OfficeMax launches Google Wallet

Naperville, Ill. --OfficeMax Inc. has launched new checkout terminals in more than 100 stores that harness Google Wallet to enable customers to pay, redeem coupons and reap the benefits of OfficeMax's MaxPerks Rewards loyalty program, all with a tap of their mobile phones. The chain is the first national office supply retailer to accept mobile payments through Google Wallet, which is a partnership between Google, MasterCard Worldwide, Citigroup Inc., Sprint Nextel Corp. and First Data Corp.

The new contactless payment terminals, powered by MasterCard PayPass, are available in OfficeMax stores throughout the greater New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington D.C. markets. The chain is the first office supply retailer to implement the full range of Google Wallet features – payment, coupon redemption and loyalty programs – to help customers save time and money on their in-store purchases.

“OfficeMax is interested in using the very latest technology to deliver a faster, easier and personalized in-store shopping experience for our customers, and mobile payments with Google Wallet lets us do just that," said Ryan Vero, executive VP and chief merchandising officer at OfficeMax. "It's one of many recent mobile programs we've rolled out to help provide customers with a truly customized and engaging shopping experience."

In 2009 and 2010, OfficeMax launched a mobile shopping app and mobile-friendly web site that allow customers to view and purchase office supplies, find a store, check weekly ads and receive personalized deals through its loyalty program. With the recent launch of the OfficeMax ImPress Mobile Print Center app, available for iPhone and Android, OfficeMax offers full-service mobile printing via cloud printing technology.

The chain also reaches customers with offers and updates through its SMS text alerts program.