Staples tried to buy Office Depot in 97 and got whacked by the FTC.
Wonder how the FTC will now be able to get around the logic used in 97 to stop that sale.
I believe there to be a number of other reasons why this merger is taking place:
These Office supply box stores have outlived their novelty, usefulness and sell overpriced goods.
Example: a leather Daytimer portfolio calendar appointment briefcase that sells for $96 at the Office box store, sells for $56 at Amazon.
Their computer technology business profits have been affected by plummeting prices of PC’s, laptops and tablets.
Commercial and retail consumers often first shop online and when needed, go to Walmart, Target, Costco, Sams, FedEx, BJ Warehouse, Bestbuy, and Fryes for immediate office and computer supplies.
I do agree that there is major belt-tightening occurring during this Obola recovery.