REI is one of the most responsible retail business around in my mind. They still operate as a co-op and I don't expect that to change in the foreseeable future. I haven't experienced any pushiness from their staff, which is anecdotal, but I've been a customer for years in a least 4 states.

If you anticipate shopping there more than once, or for any large item (excluding sales), then a membership is worth it. The dividend is 10% so it pays for itself after $200.