@ jcinkits - thanks for actually taking the time to write a quality response, rather than just hating. I definitely agree they sell some shite products, mixed among some goodies. Ghost bikes look like they'll be pretty sweet. MEC has 15 stores across the country, so yes, it's definitely possible that some LBS's nearby to some MEC stores have gone under. I was saying that overall, the neighbourhoods around MEC's do quite well for outdoor gear competition. Besides the trail-building & community events (don't have time to look all those up), MEC also supports things like the Canadian Avalanche Association and land aquisition (donated $250k to protecting the Skaha Bluffs from development). Obviously, if they've got this much money to donate, then they're certainly making a profit off us shoppers, but it's nicer to see it get donated to improving the planet rather than line some CEO's pockets. I'm glad you're willing to give them a futher look, and not lump MEC in with SportChek or whoever. And the 1% for the Planet is one percent of revenue, not profit, so it's pretty damn significant. Good thing for protected spaces everywhere. Happy riding.