Outdoor recreation retail giant REI has ended its 40-year-old Experiences program, known for holding outdoors classes and wilderness trips, the company announced Wednesday. The move also means the elimination of 428 jobs associated with the program.

REI CEO Eric Artz said the outdoor gear retailer would end its Experiences unit, which offered adventure classes and trips, and lay off 428 workers.

Any customers who have Experience trips or programs booked will receive a full refund of costs paid to REI. These aren't the first layoffs REI has enacted in recent years. In January 2024, the company laid off over 300 employees. In early 2023, the company also laid off 167 people.

REI announced the closure of its Experiences division, affecting over 400 employees, as it shifts focus to core business areas.

REI Co-op is shuttering its Experiences business, effective this week. With this move, 428 employees - including 180 people in full-time roles and 248 part-time guides - will be laid off. The outdoor specialty retailer informed its employees of the decision today.

REI has been the go-to store for adventurers for decades. The company recently announced that their well-liked 'Experiences' business involving classes and tours will be shutting down.

REI Co-op, the beloved outdoor retailer, announced Wednesday that it would be closing its Experiences division. Known for providing classes, selling group travel excursions, and operating various tours for 40 years,