Winter that wasnt constrains REI profits

SEATTLE, WA (BRAIN)REI this week reported an 8.4 percent jump in annual sales for 2011, to $1.66 billion, but operating income was down slightly, to $116.2 million from 2010s record $116.6 million. Net income was flat compared with 2010 at $30.2 million. We experienced strong sales in 2011. However, because winter weather failed to arrive, our profitability was impacted, said Brian Unmacht, REIs executive vice president. Looking ahead, our underlying strong financial position allows us to continue our growth plans and invest in ways that make it easy for customers and members to shop REI however they wishonline, on