Origins
MEC was started in 1971 in Vancouver, British Columbia, by six climbers who got the idea from an American co-op, Recreational Equipment Incorporated (REI) in Seattle. These climbers used to buy gear at REI but had difficulties with Canadian customs and started their own co-op.
Membership
Only members of the co-op can buy or rent equipment from MEC. It costs $5 a year to join as of 2009.
Structure
MEC was founded with the idea that by joining together, climbers could enhance their purchasing power. MEC adheres to the one member, one vote rule. Every member of MEC has one vote and can use it to vote on the direction of the company and its policies.
Member Numbers
From the original six members, MEC has grown to more than 3 million members in 2009.
Patronage Shares
MEC is a not-for-profit business, not a nonprofit. After the company pays employee wages and costs to its suppliers, surplus profits are returned to its members in the form patronage shares.
