Abstract: Focuses on Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI). Features of the Seattle, Washington flagship store of the United States outdoor gear retailer; REI's formation as a consumer cooperative; Expected 1998 sales and profit margin; Chief executive Wally Smith's approach to management of the company; Popularity of REI's Web site, and success of their mail-order sales; Plans for overseas expansion.

　　Subjects: SPORTING goods industry; STORES, Retail; CONSUMER cooperatives; MANAGEMENT; CHAIN stores; WASHINGTON (State); SEATTLE (Wash.); UNITED States; RECREATIONAL Equipment Inc.; Sporting and Athletic Goods Manufacturing; Sporting Goods Stores