Staples

One of the largest office supply retailers and B2B business product suppliers in North America, with a strong omnichannel presence and a growing focus on contract B2B sales.

Staples is one of the largest office supply retailers in the world, offering a broad range of products including office supplies, technology, furniture, printing services, and facility supplies. Founded in 1986, the company operates both physical retail stores and a robust e-commerce platform, serving millions of consumers and businesses. After going private in 2017 following its acquisition by Sycamore Partners, Staples has refocused its strategy toward its higher-margin B2B business, operating under the Staples Business Advantage brand for mid-market and enterprise customers. As a major retailer and B2B supplier, Staples is a significant advertiser in its own right, investing heavily in promotional marketing, direct mail, email campaigns, loyalty programs, and digital advertising to drive both in-store and online traffic. The company also offers print and marketing services to small businesses through its in-store and online print centers, making it a service provider to marketers at the SMB level. Staples competes with Amazon Business, Office Depot/OfficeMax, and W.W. Grainger in the business supplies space. Its retail footprint, combined with its e-commerce capabilities and B2B contract business, positions it as a diversified omnichannel supplier. The company's Staples Connect retail stores have been repositioned to emphasize technology, workspace solutions, and services beyond traditional office supplies.