The Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) is headquarters for the worldwide NEXCOM Enterprise. Its mission is to provide authorized customers with quality goods and services at a savings and to support quality of life programs for active duty military, retirees, reservists and their families.
NEXCOM oversees six primary business programs:
- Navy Exchange (NEX) Retail Stores and Services
- Ship Stores Program
- Uniform Program Management Office
- Navy Clothing and Textile Research Facility (NCTRF)
- Navy Lodge Program
- Telecommunications Program Office
With the exception of the Ship Stores Program, the NEXCOM Enterprise conducts its operations through a federal non-appropriated funded instrumentality. As such, the command is self-supporting with all profits reinvested in Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) programs and in NEX buildings and equipment. All programs focus on the quality of life entitlements of military service members and their families.
NEXCOM is a Department of the Navy organization with an established Navy chain of command that oversees and provides direction throughout the NEXCOM Enterprise. Its corporate headquarters is comprised of a civilian Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer and Chief of Staff as well as an active duty Deputy Commander for Military Services and Command Master Chief. The bulk of NEXCOM’s workforce is comprised mainly of government non-appropriated civilians and sales associates who are also family members of active duty service personnel. This combination of military leadership and civilian business expertise enables NEXCOM to perform its unique mission for the Navy.
NEXCOM is a field activity of the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) which provides U.S. Naval Forces with quality supplies and services. A principal source of readiness for U.S. Naval Forces, NAVSUP's diverse team delivers information, materiel, services and quality of life products our Naval Forces need.
Unlike civilian retailers, NEXCOM is subject to Congressional oversight from the House Armed Services Total Force Subcommittee. There are several laws in effect that govern how military exchanges may operate in certain businesses or with certain types of merchandise. The ban on adult magazines and the regulation of tobacco and alcohol prices are examples of Congressional mandates on exchange operations. DoD instruction 1330.21 “Armed Services Exchange Regulations” (ASER) outlines procedures and guidelines for operating Armed Services Exchange.
