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Staples updates its omnichannel experience

The enhancements include the ability to buy products online and pick them up in-store within hours; an easier way to pay online via Visa Checkout; new in-store kiosks; and the company's first iPad app.

September 4, 2014

Staples has announced a series of enhancements to its omnichannel experience, which it says makes it easier for customers to get all the products and services they need to make more happen with their businesses. The enhancements include the ability to buy products online and pick them up in-store within hours; an easier way to pay online via Visa Checkout; new in-store kiosks; and the company's first iPad app.

"Staples continues to innovate and develop new technology to improve the customer experience, whether it's providing convenient shipping options, making checkout faster or adding mobile platforms," said Faisal Masud, executive vice president of global e-commerce at Staples. "The recent updates will make it easier for customers to shop however and from wherever they want. This is particularly important for businesses that are always on the go and can't wait for a delivery or delay shopping until they are in front of a desktop."

With the new buy online pick-up in-store feature, customers will be able to select a "pick up today" option as they view a product on Staples.com. Staples promises to have their order ready for pick up within two hours. Customers can also permanently set their preferred store location, and Staples.com will automatically show the inventory available at the three closest stores. For products not sold in-store, customers will still have the ability to ship their order to a store for pick up. Both options are free of charge.

Staples is also rolling out new touch screen in-store kiosks throughout its retail locations in the U.S. over the next several months. In addition to upgrading the technology of existing kiosks, the company will reposition them in store to ensure that shoppers have easier access to the million-plus products now available on Staples.com, with free delivery when ordered through a kiosk.

Staples has also announced the first iPad app in the company's history. The app provides an easy-to-use tablet experience, the company said. Users can check and cash their Staples Rewards balance and reorder past purchases via the app.