Staples is gearing up to expand its presence in the business-to-business services market with the launch of Staples Technology Solutions. The new portfolio offers a range of data center, print, and managed services for small businesses up to the enterprise level, according to Joe Kalinoski, vice president of finance for Staples Technology Solutions.
With an enhanced IT products catalog, Staples Technology Solutions aims to attract the same business customers targeted by solution providers. Kalinoski expressed confidence in the offerings, stating, “I think VARs that read this will be a little envious of what we have to offer here.”
The services under Staples Technology Solutions include access to certified specialists for various areas, onsite and remote server and desktop support, printer fleet management, and data center assessments. The division operates under Staples Advantage, the business-to-business arm of Staples, which was formed through the acquisitions of Corporate Express and Thrive Networks.
Staples Technology Solutions will have operations in Massachusetts and Florida, with associates in Staples Advantage offices nationwide. While the division does not carry enterprise-class servers or storage products, it can provide the necessary infrastructure to run a data center.
For SMBs with 10 to 250 employees, Staples can act as a fully managed, outsourced IT department. Jim Lippie, vice president of Staples Network Services, highlighted the company’s ability to provide a complete solution with managed IT services and onsite support.
Staples plans to utilize N-able Technologies’ managed services platform for servers and Kaseya’s platform for desktops. Despite competing with solution providers, Staples Technology Solutions also aims to collaborate with them for service implementations.
The company’s nationwide services coverage is supported by its own employees and partners, offering a “local touch, national reach” approach. While facing challenges from local providers, Staples is banking on its brand to attract customers already familiar with its offerings.
Analysts see a big opportunity for Staples in the services market, emphasizing the importance of execution. Bob Laliberte from Enterprise Strategy Group noted that partnering with Staples could provide instant credibility for smaller solution providers looking to expand their services.
Overall, Staples Technology Solutions is poised to shake up the business services landscape with its comprehensive offerings and established brand presence.