A new report alleges that REI uses contractors that violate labor and human rights in Southeast and East Asia and Central America.

The investigative study was done by Students for International Labor Solidarity and the Labor Center at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. The report was produced in response to complaints that were raised by workers “concerning serious and pervasive violations of labor rights in the supply chain of REI.” …

Asked to comment about the allegations in the report, a spokesperson for REI Co-op issued the following statement: “We operate a large, complex global supply chain and are deeply committed to holding all our supply partners to the highest standards of accountability. When possible, issues arise, as they sometimes do in such an intricate network, we act swiftly and decisively to address them and ensure alignment with our values and expectations. We are also engaged in advocacy efforts aimed at preventing any of these practices at a systemic level.“

The statement continued, “REI condemns all forms of worker exploitation. We believe everyone should have a working environment that is inclusive, safe, fair, and nondiscriminatory. Our goal is to extend our values into the supply chain by working with suppliers to implement industry-leading practices.” …