Is Staples going out of business? While the office supply giant is not closing completely, recent Staples store closures and reports of Staples closing locations have raised questions.
In Connecticut alone, one of two Norwalk stores will shut on August 8, reducing the state’s count to 21. Nationwide, Staples still runs about 860 stores, but the trend is clear: physical retail is shrinking fast.
Data from Coresight Research shows that U.S. brick-and-mortar store closures could hit 15,000, up 66% from last year, as e-commerce and cost pressures reshape retail. So, why is Staples closing stores, and what does the future of Staples stores look like? Let us find out.
Key Takeaways
- Staples is not going out of business but is closing underperforming stores as part of a strategic shift.
- Staples store closures are driven by e-commerce growth, remote work trends, and cost optimisation.
- Shoppers can still access Staples products through online ordering, delivery, and in-store pickup despite fewer physical locations.
- The future of Staples stores lies in B2B services, tech solutions, and a stronger digital presence rather than large retail footprints.
What Is Staples?
Staples is a leading American retailer and business solutions provider specialising in office supplies, technology products, and printing services.
Founded in 1986, it transformed the office supply industry with its superstore concept. Today, Staples focuses on e-commerce, B2B services, and managed IT solutions, while reducing its physical store footprint to adapt to the rise of online shopping and remote work trends.
Staples At a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Staples Inc. |
| Industry | Retail & B2B Services (Office Supplies, Technology Solutions, Printing) |
| Founded | 1986 |
| Founders | Thomas G. Stemberg, Leo Kahn |
| Headquarters | Framingham, Massachusetts, USA |
| Current CEO | J. Alexander (Sandy) Douglas Jr. |
| Ownership | Private (acquired by Sycamore Partners in 2017) |
| Number of Stores | 860 in the U.S. |
| Number of Employees | Approx. 75,000 globally |
| Annual Revenue | Estimated $8–9 billion |
| Core Offerings | Office supplies, furniture, tech products, printing, shipping, IT services |
| Primary Market | United States, with operations in Canada and online sales globally |
| Key Competitors | Office Depot, OfficeMax, Amazon, Walmart |
| Recent Trends | Downsizing retail locations, increasing online presence, focusing on B2B |
Is Staples Really Shutting Down?
Staples is not going out of business, but its significant downsizing has created confusion. The retailer has closed hundreds of stores over the years, focusing instead on e-commerce, delivery, and B2B services.
This strategic shift reflects broader changes in retail, not an imminent collapse.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Status of Staples | Still operational with about 860 U.S. stores and a growing online business. |
| Why Closures Are Happening | To cut costs, improve efficiency, and shift resources to digital and business service offerings. |
| Scale of Downsizing | From 1,500+ stores in the early 2000s to around 860 today, a 40%+ footprint reduction. |
| Recent Examples | Multiple closures, including stores in Connecticut and other U.S. regions with low in-store traffic. |
| Future Direction | Expanding online sales, managed IT services, subscription-based delivery, and corporate procurement solutions. |
| Impact on Customers | Fewer retail options but more convenience via same-day delivery, online deals, and business account features. |
Why Is Staples Closing Stores?
Staples is streamlining its operations to adapt to a retail landscape dominated by online shopping and remote work trends. These forces have cut demand for in-person office supply shopping, prompting the closure of underperforming locations.
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Declining Store Traffic | Customers prefer shopping online for convenience and competitive pricing, reducing the need for large stores. |
| Remote Work Trend | Widespread remote work means fewer businesses need bulk office supplies for physical offices. |
| Fierce Online Competition | Amazon and Walmart dominate online office supply sales, making it harder for brick-and-mortar retailers. |
| Cost-Cutting Strategy | Closing low-performing locations helps free resources for profitable ventures like tech services and delivery. |
See Also: Is Wilson Jones Still in Business? The Legacy and Evolution of an Iconic Office Supply Brand
Why The Shutdown Rumours?
Despite being financially stable, Staples’ strategy has created a perception of decline. Here is why the rumours keep spreading:
| Rumour Driver | Reason |
|---|---|
| Closure Headlines | Media often reports closures without context, making downsizing look like a total exit from the market. |
| Store Count Reduction | Dropping from over 1,500 stores to 860 suggests collapse, even though it is a controlled strategy. |
| Industry Struggles | Competitors like Office Depot face similar pressures, reinforcing the belief that the sector is dying. |
| Business Model Shift | The move to B2B services makes consumers assume Staples is abandoning retail altogether. |
What Do the Staples Store Closures Mean for Shoppers?
For customers, Staples’ store closures bring both challenges and benefits.
While fewer physical locations may limit in-store convenience, Staples is investing heavily in digital solutions and delivery services to maintain accessibility and value for shoppers.
| Impact | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Fewer Physical Stores | In some regions, customers will have to travel farther to find a Staples store or rely on online options. |
| Improved Online Services | Expanded e-commerce platform with same-day delivery and store pickup options in select areas. |
| Better Deals Online | Exclusive online discounts and business subscription plans for frequent buyers. |
| Printing & Tech Services | In-store services remain available at major hubs, with more solutions now offered remotely for businesses. |
| Returns and Exchanges | Easier online return process, but fewer drop-off points in areas with multiple closures. |
What Products Does Staples Still Offer?
Despite downsizing its physical stores, Staples continues to provide a wide range of products and services, both in-store and online.
The company has expanded beyond traditional office supplies, offering solutions for businesses, schools, and home offices. Here is an overview:
| Category | Examples of Products & Services |
|---|---|
| Office Supplies | Pens, paper, folders, binders, sticky notes, planners, staplers. |
| Technology and Electronics | Laptops, desktops, printers, monitors, headphones, storage devices, chargers. |
| Printing and Copy Services | Custom business cards, flyers, posters, banners, promotional materials, and document binding. |
| Furniture and Workspace | Office chairs, desks, ergonomic accessories, filing cabinets, workstations. |
| Cleaning and Breakroom | Cleaning products, paper towels, snacks, coffee, beverages, and breakroom essentials. |
| School Supplies | Backpacks, notebooks, calculators, art supplies, educational materials. |
| Shipping and Mailing | Packing materials, shipping boxes, envelopes, labels, and access to shipping services like UPS. |
| Tech Services | Computer repair, IT support, software installation, managed services for businesses. |
Staples vs Other Key Competitors
Staples operates in a highly competitive retail and B2B space, contending with both traditional office supply chains and online giants.
While Staples has shifted focus to B2B services and e-commerce, its competitors have taken similar paths, leading to an increasingly digital-driven market. Here is how Staples stacks up:
| Feature | Staples | Office Depot/OfficeMax | Amazon | Walmart |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Office supplies, printing, B2B services, and tech solutions | Office supplies, tech, printing services | Massive marketplace for all product categories, including office supplies | General retail with an office supply section |
| Store Count (US) | 860 | 1,000 (combined Office Depot and OfficeMax) | No physical retail for office supplies, fully online | 4,600+ |
| E-Commerce Strength | Strong, with business accounts and subscription options | Strong online presence, similar to Staples | Dominates e-commerce with the fastest delivery and the widest product range | Competitive online presence but not specialised |
| Business Services | Managed IT services, print and marketing solutions, and delivery subscriptions | Business solutions, tech support, print services | Limited – relies on third-party sellers, lacks direct IT or print service | Minimal B2B solutions; focus on general consumer products |
| Pricing Strategy | Competitive with frequent online discounts and bulk purchase deals | Similar pricing structure; frequent deals and loyalty programs | Highly competitive due to the third-party marketplace and scale | Generally low prices but limited to specialised office supplies |
| Customer Experience | In-store help, print and tech support, same-day delivery in some areas | Similar services but slightly smaller range than Staples | Convenience-driven, fast delivery, but lacks personalised in-store service | Convenience of one-stop shopping for multiple categories |
| Key Differentiator | Strong focus on B2B partnerships and corporate procurement programs | Wider physical presence but slightly weaker in B2B solutions | Unmatched scale and logistics network | Low prices and convenience for general retail needs |
Staples’ biggest strength lies in business-focused services and in-store support, which Amazon and Walmart cannot match.
However, for individual consumers, online giants like Amazon often win on price and speed, and Walmart on convenience. Staples’ survival strategy hinges on doubling down on B2B services while keeping its digital platform competitive.
The Future of Staples Stores
Staples’ future lies in adapting to a digital-first, service-oriented model rather than relying on traditional big-box retail.
The company is not planning a full exit but will likely continue shrinking its physical footprint while strengthening its online and B2B presence.
Key elements of Staples’ long-term strategy focus on building an ecosystem for businesses, from office supplies to managed IT services.
What Is Next for Staples?
| Focus Area | Details |
|---|---|
| E-Commerce Expansion | Staples will continue investing in online platforms with subscription models, bulk deals, and faster delivery. |
| Business-to-Business (B2B) Growth | Increasing reliance on corporate contracts, managed IT services, and procurement solutions for SMBs and enterprises. |
| Store Optimisation | Remaining physical stores will focus on high-demand urban areas and act as service hubs for print, tech, and pickup. |
| Technology Services | Greater emphasis on IT support, device repair, and software solutions for businesses operating remotely. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Eco-friendly products, recycling programs, and green office solutions to attract environmentally conscious buyers. |
| Strategic Partnerships | Collaborations with logistics providers, tech brands, and educational institutions to expand their customer base. |
Where Can You Find Staples Products Today?
Even with many physical stores closing, Staples products remain widely accessible through several convenient channels. Here is where you can find them:
| Channel | Details |
|---|---|
| Staples Online Store | The primary source for the full range of office supplies, tech products, and business services at Staples.com. Offers same-day delivery and in-store pickup in select areas. |
| Staples App | Available for iOS and Android, providing mobile access to deals, business accounts, and delivery tracking. |
| Marketplace Platforms | Staples products are sold via Amazon, Walmart.com, and other marketplaces, often fulfilled by Staples or third-party sellers. |
| Remaining Retail Stores | About 860 Staples stores still operate across the U.S., mainly in major metro areas and high-demand regions. |
| B2B Delivery Programs | Staples Advantage for businesses offers scheduled deliveries, subscription services, and dedicated account management. |
| Partner Locations | Some Staples services (e.g., printing and shipping) are available through collaborations with UPS and other partners. |
How Relevant Is Staples Today?
Despite the rumours and steady stream of store closures, Staples remains a significant player in the office supply and business solutions market.
Its relevance has shifted from being a big-box retail powerhouse to a service-driven, B2B-focused brand that leverages digital platforms to stay competitive.
| Aspect | Current Relevance |
|---|---|
| Consumer Market | Still relevant for home office needs and school supplies, though competition from Amazon and Walmart is strong. |
| Business Market | Highly relevant, as Staples provides managed print services, bulk supply solutions, and IT support for SMBs and enterprises. |
| E-Commerce Strength | Staples.com and its mobile app offer fast delivery, subscription services, and business-focused features, keeping the brand competitive online. |
| In-Store Relevance | Declining, with fewer than 900 stores remaining. Physical locations now serve primarily as print hubs and pickup points. |
| Service Innovation | Expanding tech support, managed IT services, and subscription-based delivery models for businesses, aligning with market trends. |
| Brand Recognition | Still strong after nearly four decades, it maintains trust among both individual consumers and corporate buyers. |
Staples may no longer dominate retail aisles as it once did, but its strategic pivot toward digital commerce and business services ensures the brand remains relevant, particularly for organisations seeking comprehensive office solutions.
Best Alternatives to Staples
With Staples closing multiple locations, many shoppers and businesses are asking: Where else can I find reliable office supplies and services? Fortunately, the market offers plenty of alternatives that provide competitive pricing, delivery options, and specialised services.
Whether you need basic school supplies, bulk business orders, or tech solutions, these retailers can fill the gap left by Staples.
Here is a detailed comparison of the top alternatives and what makes each one stand out:
| Retailer | Product Range | Services Offered | Pricing | Delivery & Pickup | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Office Depot/OfficeMax | Office supplies, tech products, and furniture | Printing, tech support, and business solutions | Competitive | Same-day delivery in select locations, and curbside pickup | Businesses needing similar services to Staples |
| Amazon | Extensive office supplies, tech, furniture, and cleaning products | None directly (relies on third-party sellers) | Highly competitive | Same-day or next-day delivery for Prime members | Convenience seekers and bulk online shoppers |
| Walmart | Office, school supplies, electronics, and breakroom items | Basic printing in some stores | Low pricing | Pickup and same-day delivery in many areas | Budget-conscious buyers and one-stop shopping |
| Target | Home office, school supplies, tech accessories | Limited print services | Moderate | Same-day delivery via Shipt and curbside pickup | Home office and family needs |
| Best Buy | Tech products, office electronics | Geek Squad tech support, device protection | Moderate to high | Fast shipping, in-store pickup | Tech-focused businesses and individuals |
| Quill | Office supplies, cleaning, breakroom essentials | B2B account services, bulk order discounts | Competitive | Scheduled business deliveries | Small to medium businesses |
| Costco | Office supplies, electronics, furniture (bulk) | None beyond bulk purchase | Low per unit | Delivery available (membership required) | Businesses seeking bulk deals at low cost |
Conclusion
Staples is not going out of business, but it is transforming. Store closures reflect a strategic pivot to online sales, B2B services, and technology solutions rather than a full shutdown.
For shoppers, this means fewer physical stores but better digital convenience and delivery options. And if Staples is not accessible, strong alternatives like Office Depot, Amazon, and Walmart ensure you will never run out of office essentials.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Did Staples Close Down?
Staples has not closed down entirely. The company closed underperforming stores to cut costs and focus on e-commerce, B2B services, and managed IT solutions. This strategy aligns with shifting consumer habits and the rise of remote work.
What Has Happened to Staples?
Staples transitioned from being a big-box retail leader to a digital-first, service-driven brand. While its physical presence has shrunk from over 1,500 stores to about 860 in the U.S., it continues to grow through online sales and corporate solutions.
Is Staples Going Out of Business?
No. Staples remains operational and profitable, focusing on digital platforms, subscription services, and business solutions rather than heavy reliance on brick-and-mortar stores.
Can I Still Shop at Staples?
Yes. You can shop online, through the mobile app, and at the remaining 860 physical stores across the U.S. Many locations also offer same-day pickup and delivery options.
What Are the Best Alternatives to Staples?
Top alternatives include Office Depot/OfficeMax, Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Quill, and Costco, each offering different strengths such as fast delivery, bulk purchasing, and tech services.
Why Are So Many Stores Closing?
Retail closures are driven by e-commerce growth, shifting consumer habits, and cost pressures. Many shoppers prefer online convenience, forcing traditional retailers to downsize physical locations.
Will I Still Be Able to Shop In-Store for Office Supplies?
Yes, but expect fewer large stores and more emphasis on click-and-collect options. Many brands now combine online convenience with in-store service points.
Where Can I Buy Office Supplies Now?
You can buy office supplies online from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Quill, or visit physical stores like Office Depot and Costco for bulk purchases.
Is Remote Work the Reason Stores Are Closing?
Partly. Remote and hybrid work models have reduced the need for businesses to stock up on traditional office supplies, which once drove sales for large retailers.
Are Printing and Copy Services Still Available?
Yes. Many remaining office supply stores offer printing services, and online platforms allow customers to upload files for delivery or in-store pickup.
