What does an office supply store sell?
Aside from buildings and IT support, if a business uses it, an office supply store will have it:
- Stationary
- Furniture
- Technology products including computers, copiers, ink cartridges, phone systems
- Presentation equipment including screens, market boards, and projectors
- Bulk snacks including coffee, cups, and other break room products
- Cleaning supplies
In addition, retail stores offer services including printing, shipping, and ink cartridge refilling. Normally, nationwide chains will sell large office equipment like printers and copiers, but do not offer service or leases. Local stores will use leasing and servicing of equipment as the core of their business, offering supplies as a sideline.
Why would someone buy candy where they get their office products?
Most stores offer shipping directly to the business, allowing customers to put all their purchases on a single account. This is convenient for places that aren’t large enough to warrant paying for a coffee or snack service.
Is it better to buy or lease office equipment?
In general, it is best to buy a piece of equipment that doesn’t advance in technology regularly, since it can still be used long after it has been paid for. On the other hand, equipment that rapidly improves will probably be replaced after it has been paid off to improve productivity, often making a lease make more sense. For example, typewriter development has all but stopped, so there isn’t any real benefit to rapid equipment turnover. On the other hand, copiers are constantly increasing in print speed and adding features to improve productivity, making equipment updates attractive.
However, for most businesses the best decision will depend on tax write-offs: The credit for depreciation of a purchased piece of equipment may be better than those for leasing expenses, or vice versa.
Who sells office supplies?
Office Depot, Office Max, and Staples are by far the largest suppliers of office supplies. All three offer similar supplies and service, so most offices choose determine based on who has the closest retail location. However, Office Depot and Office Max offer free shipping on orders over $50, and Staples does the same on orders over $75, making it easy to comparison shop between each retailer for large orders over the Internet.
NewEgg, once just a supplier of computer components for hobbyists, has expanded to include almost everything electronics-related found in an office. They were one of the first businesses to pioneer local-area warehouses, allowing for quick shipping of even the most obscure replacement park. This has helped push competitors to adapt a similar distribution model.
See Jane Work and Sorting With Style are part of a new trend toward more decorative office supplies. Unlike office toys of the past, the products they sell are designed for work use. They aren’t full service dealers, but for individuals given a supply budget, these can be a good alternative to the traditional office supply store.