When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store
Why Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store offers a unique and exclusive shopping experience for invited community members, providing access to premium outdoor apparel, footwear, accessories, and gear from renowned brands including Columbia, Mountain Hardwear, SOREL, and prAna. What makes this store a great place to meet up with friends is not only the opportunity to shop top-quality products at discounts of up to 40% off retail prices but also the welcoming and community-focused atmosphere. Located at 32111 Union Landing Blvd, Union City, CA, it operates with convenient hours, Monday through Sunday, accommodating different schedules. The store hosts special events and programs such as Senior shopping days, discounts for military, veterans, first responders, and employees of neighboring businesses, which foster community ties and provide shared interests for visitors. Additionally, seasonal events like National/State Park Pass Access, Summer Camp Access, and a School Supply Drive encourage community participation and engagement beyond shopping. The store’s inclusivity combined with an extensive selection of outdoor gear makes it a perfect spot for friends with a shared passion for outdoor activities and adventure to gather, shop, and enjoy quality time together.
Here's what people think of Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store
As of recent, Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store holds a 4.5-star rating based on 4299 reviews.
User reviews highlight a positive overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 4,299 reviews, reflecting widespread customer satisfaction with the Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store. Positive feedback often praises the store for its excellent discounts and variety of products from multiple respected outdoor brands, which offers significant value to shoppers. Many customers appreciate the community-inclusion efforts such as special access days for seniors, military, and first responders, which enhance the shopping experience by creating an inviting environment. The convenient location and accommodating hours also receive commendations, making it easier for shoppers to plan visits. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional overcrowding during peak times and the challenge of managing high customer volume, which can affect the shopping experience. A few users also suggest that invitations to shop are somewhat restrictive, as access is by invitation only through community programs, which can be limiting for some interested shoppers. Overall, however, the reviews indicate that the Columbia Sportswear Employee Store successfully balances exclusivity with accessibility, delivering strong value and community connection, making it a favored destination for outdoor enthusiasts and community members alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Witchman
Their brand is iconic, but their customer service is less than stellar. I received a Columbia "flex fit" ball cap as a gift and it's too tight. Their flex fit is more like tourniquet fit. The size is L/XL. Wait, what?!? It is NOT adjustable! Make an XL for Pete's sake. Or maybe a XL/XXL OR L/XL/XXL. I called their customer service and she had to check with someone. She asked for the order number, which I emailed. They told me to hit the bricks, because it was purchased through a third party. You think a company with a gross profit of 1.69 billion dollars in 2024 would stand behind their products. Maybe it's 1.49 - 1.89 billion? LOL. I was underwhelmed and will be buying an adjustable hat from another company.
lilac C
Great store with a clean and well-organized environment. The service was excellent—despite the long line, the staff worked efficiently to assist customers and resolve issues quickly. They offer a wide variety of products, making it a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience.
James M
Super friendly employees and amazing prices. If you can actually get in here, this is the place to buy Columbia Sportswear. If they don't have it, order it online from the kiosks inside the store and have it delivered to your house, for the same price as it would be if it was in the store. Also remember to keep your pass in, as it has a code good for employee store pricing on the standard website for one time. Edit May 2025: National and State Parks passholders can now get through the 31st of August by showing their National or State park pass at the entry desk. So the next few months is a great time to come here!! The store has undergone a redesign as of late 2024, sections have been moved around and you downtown employees what shoes you like to try on, and they go in the back and get them. It takes a little longer to try on and choose shoes as a result, so make sure budget extra time when you come here looking for footwear. Other than that, the new back section is pretty cool and they have some cool stuff on display that kind of reminded me of a Columbia Sportswear Museum. Edit: I was just here on May 25 2022 and they still have a great selection of stuff and a super helpful staff. The whole Camp Columbia display they have when you enter is also really cool. Edit: I was here again in December 2023 and like always, AWESOME selection of stuff and friendly staff. This is by far the best collection of Columbia gear you will find anywhere. Also, of note: if they don't have it in stock at the employee store but it's on stock on the website you can buy it from the website at one of the in-store kiosks and you'll get employee store pricing (though you'll have to pay for shipping).
Patricia Corbett-Kline
Received a employee pass. A little different selection than the outlet store close to us. Needed a pair of pants not available in the store. Chris was great at describing the products available in the store and how to order online and have the desired items shipped to your home. Melissa was great as well. She seemed to be everywhere , helping us on at least 3 occasions, and helping us check out! Excellent customer service and product selection (Columbia, Prana, + two more lines). Including shoes and accessories.
Sung Cho
Columbia employee store has the latest gear from all of their family of brands. Columbia, Sorel, Prana, Mountain Hardwear. Most items are 40% off and sometimes they run additional discount promotions. They just recently remodeled and the interior feels much more premium and organized. My family and I enjoy visiting a few times a year. You will need a guest pass and can bring up to 5 people on one pass. Local organizations and memberships often offer guest passes throughout the year. For example Kaiser employees or AAA members. So you should look and see if you can get access a few times a year! I like that they are friendly with the passes and number of non family guests.
How to reach Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store
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Why Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store with your friends? Because it offers a unique blend of exclusive shopping, community engagement, and a welcoming environment perfect for a group meetup. The store is not just a retail outlet; it’s a space where outdoor enthusiasts and families can discover high-quality gear and apparel from trusted brands like Columbia, Mountain Hardwear, SOREL, and prAna at discounts reaching up to 40%. This makes the experience together not only fun but also economical. Sharing the hunt for the best items and the joy of scoring great deals becomes a memorable event in itself, fostering camaraderie among friends or family. Beyond shopping, the store encourages group participation in special events such as school supply drives and community-focused shopping days, strengthening the bond through shared activities and social causes. Conveniently located in Union City, the store hours are generous, extending into the evening on weekends, which accommodates various schedules and allows for relaxed, unhurried gatherings. Parking is ample and entry is straightforward, ensuring your group’s day runs smoothly from start to finish.
What activities can you enjoy together at the Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store? Shopping is naturally the primary activity, but it’s far from ordinary. The store offers access to the latest seasonal collections, including outdoor apparel, footwear, accessories, and gear ideal for all ages and interests. Friends can try on gear for upcoming hiking trips, camping adventures, or winter sports, turning shopping into a fun, interactive group expedition. The store also hosts several community-oriented events perfect for gathering your group. For instance, during July, participants can bring school supplies to donate and gain exclusive access, aligning shopping with a meaningful cause. Such initiatives enhance your meetup by incorporating giving back to the community. Additionally, the store offers special days for seniors, real estate professionals, military veterans, first responders, and local employees, which can be a point of interest for mixed groups with varied backgrounds. Bringing friends or family here means more than shopping; it’s sharing an experience enriched with seasonal events and exclusive offers that resonate with everyone in the group.
Why is the Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store an ideal spot for group meetups? First, the generous store hours—from 10am to 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 10am to 8pm on other days—provide flexibility for planning your meetup at convenient times, even after work or on weekends. The location in Union Landing provides easy accessibility with plentiful parking and clear directions, reducing stress for large group arrivals. The atmosphere inside encourages leisurely browsing with plenty of room for groups to split up and regroup without feeling rushed or cramped. Another compelling reason is the store’s exclusive discounts. Getting up to 40% off retail prices means your group can shop comfortably without worrying about breaking the budget, making it the perfect occasion for friends or family who like to hunt for deals together. The variety of brands and items caters to diverse interests and ages, so whether some of you are looking for winter boots, others for hiking clothes or casual wear, everyone finds something. Finally, the store's community-driven events add an enriching social element to your meetup, allowing the group to bond over shared causes or interest-based shopping days.
How does the Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store support community engagement during your visit? This store stands out not just for its products but for its commitment to community involvement. During July, for example, shoppers who donate school supplies receive exclusive access, and these supplies are donated to the local Union City Family Center. This creates an opportunity for groups to contribute positively while enjoying a shopping outing. The store also offers year-round special shopping days for military veterans, first responders, seniors over 65, and real estate professionals, demonstrating appreciation for these groups and inviting them to enjoy community recognition. Group meetups that include members eligible for these privileges can take advantage of this access, making the shopping experience even more rewarding. Additionally, summer camp families and national/state park pass holders enjoy seasonal access, connecting the shopping experience with outdoor and educational pursuits. These community-centric activities foster a sense of purpose and belonging, transforming a group shopping trip into an event with social and charitable significance.
What makes the store’s product range ideal for group shopping? Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store carries a wide selection of high-quality products from its flagship brand and subsidiaries like Mountain Hardwear, SOREL, and prAna, ensuring variety and style for everyone. Whether your group consists of avid hikers, casual walkers, or fashion-conscious shoppers, the store meets your needs with a comprehensive range of outdoor apparel, technical gear, durable footwear, and functional accessories. This diversity caters to an array of outdoor activities and lifestyle preferences, enhancing the group experience by giving everyone something to get excited about buying. You may discover the latest in weather-resistant jackets, cozy winter boots, moisture-wicking shirts, or fashionable yet practical backpacks. This broad spectrum of merchandise helps groups with varied tastes shop together harmoniously, where each member can focus on their interests without compromise. Moreover, the high discount rates make it easier for everyone in the group to purchase quality gear that supports their lifestyle or upcoming adventures, turning the store into a one-stop destination for group needs.
How does the store accommodate groups and ensure a smooth visit? The store is designed not only for individual shoppers but also with group visits in mind. Its location at 32111 Union Landing Blvd in Union City benefits from easy road access and a spacious parking area, perfect for multiple cars arriving simultaneously. The store’s hours are generous, open until 9 pm on weekends, which means groups can plan meetups timing them for after work or school. The best entrance for group access is clearly marked as Dyer Street, helping coordination. Furthermore, the store provides periodic invitations to shop to groups via organizational sign-ups, facilitating planned group events and larger meetups. Within the store, there is ample space to browse comfortably together or split up if preferred, making the shopping process enjoyable rather than rushed or chaotic. The presence of events, donation drives, and special shopping days creates a calendar of opportunities for groups to gather and participate in activities beyond just buying products, encouraging a sense of community and shared enjoyment during visits.
What unique benefits do special events at the Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store offer for group meetups? Special events throughout the year enhance the shopping experience, especially when visiting as a group. For example, the school supply drive held every July invites groups to donate required items, and in return, donors gain exclusive access privileges for themselves and up to four guests. This creates an excellent occasion for families or friend groups to connect socially while supporting a charitable cause. Other events include senior shopping days every Tuesday, which provide a quiet, senior-friendly time to shop in groups. Military personnel, veterans, and first responders benefit from year-round access, enabling groups with these members to plan visits with privileged access. Seasonal offers for summer camp families and national/state park pass holders also create a beautiful synergy between the outdoor lifestyle and community shopping. These events provide meaningful reasons to meet beyond simply shopping—enabling your group to bond over shared experiences, values, and interests while enjoying exclusive discounts.
Why is the Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store rated so highly by visitors? The store enjoys a strong 4.5-star rating from nearly 4,300 reviews, indicating widespread customer satisfaction. Shoppers frequently praise the quality and variety of products, the appealing discounts, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff who enhance the overall shopping experience. Many reviews highlight the store’s clean layout and how the available products meet all their outdoor apparel and gear needs. The community-focused events that the store organizes also resonate well with shoppers who appreciate the opportunity to contribute to local causes and shop with others from their networks or families. Furthermore, the store’s convenient location with easy parking and moderate crowd levels during extended hours make it a pleasant place to visit. Taken together, these factors contribute to its reputation as not only a great place to shop but an excellent venue for gathering with friends or family for a fulfilling outing.
How do you maximize your group visit to Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store? Planning ahead is key. Coordinate with your group to pick a time that suits everyone, considering the store’s extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays, which can accommodate most schedules. Check the store’s calendar for special events or community drives that align with your group’s interests to add extra value to the meetup. Prepare any required proof for eligibility if your group includes members who qualify for special access such as summer camp families or veterans. Use the best entrance at Dyer Street and take advantage of the ample parking to avoid any arrival delays. Once inside, encourage members to explore different sections according to their interests, and regroup to share finds or plan future outdoor adventures together. Finally, if your group enjoys combining experiences, consider linking your visit to nearby restaurants or parks to extend the meetup beyond shopping, creating a full day of social and recreational fun.
In summary, the Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store is much more than a discount outlet; it’s a vibrant community hub perfect for social gatherings centered on quality outdoor gear and clothing. The variety, exclusive prices, community engagement, and flexible hours tailor the experience to group preferences, making your meetup both purposeful and pleasurable. Whether planning a casual shopping day with friends, a family outing, or an event tied to seasonal activities and local causes, this store provides the ideal environment to rally together, shop smart, and strengthen bonds.