FRAMINGHAM, Mass., Mar 31, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) --

Staples, Inc. (Nasdaq: SPLS) announced today a new strategic alliance with one of the leading Swiss office products companies, Büro Schoch Direct AG. Within Switzerland, Staples and Büro Schoch Direct will work together exclusively on international accounts and collaborate to exchange best practices.

"With Staples' commitment to serving our multi-national clients across the globe, this alliance represents an opportunity for the company to serve both new and existing accounts that are looking for Staples' expertise and industry-leading service levels in the Swiss market," said Rob Vale, president of Staples Europe. "Schoch has a long and successful presence in the Swiss market and shares Staples' passion for making it easy for customers to buy office products and services. We look forward to working with the Büro Schoch Direct team."

"With a 130 year history of customer service, we have built strong capabilities," said Thomas Schoch, owner and CEO of Büro Schoch Direct. "Our new alliance with the world's largest office products company will further develop our capabilities and knowledge. We in turn will provide the local market know-how and service that will bring our shared customers sustainable added value."

The Schoch Group is a leading office products company in Switzerland, offering a full range of office and computer supplies, facility products and related services. Founded in 1882, the company has operations in Winterthur, Ohringen and Aarburg. With thousands of customers and over 100 employees, Büro Schoch Direct is a contract business that serves companies of all sizes.

About Staples

Staples is the world's largest office products company and a trusted source for office solutions. The company provides products, services and expertise in office supplies, copy & print, technology, facilities and breakroom, and furniture. Staples invented the office superstore concept in 1986 and now has annual sales of $25 billion, ranking second in the world in eCommerce sales. With 90,000 associates worldwide, Staples operates in 26 countries throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia, making it easy for businesses of all sizes, and consumers. The company is headquartered outside Boston. More information about Staples (Nasdaq: SPLS) is available at www.staples.com/media.

SOURCE: Staples, Inc.

Staples, Inc.
Owen Davis, +1-508-253-8468