When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Staples
Why Staples is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Staples is a leading American office supply retailer that has become a go-to destination for meeting up with friends, colleagues, or for getting business essentials. Founded in 1986 in Brighton, Boston, Staples revolutionized office supplies by offering a superstore experience with extended hours and an extensive variety of products. The store boasts a comprehensive selection of office essentials, ranging from notebooks, paper, and folders to computers, desks, ergonomic chairs, and even breakroom and cleaning supplies. Its broad product range makes it easy to find everything needed for work, school, or creative projects all in one place. Staples also offers numerous services like printing, packing, shipping, and tech support, making it more than just a retail location. Its inviting environment and wide product assortment make it a great spot to gather with friends for collaborative projects or to stock up on supplies for an upcoming event. Additionally, Staples' evolution towards business-to-business offerings ensures that customers receive tailored, reliable support whether they are small business owners or large corporate clients. With its convenient locations and a strong online presence, Staples remains accessible and customer-oriented, solidifying its reputation as a prime place to meet, shop, and get work done.
Here's what people think of Staples
As of recent, Staples holds a 4.1-star rating based on 200 reviews.
User reviews of Staples reflect an overall positive experience with an average rating of 4.1 from 200 reviews. Many customers praised Staples for its vast selection of office supplies and the convenience of having numerous product categories under one roof, ranging from furniture and technology to everyday office essentials. Positive feedback often highlights helpful and knowledgeable staff who assist with technical services and printing needs, contributing to efficient shopping trips. Customers also appreciate Staples' reliable online ordering system and shipping services, which add to the convenience. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on issues like occasional poor customer service experiences, delays in shipping or product availability, and the pricing of certain items that some customers find higher than competitors. A few reviewers mentioned limited stock in some store locations or dissatisfaction with the return policy. Despite these critiques, Staples is generally viewed as a dependable and convenient office supply store that accommodates both individual shoppers and business clients. In summary, the reviews suggest that Staples stands out for its comprehensive offerings and service options, but customers should be mindful of variability in store experiences and occasional stock issues.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Joy
This review is for Staples & the TSA station within the store. The store is situated among numerous other stores like a beach of a strip mall. that offer shopping & other customer needs - stepping into the store - there are baskets available that help me stabilize as accessibility was a factor. For the young & young heart there are shopping baskets. I was struck by the clean lines of the store. Well thought out designs with stations of goodies placed to offer great shopping experiences to the consumer- beautifully designed office chairs of different colors - I was invited to sit in one with a beeper until the TSA person was ready. As I looked around there were gels pens - copy paper - all kinds of items needed for school office hand sanitizing items. I bought a cute little hand sanitizer to clip on my purse. When my beeper went off the TSA agent was courteous kind patient & very thorough- in fact meticulously explaining everything that he was during. This young man was awesome. After completing the process of application- which was exhausting but okay- being a female - certain documents were needed for name changes. Also a birth certificate with the official seal. No photos could be taken of that station. After completion I was given the beeper again & invited to sit in an office chair to wait for a passport photo. In a few minutes it buzzed and the young ladies were equally courteous kind & caring. The passport process only took a few minutes & I was happy. I didn’t meet the manager but this is a store I plan to visit again and again. I signed up for the reward system & plan to use my $10 off a $50 purchase soon. Kudos to the manager of this store ! 😊
Judith Race
I was looking at the many options for printer ink when an associate came up to me and offered assistance. He was extremely knowledgeable and offered several options for my purchase. I had several questions which he politely and patiently answered. I was very impressed with his knowledge and willingness to help.
Tyler J
Great store. Friendly associates and plentiful around seems like no matter when you come in. I visit the store 3-4 times a month and every time I’m greeted, asked if I need help, and checkout is fast. Not the closest store for me, but the ease of getting in and out (Brier Creek parking is awful, but not staples fault) makes it worth going to. Also, the inventory is regularly stocked which is nice when I need business supplies. Very reliable. Great sales and membership benefits as well.
Nick G
This staples location is one of the best ive been to. The staff were very helpful and informative. Most retail stores you go in these days are understaffed and dont offer a personalized experience and this was refreshing experience. I also want to give a shout out to Sara who was very knowledgable about the office chairs!
Taryn Thompson
Not friendly or helpful customer service. Also return process is not user friendly. UPS says the have a scanner for a barcode on app but there is not one at the store. Should be able to return store product at the store. Added hassle for customers. Wont be using staples again.
How to reach Staples
None
Website: None
Why rally at Staples with your friends?
Choosing Staples as a meetup spot for friends or family might not be the first idea that comes to mind, but it holds unique appeal that makes it worthy of consideration. Staples is far more than just a retail store; it is a hub of creativity, productivity, and convenience. When you gather at Staples, you are stepping into an environment that fuels collaboration and inspiration through technology, office supplies, and printing services all under one roof. Whether your group is planning a project, organizing an event, or simply looking for a practical and relaxed setting to brainstorm and work together, Staples offers the resources to make it efficient and enjoyable. With its wide array of products, from stationery to cutting-edge tech gadgets, and services including printing and tech support, Staples can easily accommodate group activities or assist in putting together materials for a joint venture. Its accessibility, coupled with knowledgeable staff ready to assist, guarantees a hassle-free experience. For a group wanting a productive yet social outing, Staples is the perfect venue to spark ideas, get organized, and walk away with everything needed for success and enjoyment.
What fun activities can you do with a group at Staples?
Staples offers a variety of activities that make it an ideal location for friends or family to spend time together productively and enjoyably. First, the store’s expansive selection of office and art supplies lends itself perfectly to creative group projects, such as DIY crafts, scrapbooking, or custom card making. Planning a workshop or group activity where everyone can participate in assembling personalized notebooks, planners, or gifts is easy with Staples’ diverse materials. Second, the technology and electronics section allows groups to explore and try new gadgets, from laptops to printers, which can be a great way to encourage collaboration on digital projects or just test devices together. Third, the printing services provide an opportunity for the group to design and print custom materials—be it event flyers, resumes, posters, or personalized stationery—which fosters teamwork and offers immediate, tangible results. Fourth, the tech support desk is useful for groups dealing with technical issues on their devices, allowing for shared problem-solving and learning. Additionally, Staples sometimes hosts community events and workshops related to business, technology, or crafting that groups can attend together for an educational and social experience. With so many options for interaction and shared activities, Staples creates both practical and enjoyable opportunities to bond in a productive setting.
Why is Staples perfect for hosting a group meetup?
Staples is uniquely suited for group meetups because it balances accessibility, convenience, and versatility. The store is centrally located in many cities and towns, with multiple branches available across states, making it easy for groups to find a nearby location. The spacious layout inside Staples stores accommodates groups comfortably, offering ample room to explore products, work on projects together, or gather around a workspace. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience by providing personalized assistance, whether you need help troubleshooting technology, selecting supplies, or utilizing printing services, which ensures the group’s needs are met efficiently. Moreover, Staples caters to a wide range of interests and goals, from business and productivity-oriented meetings to creative and hobbyist sessions, making it adaptable to various types of meetups. Its combination of retail and service elements means the group can shop for essentials, create, produce printed materials, and get technical help all in one visit, saving time and reducing logistical complications. Lastly, the store’s clean, well-lit environment is conducive to conversation and collaboration, setting the right tone for both casual get-togethers and serious planning sessions.
What practical benefits does Staples offer for group gatherings?
One of the major advantages Staples provides for group gatherings is the convenience of having multiple services in a single location. This includes shopping for office supplies, printing documents, getting tech support, and even buying snacks or refreshments from nearby cafés in some locations. Groups can save significant time and effort by managing several tasks in one place rather than visiting multiple stores or service centers. Staples also offers volume discounts and bulk purchasing options, perfect for groups that need large quantities of supplies for events, parties, or projects. The printing and copying services come with a variety of options such as color printing, binding, laminating, and custom design support, allowing groups to prepare professional-quality materials swiftly. Staples’ business services can also help groups by providing shipping services and equipment rentals, which are helpful for meeting preparations or group projects requiring multimedia presentations. Additionally, many Staples stores have workstations and demonstration areas where groups can test products or even connect devices for team use. These practical benefits ensure that gatherings at Staples are productive, efficient, and tailored to the needs of any group size or purpose.
How can Staples enhance a social or creative meetup experience?
Staples enhances social or creative meetups by supplying the tools and atmosphere needed to inspire imagination and teamwork. The wide variety of crafting supplies, art tools, and decorative materials encourages groups to engage in hands-on activities, fueling creativity and bonding through shared artistic endeavors. Whether it’s assembling personalized gift packages, designing décor for an upcoming event, or experimenting with new craft techniques, Staples provides everything needed for a fulfilling creative session. The store’s technology section supports creative collaborations involving digital media, from photo editing and printing to multimedia presentations and content creation. Staples’ printing and custom design services allow groups to turn ideas into tangible keepsakes, such as photo books, calendars, or custom stationery, making the meetup memorable and productive. The welcoming and well-organized store layout promotes relaxed browsing and exploration, which helps reduce the stress associated with meeting planning or project work. This nurturing environment gives groups the freedom to mix socializing with purposeful activity, enhancing friendships and generating collective pride in finished projects.
What makes Staples a practical choice for business group meetings or workshops?
For business groups, Staples offers a comprehensive environment tailored to productivity, collaboration, and professionalism. The availability of business supplies, including filing systems, presentation tools, and office electronics, makes it convenient for teams to gather all necessary materials in one place. Staples supports group meetings or workshops by providing access to printing and copying services that can produce handouts, brochures, and reports on demand. The in-store technology and software resources allow groups to access or demo business tools such as computers, projectors, and teleconferencing equipment. Staples’ tech experts provide valuable support for setting up devices or troubleshooting hardware, reducing downtime during meetings. Furthermore, Staples locations often have quiet spaces or areas that can accommodate small teams for informal meetings or brainstorming sessions. The professional ambiance supports focus while the availability of refreshments nearby helps maintain energy and engagement. Together, these features make Staples an excellent choice for business meetups that require a well-equipped, efficient, and professional setting.
How does Staples support groups with printing and technical assistance?
Staples is renowned for its extensive printing capabilities, which are invaluable for groups needing immediate, high-quality printed materials. Whether it’s marketing flyers, event invitations, promotional banners, or personal projects like photo books, Staples’ printing service can handle diverse orders quickly and with professional results. Groups benefit from the in-store design tools and expert assistance to customize their print projects, ensuring the output matches their vision and needs perfectly. In addition to printing, Staples provides comprehensive technical support for computers, printers, and other office technology, allowing groups to resolve technical issues efficiently. This support includes virus removal, hardware upgrades, software installation, and connectivity troubleshooting. Having these services readily available in a single location means group members can focus on their objectives without interruption caused by technical difficulties. Staples’ blend of printing excellence and technical expertise creates a seamless environment where groups can innovate, produce, and solve problems together, making it especially suited for busy meetups with diverse needs.
Why do customers rate Staples highly as a group-friendly destination?
Staples’ impressive rating of 4.1 from over 200 reviews reflects its strong reputation as a dependable, approachable, and versatile destination for both individuals and groups. Customers appreciate the wide product selection that meets diverse needs—from students and hobbyists to professionals and business teams. The friendly customer service, helpful staff, and efficient checkout process garner praise for making visits smooth and stress-free. Many reviews highlight the convenience of combining shopping, printing, and tech support in one place, saving time and simplifying group activities. The store’s clean, organized layout and well-stocked shelves provide a pleasant shopping atmosphere that enhances group visits. Special promotions and loyalty programs also contribute to a positive experience, making Staples a go-to spot for groups looking for value and quality. These factors combine to make Staples not only a smart choice for individual needs but also an inviting and practical place for groups to meet, collaborate, and accomplish their goals comfortably.
How accessible and convenient is Staples for diverse groups?
Staples boasts a nationwide presence with hundreds of stores spread across nearly every state, ensuring easy accessibility for groups in urban, suburban, or even some rural areas. Many stores are strategically located in shopping centers or close to major roads, which simplifies travel and parking for group members. Staples stores generally offer extended hours of operation, including evenings and weekends, which accommodates the varied schedules of friends, family, or business teams. Accessibility features such as wheelchair ramps, wide aisles, and automatic doors ensure that visitors with mobility needs can navigate comfortably. Additionally, online ordering with in-store pickup allows groups to plan ahead and minimize waiting times during their visit. The combination of physical convenience, flexible hours, and accessibility makes Staples a welcoming venue for all types of groups, regardless of size or special requirements. Its commitment to inclusivity supports a positive experience for everyone involved, reinforcing Staples’ role as a dependable meeting place.
What should groups keep in mind when planning a meetup at Staples?
While Staples offers numerous advantages for group meetups, planning ahead ensures the best experience. Groups should consider the store size and location to choose one that comfortably accommodates the number of people attending. Checking the store’s hours and peak times can help avoid overcrowding and ensure access to staff support. If print or tech services are needed, it’s advisable to call ahead or place orders online to reduce wait times during the visit. Because Staples is primarily a retail environment, it’s important for groups to respect other customers and maintain considerate behavior while using spaces for group activities. Bringing any necessary project materials or digital files in advance can also streamline the process. Lastly, exploring local in-store events or workshops might add an enriching element to the meetup. Being well-prepared maximizes the benefits Staples offers and makes the group gathering productive, enjoyable, and stress-free.
By leveraging Staples’ comprehensive range of products, services, and supportive environment, groups can transform a simple meetup into a dynamic session filled with creativity, productivity, and camaraderie. Whether planning a creative project, business meeting, or casual gathering, Staples stands ready to support and enhance the group experience.