Mountain Equipment Co-op is a Canadian co-op that started the MEC outdoor gear retail brand. The MEC brand name, assets and store leases were purchased by the American private investment firm Kingswood Capital Management’s subsidiary MEC Canada in October 2020. Mountain Equipment Co-Op was formed as a Canadian consumers’ co-operative to sell outdoor recreation gear and clothing exclusively to its members. Mountain Equipment Co-Op was notable for its commitment to environmental protection and other causes. As a co-op, Mountain Equipment Co-Op sold only to customers who held a lifetime membership, which was technically a share of the co-op. MEC is Canada’s largest supplier of outdoor equipment. Following its founding in Vancouver, British Columbia in 1971, MEC expanded across Canada and grew to operate stores in 20 cities. Once catering to mountaineers and climbers, MEC once targeted a broader, more urban clientele, having added more clothing as well as cycling and yoga supplies.