I run a small business and regularly buy ink, printer paper, manila folders, envelopes, paper clips, pens, etc in bulk. When I do I usually order from one of the office supply super stores. In case you have never bothered to check these out, they are done in a warehouse fashion, with long, tall aisles packed with office goodness that is a geeky organizers dream.
Today I received my catalog, chock full of things folks need for their office, and a selection of coupons in the center. I turned to these coupons, hoping to find the perfect deal on one of the items I use on a regular basis. I was astounded. Laundry detergent, red Solo cups, candy, Swiffers, paper towels, dish washer detergent, peanuts, beef jerky, more snack food, a juicer, and similar items was the selection I found. The front fifteen pages were office supplies, the remaining twenty five pages were the things mentioned above. And if I ordered more than $100 or $150 I could get a free duffel bag or roadside emergency kit.
To whom are they trying to sell this? I realize that businesses have to clean, and snack, but this was a bit of an overkill. And when comparing prices to Wal-Mart and other warehouse stores, the prices are not any better, and often worse. I thought the concept was to save business, especially small businesses, money. Office super stores buy specialty items in bulk, for thousands of stores worldwide, and is a multi-billion dollar industry. This catalog does not fit what they should be.
As a small business owner I want bargains, deals, and coupons on the items I use for business. Not the things I can go to Sams Club or BJs to buy. You want to save me money? Then give me cash back, or discounts... not groceries. These office supply super stores seem to have lost their way, and I hope one day they can go back to basics.
