ODP leverages mobile tech to improve shopper experience

BOCA RATON, Fla. — Office Depot is getting ready to roll out omnichannel initiatives, just in time for the back-to-school season. Beginning July 28, its employees will be equipped with mobile hand-held devices across all stores, which will provide them with tools designed to enhance shoppers’ experience.

Office Depot employees will be able to use the hand-held devices to obtain instant access to extended product information, availability, customer reviews and on-the-spot checkout from anywhere in the store.

Designed to launch in tandem with the back-to-school push, the mobile technology will also allow employees to order out-of-stock items from Officedepot.com (with free shipping) via their mobile devices.

The office supply retailer is also rolling out in-store touch-screen kiosks and workstations to allow customers to research the full assortment of items available at Office Depot and order for delivery. Consumers can also download the Office Depot App to scan any barcode in-store to read reviews and additional product details, or use the company’s free Wi-Fi service in-store.

“Technology is constantly changing the way people shop,” said Christine Buscarino, VP customer experience, Office Depot. “We are continuing to refresh our services and our omni-channel offerings to ensure customers get what they need, when they need it. It’s about shopping for and receiving products at a time and in a way that is most convenient.”

Additionally, Office Depot has introduced a “Buy Online, Ready in One-Hour” program, which allows customers to purchase online and pick up at a store in one hour.