Staples Unveils the M by Staples(TM) Brand to Inspire Creativity and Style in the Workplace

Staples, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPLS), today announced its newest brand, the M by Staples™ collection. Standing for "My Style. My Way.,” the collection of high-end journals, notebooks, file folders, stationery, and business essentials such as binder clips, magnets and push pins stand out with quality and unexpected details. Available in a variety of colors and patterns, the products are aimed to connect with customers on an emotional level and stand out with personality and style. "Our vision in developing the M by Staples brand is to make it easy for more self-expression in the workplace,” said Petter Knutrud, senior vice president of merchandising for Staples. "Our customers pay attention to the details of the products they use every day, and the M by Staples collection offers quality products set apart from traditional office supply offerings that reflect personal styles at a great value.” Uniquely merchandised at the front of the store, the M by Staples collection includes: M by Staples Fall Classic Collection Traditional style meets modern versatility. This timeless collection features rich, classic designs and patterns, including quilted- and soft-leather journals and accessories, with houndstooth, striped and plaid patterns. Available in Staples stores and select styles on mbystaples.com. ($1.49 to $39.99) (NEW!) M by Staples Spring Collection Joining the M by Staples family is a collection featuring stylish, eye-catching designs, including bright colors, patent leather and floral, striped and polka dot patterns. Available Spring 2008 only and in select Staples stores. ($1.49 to $14.99) (NEW!) M by Staples File Folders Joining the M by Staples family is a lively assortment of premium heavyweight file folders that add personality and style to any workspace. With a variety of patterns and colors to choose from, including paisley, plaids, stripes, colorful dots and contemporary floral patterns, getting organized in style is easier than ever. Available in Staples stores and on mbystaples.com. (12 folders/ pack $6.99) (NEW!) M by Staples Business Essentials Joining the M by Staples family is a unique spin on traditional paper clips, binder clips, push pins and magnets. With interesting shapes, patterns and designs, combined with fun colors, these products help anyone express themselves with personality. Available in Staples stores and select styles on mbystaples.com. ($3.99 to $6.99) (NEW!) M by Staples Stationery From mix and match and boxed stationery to monogrammed notecards, the new M by Staples stationery collection offers sophisticated designs and colors. For an elegant look, choose from ivory cotton paper with embossed monogram or folded and flat styles with a variety of patterns and colors. Also available on mbystaples.com, personalize and customize a look with easy-to-follow directions for custom invites and thank you cards. Available in Staples stores. ($9.99 to $12.99) (NEW!) M by Staples Travel and Business Cases For traveling across the country or across the parking lot, M by Staples travel and business cases help anyone be their productive best. The useful features keep everything in easy reach. And the materials and designs mirror each individual’s attention to detail and style. Available Spring 2008 only and in select Staples stores. ($99.00 to $149.00) Staples spent two years developing the M by Staples collection through extensive customer and product research, and a dedicated design and development team. In addition, according to the M by Staples national survey (see related release, "In Tough Economic Times Small Investments Can Deliver Big Career Gains,” May 12, 2008), more than half (55 percent) of workers reported that having stylish office supplies gets them noticed in the workplace. To locate M by Staples products at Staples stores, see what’s new in the collection, or download stationery templates, visit www.mbystaples.com. About Staples Staples, Inc. invented the office superstore concept in 1986 and today is the world's largest office products company. With 76,000 talented associates, the company is committed to making it easy to buy a wide range of office products, including supplies, technology, furniture, and business services. With 2007 sales of $19.4 billion, Staples serves consumers and businesses ranging from home-based businesses to Fortune 500 companies in 22 countries throughout North and South America, Europe and Asia. Headquartered outside of Boston, Staples operates more than 2,000 office superstores and also serves its customers through mail order catalog, e-commerce and contract businesses. More information is available at www.staples.com.