Office Supply Stores Industry Overview

Excerpt from Office Supply Stores Report

The US office supply stores industry includes about 9,500 establishments with a combined annual revenue of $20 billion. Large companies include Office Depot, Staples, and OfficeMax. The industry is concentrated; the 50 largest companies account for more than 80 percent of industry revenue.

Competitive Landscape

Demand is driven by the level of business activity. The profitability of individual companies depends on effective merchandising and an efficient distribution model. Large companies have economies of scale in purchasing and the ability to stock wider ranges of products. Small companies can compete by providing superior customer service and by offering specialty items.

Products, Operations & Technology

The industry's major products include computer hardware, software and supplies (27 percent), office paper (14 percent), stationery (12 percent) and furniture (8 percent). Many larger office supplies retailers also offer technology assistance and copy and printing services.