When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Office Depot
Why Office Depot is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Office Depot stands as a leading American retailer specializing in office supplies, technology products, and business services, making it a convenient and reliable place for individuals and businesses to meet their diverse office needs. Established in 1986, Office Depot has grown dramatically to a robust omni-channel platform featuring roughly 1,400 stores, an online presence, and specialized sales professionals, servicing small to enterprise-level customers nationwide. The company operates under multiple strong banner brands—Office Depot, OfficeMax, CompuCom, and Grand & Toy—offering a comprehensive range of office products, technology solutions, and business services under one roof. This extensive product and service variety makes it an ideal location for friends, colleagues, or business associates to meet and collaborate, given the ability to source everything from basic office supplies to technical support and business solutions conveniently. Moreover, Office Depot's commitment to empowering businesses through innovative offerings and dedicated customer service enhances its appeal as a community hub where people can engage productively. Its well-integrated online and physical store experience also allows for flexible shopping and meeting arrangements, which is particularly valuable in today's dynamic business environment. Additionally, Office Depot's dedication to inclusivity, career growth, and diversity adds a positive corporate culture aspect that customers and partners appreciate, reinforcing its reputation as a great place not just for shopping but also for meaningful business interactions and support.
Here's what people think of Office Depot
As of recent, Office Depot holds a 4-star rating based on 293 reviews.
Reviews of Office Depot reflect a mixed but generally positive customer experience, with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on nearly 300 reviews. Customers often praise the helpfulness and professionalism of staff, especially highlighting instances where employees went out of their way to assist quickly and effectively, such as helping with shipping logistics and resolving product issues. Positive reviews frequently mention the comprehensive product selection and convenience of having both physical stores and online options, supporting business needs efficiently. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around customer service inconsistencies, unresolved complaints, and occasional difficulties in after-sales support or technical services. According to Better Business Bureau records, Office Depot has had a significant number of complaints over recent years, though many were addressed with refunds or resolutions, indicating responsive customer relations. In summary, while there are areas for improvement, particularly in consistent service delivery and complaint resolution, the overall sentiment shows that Office Depot remains a dependable and valued resource for office supplies and business services. This balanced perspective can help prospective customers weigh the company's strengths in product accessibility and service against some service-related challenges noted in reviews.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sassy Wine Belly
I’ve always purchased ink for my HP printer from this location or from Office Depot online. Most recently, I purchased the same multipack of HP ink cartridges I usually do for my printer (1 black and 3 color cartridges). When I installed the magenta and cyan cartridges, I received a “printer failure” warning on the display (see photo). I tried everything the HP troubleshooting guide online offered, but I kept getting the same printer failure message. Finally, I thought perhaps there might be something wrong with the new cartridges, so I pulled them out and put the old ones back in. The printer failure message disappeared. However, I can’t print with empty cartridges, so I took the pack of new but opened cartridges back to this Office Depot, and they said that even though the product is defective, they are not able to provide a refund for open packages of ink or toner. I asked to speak with a manager, and he said the same thing. They told me that my only recourse was to contact HP directly since the cartridges are HP products. I left the store and called Office Depot corporate, and was able to speak to a representative. They repeated the same return policy back to me. I refused to accept this and asked them how they could not resolve an issue with a defective product purchased from their company. It took about 30 minutes, but she finally did refund me for the defective cartridges. From now on I won’t be purchasing ink cartridges from Office Depot or OfficeMax. I’ll be purchasing them directly from the manufacturer, or from another store that will help when there is a defective product.
Sunny Ardizzoni
I didn’t get a receipt (I selected no receipt) but I know there’s an option for a survey on there! If any higher ups read this, I would love to fill one out for Mario! He was so fantastic and helpful. Definite asset to the company!
Nick M
Lower prices and stop asking so many questions at the register No I don’t want to become a member No I don’t want to donate Most annoying shopping experience ever Nonetheless I will still come here because it’s across the street
Nikki Tate
Mario went above and beyond to help find a solution for my business needs. Wonderful customer service.
Dave Kemper
Really really happy with the way my prints turned out. Chris the Manager at the print center was incredibly helpful and obviously knew what he was doing. Made great suggestions and got the job done in about half the time I expected. Reasonable price too. A little less than expected.
Sassy Wine Belly
I’ve always purchased ink for my HP printer from this location or from Office Depot online. Most recently, I purchased the same multipack of HP ink cartridges I usually do for my printer (1 black and 3 color cartridges). When I installed the magenta and cyan cartridges, I received a “printer failure” warning on the display (see photo). I tried everything the HP troubleshooting guide online offered, but I kept getting the same printer failure message. Finally, I thought perhaps there might be something wrong with the new cartridges, so I pulled them out and put the old ones back in. The printer failure message disappeared. However, I can’t print with empty cartridges, so I took the pack of new but opened cartridges back to this Office Depot, and they said that even though the product is defective, they are not able to provide a refund for open packages of ink or toner. I asked to speak with a manager, and he said the same thing. They told me that my only recourse was to contact HP directly since the cartridges are HP products. I left the store and called Office Depot corporate, and was able to speak to a representative. They repeated the same return policy back to me. I refused to accept this and asked them how they could not resolve an issue with a defective product purchased from their company. It took about 30 minutes, but she finally did refund me for the defective cartridges. From now on I won’t be purchasing ink cartridges from Office Depot or OfficeMax. I’ll be purchasing them directly from the manufacturer, or from another store that will help when there is a defective product.
Sunny Ardizzoni
I didn’t get a receipt (I selected no receipt) but I know there’s an option for a survey on there! If any higher ups read this, I would love to fill one out for Mario! He was so fantastic and helpful. Definite asset to the company!
Nick M
Lower prices and stop asking so many questions at the register No I don’t want to become a member No I don’t want to donate Most annoying shopping experience ever Nonetheless I will still come here because it’s across the street
Nikki Tate
Mario went above and beyond to help find a solution for my business needs. Wonderful customer service.
Dave Kemper
Really really happy with the way my prints turned out. Chris the Manager at the print center was incredibly helpful and obviously knew what he was doing. Made great suggestions and got the job done in about half the time I expected. Reasonable price too. A little less than expected.
Nikki Tate
Mario went above and beyond to help find a solution for my business needs. Wonderful customer service.
Sunny Ardizzoni
I didn’t get a receipt (I selected no receipt) but I know there’s an option for a survey on there! If any higher ups read this, I would love to fill one out for Mario! He was so fantastic and helpful. Definite asset to the company!
Nick M
Lower prices and stop asking so many questions at the register No I don’t want to become a member No I don’t want to donate Most annoying shopping experience ever Nonetheless I will still come here because it’s across the street
Sassy Wine Belly
I’ve always purchased ink for my HP printer from this location or from Office Depot online. Most recently, I purchased the same multipack of HP ink cartridges I usually do for my printer (1 black and 3 color cartridges). When I installed the magenta and cyan cartridges, I received a “printer failure” warning on the display (see photo). I tried everything the HP troubleshooting guide online offered, but I kept getting the same printer failure message. Finally, I thought perhaps there might be something wrong with the new cartridges, so I pulled them out and put the old ones back in. The printer failure message disappeared. However, I can’t print with empty cartridges, so I took the pack of new but opened cartridges back to this Office Depot, and they said that even though the product is defective, they are not able to provide a refund for open packages of ink or toner. I asked to speak with a manager, and he said the same thing. They told me that my only recourse was to contact HP directly since the cartridges are HP products. I left the store and called Office Depot corporate, and was able to speak to a representative. They repeated the same return policy back to me. I refused to accept this and asked them how they could not resolve an issue with a defective product purchased from their company. It took about 30 minutes, but she finally did refund me for the defective cartridges. From now on I won’t be purchasing ink cartridges from Office Depot or OfficeMax. I’ll be purchasing them directly from the manufacturer, or from another store that will help when there is a defective product.
Dave Kemper
Really really happy with the way my prints turned out. Chris the Manager at the print center was incredibly helpful and obviously knew what he was doing. Made great suggestions and got the job done in about half the time I expected. Reasonable price too. A little less than expected.
How to reach Office Depot
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Website: None
Why Office Depot may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Office Depot with your friends?
Meeting up with friends or family at Office Depot might not be the first idea that springs to mind when planning a group outing, but it offers a surprisingly versatile and practical space to gather. Office Depot is more than just a retail store; it’s a hub for creativity, productivity, and convenience. Whether you and your friends are students collaborating on a big project, entrepreneurs brainstorming your next business move, or simply looking for a casual spot to support each other in organizing or crafting, Office Depot provides an inviting environment with resources tailored to your needs. The store’s broad range of products and services means your group can engage in activities that stimulate collaboration and creativity while having access to reliable office technology. Additionally, the friendly and knowledgeable staff contribute to a welcoming atmosphere where your group can feel supported in tackling various tasks. With a solid customer rating of 4.0 from nearly 300 reviews, it’s clear that many people appreciate what Office Depot offers, especially for group visits that combine practicality with a dash of productivity.
What activities can a group enjoy at Office Depot?
Office Depot offers a variety of engaging activities for groups, making it an excellent choice for meetups beyond just shopping. One key activity is collaborative printing and copying services. Groups preparing presentations, flyers, or event materials can use Office Depot’s advanced self-serve printing options, which allow multiple users to upload and print documents quickly and efficiently. This is ideal for project groups needing to finalize materials on the spot or families organizing event invitations. Another popular activity is utilizing the tech trade-in and repair services. Your friends can bring their devices for diagnostics or trade-ins while sharing tips and working through technical challenges together. Additionally, Office Depot offers creative services like personalized rubber stamps and professional-grade printing, so groups interested in crafts or business branding can engage in hands-on customization projects. The store’s extensive cleaning and breakroom supplies also enable groups to plan shared office or event setups, possibly experimenting with organizing ideas in real time. With many helpful staff members roaming the aisles, your group can also learn about efficient office setups or the newest tech additions to enhance productivity.
Why is Office Depot a perfect spot for group meetups?
Office Depot’s nontraditional but functional atmosphere makes it an ideal focal point for groups seeking a practical yet casual meetup location. Unlike typical cafés or restaurants, Office Depot combines retail convenience with comprehensive office services, meaning your meetups don’t have to pause for errands or last-minute preparations. Groups can brainstorm ideas at the store, then immediately equip themselves with supplies ranging from paper and ink to essential tech gadgets and furniture. Its broad service offering includes faxing, shredding, mailing, and shipping via FedEx and USPS, which creates a one-stop-shop environment for any administratively heavy gatherings. This means your group can complete multiple errands together, saving time while enjoying company. The availability of curbside pickup also ensures a smooth shopping experience for larger groups or when transporting heavy items. Plus, many stores feature expanded furniture showrooms where groups can explore ergonomic setups or workplace design ideas together. Staff personalized assistance enhances the experience, helping everyone find what they need quickly. These features collectively make Office Depot a convenient, productive, and low-pressure environment for connecting with friends or family who share work, study, or creative interests.
How can Office Depot enhance collaborative projects for groups?
For students, professionals, or creatives working in teams, Office Depot offers a powerful toolkit to enhance collaborative projects. Groups can utilize the print and copy center to produce high-quality handouts, posters, or portfolios without needing to outsource to multiple vendors. The self-serve printing kiosks streamline the workflow by allowing multiple users to access print jobs via cloud connections or USB devices at their convenience during a meetup. Additionally, customization services such as rubber stamps or personalized stationery allow groups to brand their projects with a professional touch. Tech services provide hands-on help with software installation, device repair, and tech recycling, keeping all team members digitally connected and equipped. Teams organizing workshops or presentations can also benefit from Office Depot’s packing, mailing, and shipping services to distribute materials efficiently after the meetup. The presence of faxing and shredding services further supports secure handling of sensitive documents when needed. This comprehensive approach empowers groups to focus on creativity and content without worrying about logistics, making Office Depot a facilitator of seamless and efficient collaboration.
What makes the shopping and service experience at Office Depot group-friendly?
Office Depot’s group-friendly experience stems from its well-organized layout, helpful staff, and extensive service menu designed to accommodate multiple simultaneous customer needs. Groups can split up to browse various sections such as office supplies, technology, breakroom goods, and furniture, ensuring everyone finds what they need without congestion. The stores often remain open late, some until 8 or 9 PM, giving groups flexible hours to meet after work or school. Customer service representatives are readily available to assist large groups with bulk orders, personalized services, or tech support, streamlining the shopping experience. The availability of curbside pickup and delivery options means groups can coordinate their purchases efficiently, even if members need to leave early. Ink and toner recycling, as well as tech recycling programs, allow environmentally conscious groups to give back responsibly. With clean, well-lit spaces designed to foster ease of movement and interaction, Office Depot offers a comfortable environment for groups to shop, plan, and prepare together, reinforcing its reputation as a uniquely practical venue for social meetups centered around productivity.
How does Office Depot support environmentally friendly group activities?
Office Depot promotes sustainability practices that appeal to environmentally aware groups looking to combine their meetups with eco-conscious actions. One standout service is the ink and toner recycling program, making it easy for groups to bring old cartridges and responsibly recycle them as part of a collective effort. Similarly, tech recycling options allow participants to dispose of outdated or broken electronics safely, removing e-waste from landfills. Groups can educate themselves about these programs with the help of staff and often find bulk purchase options in eco-friendly supplies, encouraging greener office or craft projects. By integrating these services into a meetup, groups not only accomplish their tasks but also contribute positively to the environment in a collective and tangible way. This adds an inspiring dimension to social gatherings, aligning practical goals with environmental stewardship. The overall footprint of Office Depot in offering these options makes it more than just a retail destination—it becomes a community resource to foster sustainable habits in both personal and professional circles.
What amenities and conveniences make Office Depot ideal for families meeting up?
Although primarily known as an office supply retailer, Office Depot’s convenient amenities make it surprisingly suitable for family meetups. Parents can coordinate school supply runs together, taking advantage of the store’s extensive inventory of notebooks, pens, and art supplies while children explore craft materials under supervision. The broad range of cleaning and breakroom items can help families plan for upcoming events or gatherings, perhaps exchanging ideas for home organization. The presence of tech services — including device troubleshooting and trade-in programs — offers a shared resource for family members with varying tech needs, enabling multi-generational support and learning. With services such as FedEx and USPS shipping, families can also send care packages or important documents during a visit, efficiently checking off multiple errands in one trip. Store hours that often extend into the evening provide flexibility for family groups balancing busy schedules. The combination of practical resources and a casual atmosphere turns Office Depot into a smart, multipurpose meeting point for family coordination and bonding.
How does Office Depot accommodate those needing tech support during group visits?
Office Depot offers comprehensive tech support services highly beneficial for groups visiting with multiple device-related needs. Their tech services include diagnostics, repairs, software installations, and device trade-ins, making it a practical stop for friends or colleagues troubleshooting varied electronics simultaneously. This supports collaborative problem-solving, where members with more tech savvy can assist others, or multiple devices can be assessed during the same visit. Technical experts on site provide professional guidance and service, helping groups avoid the hassle of booking separate appointments or visiting multiple stores. The presence of tech recycling is also a community-friendly feature, allowing groups to responsibly dispose of outdated technology together. This setup fosters an efficient way to stay digitally connected and prepared for group projects, meetings, or events, ensuring no one is held back by tech issues. Group visits to Office Depot for tech support encourage teamwork and shared learning in a relaxed retail environment.
What is the customer service like for groups at Office Depot?
Customer service at Office Depot is known for being friendly and attentive, which makes group visits more pleasant and productive. Store managers and team members are visible and approachable, ready to help multiple customers simultaneously by providing product suggestions, service explanations, or personalized order assistance. This is particularly helpful for groups trying to make decisions on bulk purchases or specialized services like printing and shipping. The staff’s expertise ensures that group members can quickly get answers, allowing the meetup to flow smoothly without long waits. Many locations also offer curbside pickup and personalized shopping assistance to accommodate group convenience and time efficiency. The positive reputation reflected in the 4.0-star rating from nearly 300 reviews underscores the consistency of good service, which is a key factor in making Office Depot appealing for group interactions focusing on both practicality and comfort.
How can Office Depot’s location and hours benefit group meetups?
Office Depot stores typically feature convenient locations with extended hours, making them well suited for flexible group meetups. Many locations are situated in accessible commercial areas or near major roadways, easing transportation logistics for friends or family traveling from different parts of town. The stores often open early and close late, some until 7 or 8 PM or even later, which accommodates groups looking to meet after work, school, or other daytime commitments. This wide time window allows for less rushed visits and the ability to accomplish multiple goals, such as shopping, printing, and tech repair, within the same outing. Longer hours make spontaneous meetups feasible as well, supporting last-minute project needs or event preparations. The physical layout within these locations is designed to handle a steady flow of customers, making it easier for groups to move around comfortably without feeling crowded. These location and hour advantages enhance the overall convenience for groups planning a productive and enjoyable day at Office Depot.