Staples is gearing up to dive into the business-to-business services market with the launch of Staples Technology Solutions. The company’s new portfolio includes 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 expanded IT products catalog, Staples Technology Solutions aims to attract the same business customers that solution providers target. Kalinoski expressed confidence in their 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 cover a variety of areas, including access to certified specialists for Cisco Systems, Citrix, Linux, and more. They also offer onsite and remote server and desktop support, printer fleet management, data center assessments, and other services like sub-floor cleaning and 24×7 data center emergency supplies.
Operating under Staples Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples, Staples Technology Solutions was formed from the company’s acquisitions of Corporate Express and Thrive Networks. Kalinoski emphasized the logical evolution into the technology space to meet customer demands for office and technology products.
While Staples Technology Solutions does not carry enterprise-class servers or storage products, they provide enough infrastructure to run a data center. The company plans to leverage managed services platforms for servers and desktops and collaborate with solution providers for service implementations.
Staples aims to offer SMBs a fully managed outsourced IT department, catering to organizations with 10 to 250 employees. Jim Lippie, vice president of Staples Network Services, highlighted the flexibility in providing managed IT services and onsite support to clients.
Despite facing competition from solution providers, Staples Technology Solutions believes its local touch and national reach will set them apart. The company is confident in its ability to win over customers with its brand and consolidate services for small businesses.
Analysts see a big opportunity for Staples in the services market, emphasizing the importance of execution. Smaller solution providers may even consider partnering with Staples to leverage the company’s brand and credibility in the industry.