Staples Launches Staples Technology Solutions to Expand Business-to-Business Services
Staples, the Massachusetts-based company, is making a significant move into the business-to-business services market with the launch of Staples Technology Solutions. This new portfolio offers data center, print, and managed services for small businesses up to enterprise-level organizations. Joe Kalinoski, Vice President of Finance for Staples Technology Solutions, believes that solution providers may be envious of what they have to offer. With Staples’ strong relationships and competitive pricing, they aim to win the hearts of business customers.
Staples Technology Solutions provides access to certified specialists in various areas such as Cisco Systems, Citrix, and Linux. They also offer onsite and remote server and desktop support for Apple Mac, Windows, and Linux platforms. In addition, they provide printer fleet management, data center assessments, and other services including 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 developed through the company’s acquisitions of Corporate Express and Thrive Networks. By combining these entities, Staples now offers office products, print solutions, and managed print IT services. They believe they can be one of the lowest-cost providers in the market.
Staples Technology Solutions will have operations in Massachusetts and Florida, with associates in Staples Advantages offices across the country. While they don’t carry enterprise-class servers or storage products, they can provide the necessary infrastructure to run a data center.
For SMBs (small and medium-sized businesses) with 10 to 250 employees, Staples can serve as a fully managed, outsourced IT department. They offer data center and printer management solutions to all clients but can provide a complete solution for SMBs that includes managed IT services and onsite support.
Staples plans to utilize N-able Technologies’ managed services platform for servers and Kaseya’s platform for desktops. While they will compete with solution providers for the same customers, Staples Technology Solutions also intends to collaborate with solution providers for service implementations. They have a strong relationship with OnForce for partner services engagements.
Staples understands the challenge of winning services from small, local providers but believes their brand will attract customers they already serve in other capacities. Bob Laliberte, a senior analyst at Enterprise Strategy Group, suggests that smaller solution providers may even consider partnering with Staples to leverage the company’s brand and gain instant credibility.
Overall, Staples Technology Solutions aims to provide a comprehensive range of services to meet the needs of businesses while consolidating vendors and contracts. With their expertise and nationwide reach, they are confident in their ability to execute this expansion successfully.