Columbia Sportswear Named REI's 1998 Vendor Partner of the Year; Active Outdoor Brand Also Named Top Supplier In Snow Sports and Outdoorwear Categories.

PORTLAND, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 7, 1999--

REI Executives Visit Columbia HQ To Deliver Award, Thank Employees

In a special ceremony at its headquarters in Portland, Ore., Columbia Sportswear Company(R) (Nasdaq:COLM) today received from Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) the international outdoor retailer's coveted Vendor Partner of the Year Award for 1998.

Columbia was also named REI's top supplier in the Snow Sports and Outdoorwear categories, marking the first time in the specialty retailer's history that a vendor partner has won this award in more than one category.

Columbia President and CEO Tim Boyle accepted the award from REI Vice President of Merchandising Bob Korbol as Columbia employees applauded. "Our team works very hard to provide the finest products and services to REI, and we are thrilled to be acknowledged in this way," said Boyle. "The relationship we've established with REI has been invaluable in our efforts to design and develop authentic products for active outdoor enthusiasts. We are thankful for this award and for the opportunity to work with such an exceptional organization as REI."

Selected over hundreds of other companies, Columbia was evaluated by REI management and employees using six criteria: achieves measurable results, emphasizes product quality, demonstrates industry involvement and leadership, shares commitment to good corporate citizenship, provides exceptional retail support, and does that extra something to build partnerships.

"Columbia's industry-leading efforts have cultivated and reinforced a successful vendor/retailer partnership with REI, and we are proud to recognize the Company with this award," said Korbol. "It is a privilege to call Columbia Sportswear our number-one vendor partner for 1998."

A major supplier to REI for more than 17 years, this is the second time Columbia has been honored in this way. The Company earned the retailer's 1996 Vendor Partner Award in the Wintersports category.

Columbia Sportswear Company(R) is a global leader in the design, manufacture, marketing and distribution of active outdoor apparel. As one of the largest outerwear manufacturers in the world and the leading seller of skiwear in the United States, the Company has developed an international reputation across an expanding product line for quality, performance, functionality and value. To learn more about Columbia Sportswear, please visit the Company Web site at www.columbia.com.