Staples puts out call for innovative products

An office supply giant is the latest retailer to offer a virtual competition for small businesses.

Staples Connect, the tech services-focused store format of Staples, is holding its first-ever Staples Connect Breakthrough Project scheduled on Feb. 8, 2021. Through Wed., Dec. 9, 2020, entrepreneurs and small businesses can submit products and services that support customers in working and learning. Staples is managing the submission process with the RangeMe online product discovery platform.

Staples Connect will choose certain products and services to advance and be presented in a virtual, face-to-face meeting with its buyers on Feb. 8. Following the event, Staples will choose a number of winning products and services to be carried in select Staples Connect and Staples stores across the country.

Online product search competitions are growing in popularity. Walmart, Alibaba, Lowe’s, and QVC and HSN have all held virtual pitch contests for entrepreneurs and SMBs in the past year.

“The goal of The Staples Connect Breakthrough Project is to develop a strong set of new, unique and innovative Working and Learning products and services to offer our customers who are experiencing a shift in the way they work and learn,” said Brian Coupland, senior VP, retail merchandising, Staples U.S. Retail. “With a strategy rooted in community and connection, The Staples Connect Breakthrough Project is just another step in helping local businesses, freelancers and entrepreneurs succeed through a lasting partnership. We’re thrilled to kick off the first inaugural event and look forward to continuing in the future.”

Staples operates more than 1,000 retail locations across the U.S.