When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego 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 one of the largest and most recognizable office supply superstores in the United States, offering an extensive range of office products and services that make it a great place to meet up with friends or colleagues for business needs. Established in 1986 in Boston, Staples pioneered the office supply superstore concept with a vision of providing a broad inventory at competitive prices primarily for small business owners and individuals alike. With over 1,300 stores across North America and international locations, Staples caters not only to retail customers but also to medium and large enterprises through its robust delivery and B2B services. Recent store concepts such as Staples Connect include coworking spaces and auditorium-style rooms, which further create engaging environments perfect for collaboration or social meetings. Additionally, partnerships offering podcast recording studios add a modern twist to the classic office supply store experience, allowing customers to combine professional errands with creative pursuits. Staples' commitment to convenience, variety, and innovation underscores why it remains a popular and practical choice for office supplies, technology, furniture, and business services, making it an ideal meeting spot for those looking to mix work and socializing.
Here's what people think of Staples
As of recent, Staples holds a 3.9-star rating based on 186 reviews.
User reviews of Staples present a mixed but generally favorable outlook with a rating of 3.9 based on 186 reviews. Many positive reviews praise Staples for its wide selection of office supplies, convenient store locations, and competitive pricing, highlighting the helpfulness of staff and the availability of new store concepts fostering community and work-centric interaction. Customers frequently mention the added value of services such as print and copy centers, tech support, and the innovative Staples Connect stores which offer useful collaborative spaces and podcast studios. On the negative side, some reviewers point out occasional issues such as inconsistent customer service experiences, limited stock availability in particular stores, and challenges related to online order fulfillment or delivery. A few reviews mention that some stores feel outdated or cluttered, impacting the overall shopping experience. Despite these drawbacks, the majority opinion appreciates Staples’ efforts to innovatively reshape how office supply stores serve both individuals and businesses. In conclusion, Staples receives commendation for maintaining a comprehensive product mix and evolving its retail environment, though opportunities remain to enhance customer service consistency and inventory management to further satisfy patrons' expectations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Hanna Lee Hernandez
I had such a great experience at the Staples Print Center thanks to Luis! He went above and beyond to help me with my printing order—so friendly, patient, and professional. He took the time to make sure everything turned out perfectly and truly made my day so much better. I'm incredibly grateful for his help and positive attitude. Thank you, Luis! You are so appreciated!
Anne Caroline
Every time I visit Staples, I am always impressed by the outstanding customer service. The staff is consistently helpful, patient, and knowledgeable. No matter what I need, they are always ready to assist with a great attitude. It’s a pleasure to have a place I can count on every time. Thank you, Staples team, for always going above and beyond!
Jennifer St.Clair
Luis hooked me up with printing a professional presentation. He was patient, professional, knowledgeable and sweet. I'll be back! Thank you!
Maxwell Shenk
Great store. They've been printing work presentations for me and they all come out great. Luis Z helped me with some scanning today and also with paper stock questions for invitations. He was incredibly helpful and great to work with.
Karen Anderson
Staples has a great selection of printers. The clerk named Leo helped me in choosing the perfect printer that meets all my needs. He was super smart, kind, and gave me lots of help.
How to reach Staples
None
Website: None
Why Staples may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Staples with your friends?
Staples is much more than just an office supply store; it offers a unique and versatile environment that makes it an ideal place to gather with friends or family. Whether you are assembling a group for a casual hangout, a productive brainstorming session, or a creative project day, Staples provides the tools and space to make your meetup both fun and fruitful. With its wide selection of office products, arts and crafts supplies, electronics, and even innovative in-store features like co-working areas and podcast recording studios, Staples encourages collaborative and creative engagement among small groups. Moreover, its many locations across the U.S. make it accessible and convenient to host meetups close to home or a favorite neighborhood. The store’s engaging atmosphere combined with practical resources offers a refreshing alternative to typical meet-up spots, promoting interaction, inspiration, and accomplishment. Whether planning a study group, a crafting party, or a startup team meeting, Staples provides a dynamic backdrop where friends can connect, create, and energize their group activities.
What activities can you do at Staples for a group meetup?
Staples offers a remarkable range of activities suited for groups looking to combine productivity with social connection. First, the extensive selection of office and school supplies opens the door for creative group projects—think scrapbooking, DIY planners, or artwork sessions using items like paper, pens, binders, and craft materials. For friends who love to tinker, Staples stocks a variety of tech gadgets, printers, and computers that can be tested or used as part of a tech demo or collaborative work session. Second, some Staples locations feature innovative "Staples Studio" spaces and auditorium-style “Spotlight” theaters that groups can rent to hold presentations, workshops, or group performances. This provides a professional yet welcoming environment ideal for small events or team workshops. Additionally, in select stores with podcast recording studios, groups interested in digital media can record podcasts or audio projects with the support of onsite engineers, fostering both technical skill-building and creative expression. These myriad activities, combined with the store’s extensive inventory, make Staples a hands-on destination where groups can learn, collaborate, and entertain themselves in a unique indoor setting.
Why is Staples the perfect venue for group meetups?
Staples prides itself on blending retail convenience with community and productivity spaces that cater directly to groups and meetups. The store’s layout is spacious and well-designed to facilitate movement and interaction, enabling groups to browse products together or work side-by-side in designated co-working zones. This makes it easier for friends or colleagues to share ideas and supplies without the distractions often found in cafes or public parks. Staples also offers convenient amenities such as printing, copying, and shipping services, allowing groups to complete tasks on the spot without needing to leave or coordinate elsewhere. Their customer service is geared toward assisting collaborative projects, often providing expert advice or demonstrations that enhance the group experience. Furthermore, Staples’ modernized stores, led by concepts like Staples Connect, include comfortable seating and dedicated areas that double as informal meeting spots—creating a blend of work, play, and social interaction. The flexible environment allows groups to tailor the experience according to their needs, whether for work sessions, creative workshops, or casual gatherings. This unique combination of retail, services, and social space makes Staples an outstanding choice for hosting meetups of all kinds.
What kinds of office supplies and products make Staples ideal for groups?
One of the standout features of Staples is its vast and varied inventory, designed to meet nearly every need that groups might have during their meetups. From essential office basics like pens, notebooks, and sticky notes to specialized products such as high-capacity printers, laminators, and label makers, Staples covers the full spectrum of tasks requiring coordinated effort. The arts and crafts supplies section, including markers, adhesives, and paper varieties, supports a wide array of creative group projects. Additionally, organizational tools such as binders, folders, planners, and calendar systems help groups stay on track with their collaborative plans or event coordination. For tech-savvy groups, Staples offers computers, scanners, ink and toner cartridges, and various electronic accessories, facilitating digital productivity. The availability of shipping materials and postal stamps adds convenience for groups dealing with mailings or distributing invitations as part of event planning. This comprehensive product range ensures that everything needed for a successful meetup—from brainstorming and crafting to presenting and printing—is at hand, eliminating the frustration of multi-stop errands and empowering groups to focus fully on their shared activity.
How does Staples support a productive and fun gathering atmosphere?
Staples goes beyond being a retail store by crafting an environment that stimulates both productivity and enjoyment during group interactions. The new store concepts integrate co-working spaces known as Staples Studio that provide comfort and connectivity, essential for groups aiming to collaborate on projects or hold informal meetings. These spaces are deliberately designed with ergonomics and technology in mind, including Wi-Fi access and charging stations, enabling groups to work efficiently. The addition of auditorium-style Spotlight theaters introduces an element of fun and professionalism, allowing groups to host mini-events, training sessions, or presentations, thus fostering a sense of occasion within the meetup. For creative and media enthusiasts, the availability of podcast studios offers a rare and exciting chance to record high-quality audio with the help of available engineers and technical resources, turning a casual meetup into a memorable production experience. Together, these features transform Staples into a versatile venue where productivity intersects with creativity and social engagement, making group gatherings both valuable and enjoyable.
What makes Staples convenient and accessible for local meetups?
With over 860 locations across the United States, Staples is widely accessible for groups in nearly any community. This broad footprint ensures that whether your friends or family live in urban centers, suburbs, or smaller towns, a Staples store is likely nearby, simplifying logistics for planning meetups. The stores typically have generous parking spaces or are situated near public transit, making arrival and departure stress-free for all group members. Staples stores generally maintain extended hours, including weekends, accommodating various schedules—important for groups with diverse commitments. In addition to physical locations, Staples offers online tools for browsing inventory and reserving in-store services, which supports meetup planning from home. The combination of accessibility, ample parking, and flexible hours adds a layer of convenience that reduces the hassle of coordinating group events. Therefore, Staples becomes not just a venue but a seamless solution to bringing people together for work, play, and collaborative projects.
How does shopping and meeting at Staples promote teamwork and creativity?
Meeting at Staples encourages the organic flow of ideas and cooperation among group members by placing them in an environment stocked with inspiration and resources. By having immediate access to wide-ranging supplies, groups can prototype ideas, gather materials for projects, or pivot plans spontaneously based on available tools. Staples also fosters creativity through its educational and promotional events, where groups can learn new skills or discover innovative ways to use office products and technology. Collaboration is enhanced as members share discoveries or assist one another in selecting the right tools, deepening communication and strengthening group dynamics. Furthermore, the use of co-working spaces encourages mutual support and knowledge exchange, vital components for productive teamwork. This setting energizes groups, helping maintain focus while stimulating creative problem-solving, making meetups at Staples both effective and enjoyable.
Why choose Staples over other venues for group events?
Choosing Staples as a meetup venue offers a distinctive combination of resources, flexibility, and atmosphere that many conventional locations cannot match. Unlike cafes or restaurants, Staples is specifically designed to serve as a hub for productivity with access to a broad range of functional supplies and business services. Its hybrid retail-meeting space model means that groups can transition easily from shopping to working without needing to relocate. Staples supports a diversity of meeting purposes—from casual crafting sessions to formal presentations—under one roof. The presence of new amenities like podcast studios and Spotlight theaters adds unique value by enabling gatherings centered around media creation or professional training. Additionally, the friendly, expert staff are on hand to assist, adding a layer of support not typically available in other meetup places. For groups seeking a venue that enhances group engagement, boosts creativity, and offers pragmatic solutions for diverse needs, Staples provides an unmatched environment for their events.
In sum, Staples stands out as a compelling choice for hosting meetups with friends or family thanks to its comprehensive supplies, innovative spaces, supportive services, and widespread convenience. It transforms ordinary gatherings into productive, creative, and enjoyable group experiences. Whether for work, leisure, or creative collaboration, Staples offers an environment designed to unlock group potential and achieve shared goals.