MEC Opens Their First Permanent Gear Swap Store
Over the years, Mountain Equipment Company has been running gear swaps at various locations during their larger summer and winter events (as well as their online Gear Swap marketplace which was first launched in 1997). Now, MEC looks to expand access to used gear and respond to growing member interest in resale, repair, and long-lasting equipment by opening their first permanent gear swap store.
“Canadians are looking for smarter, more practical ways to get outside without always buying new gear. Gear Swap has been part of MEC’s story for decades, and this pilot gives us an opportunity to bring trade-in, resale and repair together in one dedicated space. Kelowna is the right market to test and learn because we have a deeply engaged outdoor community here, and we’ll be listening closely to member feedback as we continue to evolve the experience.”
The pilot, which is part of a broader refresh of its Kelowna BC store ahead of its 10th anniversary, will allow members to trade in used outdoor gear for credit, shop secondhand equipment and access repair services through a dedicated 2,200 sq adjacent retail space staffed by MEC experts.
Kelowna will serve as a test-and-learn environment for the format, allowing MEC to refine operations through direct member feedback and local engagement. In the event that MEC expands the concept, future rollouts will be guided by community response and operational learnings.
To mark the reopening and anniversary milestone, MEC Kelowna will host a two-day community celebration on June 20 and 21 featuring local activations, brand partner experiences, giveaways including MEC’s “First Fifty” swag bags, and opportunities for members to connect with staff and explore the new Gear Swap Store.
