Associated Press
Staples is speeding up the closure of about
15 of its U.S. stores and plans to close 45 stores and some delivery
businesses in Europe.
The office products company also says it
will invest more in its online and mobile efforts and will expand the
product assortment that it offers to its business customers.
Staples
Inc. said Tuesday that these moves and other actions are part of a
strategic plan to better serve customers' needs and accelerate growth.
Staples
is trying to adapt to the evolving needs of its customers. Last month
the company reported that its second-quarter net income fell as sales of
computers, software, and basic office supplies softened. Computer sales
have been pressured by the introduction to many offices of the computer
tablet and other mobile devices. Traffic is also down at Staples'
stores and Europe continues to be a weak spot.
The chain expects
the U.S. store closings will result in a charge of about $35 million in
the fourth quarter. For fiscal 2012, it anticipates about 30 U.S. store
closings. Staples also expects 30 stores will be scaled down and stores
being relocated.
Got a question or tip? Contact us at bizmojoidaho@gmail.com.