Chris Speyer leaves REI to join MEC

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (BRAIN) — Industry veteran Chris Speyer, most recently Chief Merchandising Officer at REI Co-op, is joining Canadian sporting goods retailer Mountain Equipment Company. He will officially start at MEC at the end of the month.

Speyer previously served as an executive at Accell Group, Raleigh Bicycles and World Wide Cycles. He is also the board chair of the PeopleForBikes Coalition.

“We are delighted to welcome Chris to our team at MEC,” said Peter Hlynsky, CEO of MEC. “With his extensive industry knowledge and long-standing supplier relationships, he brings expertise that will advance our teams and support our next phase of growth. Chris leads with values ​​and has a genuine passion for the outdoors, in line with MEC’s ​​core principles. His remarkable track record of working with diverse brands and growing the private label business will be instrumental in maximizing the potential of MEC’s ​​private labels and continuing to offer members premium ranges at the best value.”

Speyer grew up in Ottawa, where his mother encouraged him to be outdoors. He began his career in the industry selling skis, bikes and athletic shoes at a local store.

“Joining MEC feels like coming home,” he said. “I remember browsing through the seasonal catalog and being inspired by the amazing photos and gear. Aside from the excitement of returning to Canada, I am fascinated by how MEC stays true to its founding values. It is a beloved brand that puts great people and great products first and is a perfect fit with my values ​​and leadership style. I am so excited to be part of the team and help MEC continue to thrive and succeed!”

Founded in 1971, MEC, like REI, was a consumer cooperative until it became privately owned in 2020.