Use these links to rapidly review the document
APPENDIX C

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)  

ý
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

or

o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended
 February 2, 2008		   Commission File Number
 0-17586
  STAPLES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)		  
Delaware
(State of Incorporation)		   04-2896127
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
  Five Hundred Staples Drive,
Framingham, Massachusetts 01702
508-253-5000
(Address and telephone number of principal executive offices)		  

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 
    
Title of each class   Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.0006 per share   The NASDAQ Global Select Market

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
 None

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ý    No o

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15 (d) of the Act. Yes o    No ý

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý    No o

         Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (Check one):

 
    
    
    
Large accelerated filer ý   Accelerated filer o   Non-accelerated filer o   Smaller reporting company o

 
 
 
 
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
 

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act) Yes o    No ý

         The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant, based on the last sale price of Staples' common stock on August 3, 2007, as reported by NASDAQ, was approximately $16.5 billion. In determining the market value of non-affiliate voting stock, shares of Staples' common stock beneficially owned by each executive officer and director have been excluded. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.

         The registrant had 700,981,803 shares of common stock, par value $0.0006, outstanding as of February 29, 2008.

Documents Incorporated By Reference

         Listed below is the document incorporated by reference and the part of the Form 10-K into which the document is incorporated:

Portions of the Proxy Statement for the 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders   Part III


PART I


Item 1. Business

Staples

        Staples is the world's leading office products company. We pioneered the office products superstore concept by opening the first office products superstore in Brighton, Massachusetts in 1986 to serve the needs of small businesses. Staples, Inc. and its subsidiaries ("we", "Staples" or the "Company") operate three business segments: North American Retail, North American Delivery, and International Operations. Additional information regarding our operating segments is presented in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and financial information regarding these segments is provided in Note K in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Business Strategy

        We view the office products market as a large, diversified market for office supplies and services, business machines and related products, computers and related products, and office furniture. We effectively reach each sector of the office products market through three sales channels designed to be convenient to the needs of our customers: retail stores, catalog, and Internet. Our retail and delivery businesses attract different customer groups with distinct purchasing behaviors. Our retail stores target home offices (customers spending over $500 per year on office products excluding computers and furniture, including home-based businesses and teachers), and small businesses with up to 10 office workers. Our retail stores also serve a customer group we refer to as "casual consumers", who shop less frequently than home office and small business customers. Our catalog and Internet businesses primarily target small businesses and organizations with up to 20 office workers. Our Contract business targets medium-size businesses and organizations with between 20 and 500 office workers as well as Fortune 1000 companies. Our ability to address customer groups with different needs increases and diversifies our available market opportunities; increases awareness of the Staples brand among customers in all segments, who often shop across multiple sales channels; and allows us to benefit from a number of important economies of scale, such as increased buying power, enhanced efficiencies in distribution and advertising, and improved capacity to leverage general and administrative functions.

        We strive to provide superior value to our customers through a combination of everyday low prices, a broad selection of products, high quality and innovative Staples brand products, convenient store locations, easy to use web sites, reliable and fast order delivery, and excellent customer service. Our strategy is to maintain our leadership in the office products industry through our focus on three principles: differentiating ourselves by delivering on our brand promise: we make buying office products easy; achieving industry-best execution; and expanding our share in every market where we operate.

        Our North American Retail segment, consisting of 1,738 stores throughout the United States and Canada at the end of fiscal 2007, generates the majority of our sales and profits. Our North American retail stores are located in 47 states, the District of Columbia, 10 Canadian provinces and 2 Canadian territories in both major metropolitan markets and smaller markets. We operate multiple retail formats tailored to the unique characteristics of each location, including our 20,000 square foot prototypical "Dover" superstore, representing the majority of our U.S. store base; a 14,600 square foot format designed for rural markets; and a 10,000 square foot store suited to dense, urban markets such as New York City. The customer-friendly "Dover" design appeals to the customer with an open store interior that gives the customer a better view of our wide selection of products, making it easier to find what they are shopping for. Currently, we operate more than 750 "Dover" stores, and have implemented key elements of the "Dover" model in the majority of our prior store formats. We are also currently testing a 4,000 square foot stand-alone copy and print shop format to address the attractive quick-print market opportunity. This store is designed for prime, urban locations with a full-service copy and print offering and a 1,200 stock keeping unit (SKU) supplies assortment.

        Our strategy for our North American superstores focuses on several key objectives: offer an easy-to-shop store environment with quality products that are in-stock and easy to find, with fast checkout and courteous, helpful and knowledgeable sales associates. Store associates are trained to deliver excellent service through our "Easy" service model, which encourages engagement with customers and solution selling. As part of our strategy of delivering on our

2


"Easy" brand promise, we focus on several key categories for which our customers rely on us to be an authority: ink and toner, paper, business machines, and copy and print services.

        Our real estate strategy is to expand our store base in a steady and disciplined fashion to produce strong sales and yield high returns on our investments. We believe that our network of stores and delivery businesses in various metropolitan markets enhances our profitability by allowing us to leverage marketing, distribution and supervision costs. In determining where to open new retail stores, we assess potential real estate sites through a stringent approval process which evaluates the financial return for each store. Our evaluations consider such factors as the concentration of small and medium-sized businesses and organizations, the number of home offices, household income levels, our current market presence, proximity to competitors, the availability of quality real estate locations and other factors.

        We plan to open approximately 100 new stores in North America in 2008, compared to 120 new stores in 2007, and 99 new stores in 2006. The growth program for 2008 will continue to focus on adding stores to existing markets as well as expansion into new markets. We successfully entered the Chicago, Miami and Denver markets over the past few years, and we are well positioned to enter several other major North American markets where we currently have no retail presence.

        Our North American Delivery segment is comprised of three businesses: "Staples Business Delivery", "Quill", and "Contract".

        Staples Business Delivery:    Our Staples Business Delivery operations combine the activities of our direct mail catalog business, operating since 1990, our Staples.com web site, and our Canadian Internet sites. Staples Business Delivery is primarily designed to reach small businesses and home offices, offering next business day delivery for most office supply orders in major metropolitan areas. We market Staples Business Delivery through catalog mailings, direct mail advertising, a telesales group generating new accounts and growing existing accounts, and Internet and other broad-based media advertising.

        Quill:    Founded in 1956 and acquired by Staples in 1998, Quill is a direct mail catalog and Internet business with a targeted approach to servicing the business product needs of small and medium-sized businesses in the United States. To attract and retain its customers, Quill offers outstanding customer service, Quill brand products, and special services. Quill also operates Medical Arts Press, a specialty Internet and catalog business offering products for medical professionals.

        Contract:    Our Contract operations focus primarily on serving the needs of medium-sized and large regional companies and large multi-regional companies that often require more service than is provided by a traditional retail or mail order business. Through our Contract sales force, we offer customized pricing and payment terms, usage reporting, the stocking of certain proprietary items, and full service account management.

        Our strategies for North American Delivery focus on customer service, customer acquisition and retention, and product penetration to grow our delivery business and increase its profitability. We continue to focus on improving our perfect order metric, which measures the number of orders that we fulfill on time and without error. We have established customer service standards to improve recovery of service failures and to make it easy for customers to resolve any issues with their orders. We are also working to enhance our distribution capabilities to support rapid growth in our delivery businesses by expanding the number of multi-business fulfillment centers and reducing the number of single business facilities, in order to enhance our ability to provide next business day delivery to more markets. We continue to enhance our websites to drive efficiency and customer satisfaction with approximately 75% of our delivery sales processed online. We continue to expand our sales force as we increase our market share and sell a broader assortment of products and services to new and existing customers. Rapid growth in higher margin "share of wallet" categories such as janitorial and break room supplies and copy and print services are designed to drive sales and profitability. In addition to developing our own internal capabilities, we continue to consider acquisition opportunities that either expand our geographic reach or broaden our product and service offerings. Recent acquisitions provided us with the ability to add logoed merchandise, industrial packaging supplies and IT services to our portfolio.

        Our International Operations consist of retail stores, catalog and Internet businesses operating under various names in 20 countries in Europe, Asia, and South America. As of February 2, 2008, we operated retail stores in Belgium,

3

Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, the United Kingdom, China, and through a joint venture in India. In addition, we operate catalog and Internet businesses in Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, China, India, Argentina and Brazil.

        Europe is an important market for Staples. We have established a solid foundation to build a successful, high margin business in Europe over the next few years. We are working towards achieving the level of profitability we have attained in our strong multi-channel offering in North America by improving execution, increasing sales of own brand products, and capitalizing on potential synergies in procurement, supply chain activities and shared administrative services. In our retail business, we are implementing strategies that were successful in North America, which focus on developing relationships with small business customers and home offices by driving steady sales of consumable office supplies. We expect to open approximately 10 new stores in Europe in 2008, compared to 7 new stores in 2007, and 6 new stores in 2006. We plan to continue to grow our European business through improved execution, enhanced segmentation of customers, an improved on-line offering and increased sharing of best practices.

        Operations in Asia and South America continue to provide a platform for rapid growth. In Asia, we operate a delivery business in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen in China, a retail business primarily in the Yangtze Delta Region of China and a delivery business in Taiwan through a joint venture with UB Express. In 2007, we announced a joint venture with UPS in China to operate co-branded stores. In total, we operate 32 retail stores in China. Through our joint venture with Future Group, we began to open stores and launched a delivery business in India during 2007. We also operate a delivery business in Argentina and Brazil, with operations in Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo and Brasilia.

Merchandising

        We sell a wide variety of office supplies and services, business machines and related products, computers and related products, and office furniture. While our buying and merchandising staff uses integrated computer systems to perform centrally the vast majority of our merchandise planning and product purchasing, some of our business units, particularly Quill, our Canadian operations and our multiple International businesses, leverage our global buying and merchandising staff along with local staff to meet their specific buying and merchandising needs. We purchase products from several hundred vendors worldwide, and we believe that competitive sources of supply are available to us for substantially all of the products we carry.

        We have approximately 8,000 SKUs stocked in each of our typical North American retail stores and approximately 15,000 SKUs stocked in our North American Delivery fulfillment centers. Our merchandising team constantly reviews and updates our product assortment to respond to changing customer needs and to maximize the performance of our key categories. Ink and toner remains an important product category, and we continue to gain market share in this area by offering a wide assortment, an in-stock guarantee, and a strong pricing message which communicates the benefits of our loyalty program, cartridge recycling rebates, and multi-pack discounts. We also enhanced our offering with the addition of Dell brand ink and toner late in 2007. Our partnership with Dell is exclusive in the office superstore channel. We continue to partner with the best manufacturers in the office products industry to improve our offering and provide value to customers.

        Our product offering includes Staples, Quill, and other proprietary branded products, which together represented approximately 22% of our total sales in 2007. We offer more than 2,000 own brand products, delivering value to our customers with prices that are on average 10% to 15% lower than the national brand. These products also generate higher gross margins on average than national brands. Our own brand strategy focuses on offering national brand quality at lower prices with a full range of marketing initiatives including clear and impactful packaging, in-store displays, sampling and advertising. We have brought to market hundreds of new Staples brand products, many of which are innovative and exclusive to Staples. Stand-out examples of successful innovation include the MailMate shredder, designed to destroy junk mail and look at home on customers' kitchen counters; the "Better Binder", a uniquely durable binder which significantly improved sales in the binder category since its launch; and "M by Staples", a new collection of high quality, fashion-forward office accessories launched during 2007. Our long-term goal is to grow own brand products to 30% of total product sales. Our sourcing office in Shenzhen, China supports our own brand strategy by ensuring high quality and timely delivery, driving lower costs, and bringing new products to market more quickly.

        We also offer an array of services, including high-speed, color and self-service copying, other printing services, faxing and pack and ship. The multi-billion dollar copy and print market is highly fragmented, and we believe we have a significant opportunity to gain share in this market. Over the past several years, we have upgraded the technology, signage, labor, training and quality processes in our copy and print centers across the chain. We continue to add new

4


services, such as the capability to print signs and banners and "Business Cards in Minutes", a service that delivers professional quality business cards to customers while they wait. Investments in marketing and pricing drive greater customer awareness of our capabilities, increasing sales and average order size. Our copy and print business is highly profitable, and growth in this area contributes meaningfully to gross margin expansion. Following the success of our retail copy and print business, we began to leverage our sales force and delivery network to offer copy services to our Contract customers. We operate seven dedicated copy facilities to service the copy and print needs of corporate accounts, and we plan to open more Contract copy facilities going forward to meet the growing demand in this category.

        Another important service opportunity is in the technology services arena, a fragmented market largely served by local independents. We provide a full range of installation, upgrade, and repair services, as well as data protection, privacy, and security services through our "EasyTech" program. Currently, all of our stores are staffed with at least one Staples EasyTech associate, and we continue to invest in our technology services infrastructure to further develop our range of capabilities.

        The following table shows our sales by each major product line as a percentage of total sales for the periods indicated:

 
   Fiscal Year Ended
  
 
   February 2, 2008
   February 3, 2007
   January 28, 2006
  
Office supplies and services   41.8 % 40.7 % 40.1 %
Business machines and related products   30.5 % 30.2 % 30.3 %
Computers and related products   20.5 % 21.6 % 21.9 %
Office furniture   7.2 % 7.5 % 7.7 %
   
 
 
 
    100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
   
 
 
 

Supply Chain

        We operate two distinct networks to service the majority of the replenishment and delivery requirements for North America: a network of 4 retail distribution centers in California, Connecticut, Indiana and Maryland to support our US retail operations, and a separate network of 32 delivery fulfillment centers to support our North American Delivery operations. Most products are shipped from our suppliers to the distribution and fulfillment centers for reshipment to our stores and delivery to our customers through our delivery hubs. Of our 32 North American Delivery fulfillment centers, 14 locations service more than one of our delivery businesses and 6 of the 14 locations support all three of our delivery businesses. We continue to invest in new facilities to support rapid growth and maintain excellent service in our North American Delivery business. We opened new fulfillment centers in Denver and Nova Scotia during 2007.

        We believe our distribution centers provide us with significant labor and merchandise cost savings by centralizing receiving and handling functions and by enabling us to purchase in full truckloads and other economically efficient quantities from suppliers. We also believe that the reduction in the number of purchase orders and invoices processed results in significant administrative cost savings. Our centralized purchasing and distribution systems also permit our store associates to spend more time on customer service and store presentation. Since our distribution centers maintain backup inventory, our in-store inventory requirements are reduced, and we operate smaller gross square footage stores than would otherwise be required. A smaller store size reduces our rental costs and provides us with greater opportunity to locate stores closer to our target customers.

        Beginning in 2006, we increased our focus on improving our North American Delivery supply chain to support our rapid growth and ensure excellent customer service. We are implementing a series of projects as part of a multi-year program to reduce inventory while maintaining strong performance in our perfect order metric. Our goals are to drive inventory turn improvement; reduce the number of trips per order; leverage logistics expense; increase product margins by stocking more inventory in our own facilities and driving down shrink and damages in our network; drive greater efficiency and throughput in our fulfillment centers; and give our customers more control over how Staples services them.

        More recently, we have begun to address supply chain improvement opportunities in our European operations. In 2007, in the United Kingdom, we opened a state of the art distribution center, improving service levels, lowering costs by developing our central distribution capabilities, and replacing less efficient practices of vendors delivering directly to retail stores. We continue to evaluate opportunities for process improvement in our supply chain practices throughout our International operations.

5

Marketing

        We pursue a variety of marketing strategies to maintain high brand awareness, and attract and retain our target customers. These strategies include broad-based media advertising such as television, radio, newspaper circulars, print, and Internet advertising, as well as catalogs, e-mail marketing, loyalty programs, and sophisticated direct marketing capabilities. In addition, we market to larger companies through a combination of direct mail catalogs, customized catalogs, and a field sales force. We change our level of marketing spend, as well as the mix of media employed depending upon market, customer value, seasonal focus, competition, and cost factors. This flexible approach allows us to optimize the effectiveness and efficiency of our marketing expenditures.

        Our marketing message focuses on the communication of our brand promise: we make buying office products easy. The look and feel of our advertising vehicles reflect our "Easy" brand promise, and we are consistently communicating the brand across all channels and customer touch points, including our signage, television commercials, product placement on national television programs, catalogs, web sites, circulars, direct marketing, and store uniforms.

        Our retail, catalog and Staples.com marketing efforts generally focus on small businesses and home offices. Our marketing strategies emphasize our strong brand and leverage all of our retail and delivery vehicles to send a consistent message to our core customers. We also target our back-to-school, holiday, and tax-time selling seasons, and drive greater awareness and trial of important growth initiatives such as copy and print services and Staples EasyTech. We continue to improve our systems and capabilities to track our customers' multi-channel purchasing behaviors and to execute more effective direct marketing and customer loyalty programs to drive higher sales across all our channels. In 2007, we relaunched our Staples Rewards program to create a more compelling offer to customers. The enhanced program gives members 10% back in rewards on purchases of ink and toner, paper, and copy center services, which are the products and services our core customers buy most frequently.

Associates and Training

        We have a strong corporate culture that values ethics, high performance, entrepreneurship, and teamwork. We place great importance on recruiting, training, retaining, and providing the proper incentives for high quality associates. Offering attractive career opportunities and a commitment to a diverse and safe work environment, we pride ourselves on being a workplace of choice.

        We consider customer relations and our associates' knowledge of office products and related capital goods to be significant to our marketing approach and our ability to deliver customer satisfaction. Associates are trained in a number of areas, including, where appropriate, sales techniques, management skills, and product knowledge.

        As of February 2, 2008, Staples employed 43,048 full-time and 32,540 part-time associates.

Corporate Values

        Staples is committed to responsible corporate citizenship, or what we refer to internally as Staples Soul. Staples Soul is a holistic approach to business that recognizes the close connection between our financial success and our desire to make a positive impact on our associates, communities, and the planet. We believe that by practicing sound ethics, sustaining the environment, embracing diversity, and giving back to the community, we will solidify our place as the world's best office products company.

        Ethics—Ethics at Staples is more than a set of policies on paper. It is part of our culture. Staples maintains ethical business practices by encouraging open and honest communication and giving associates practical tools to make sound decisions. We conduct ethics training around the world to help our associates understand that their actions have an impact on other associates, our customers, our suppliers, and our shareholders. Our training identifies ethical dilemmas that associates might face, and provides information on the many ways associates can get help and report concerns. In doing this, we ensure that Staples associates act in the best interest of the company and protect our brand reputation.

        Environment—Staples makes it easy for our customers, suppliers and associates to make a difference. We are committed to offering a broad selection of environmentally preferable products, providing easy recycling solutions for customers and associates, investing in renewable energy and energy conservation, and supporting environmental education efforts. These initiatives help preserve natural resources for future generations, while helping meet customer needs, create operational efficiencies, and spark new business opportunities.

        Diversity—Diversity at Staples goes beyond race and gender. We believe our workforce and our suppliers must reflect the face of our customers. Therefore, we strive to offer an inclusive business environment that offers diversity of

6


people, thought, experience, and suppliers. Our diverse workforce and network of suppliers deepens our relationships with our customers, gives us the flexibility to react to the ever changing marketplace, and inspires us to think more creatively as a company.

        Community—Staples is committed to supporting charitable endeavors that make a difference in each and every community where we operate. Through Staples Foundation for Learning, national charitable partnerships, and in-kind donations, we support communities worldwide by providing resources to non-profit organizations that provide educational opportunities for all people, with a special emphasis on disadvantaged youth. Since 2002, Staples Foundation for Learning has been a national supporter of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. In 2006, Staples partnered with its first global charity, Ashoka's Youth Venture program, which empowers young adults to act as positive agents for social change in their communities.

Competition

        We compete with a variety of retailers, dealers and distributors in the highly competitive office products market. We compete in most of our geographic markets with other high-volume office supply chains, including Office Depot and OfficeMax, as well as mass merchants such as Wal-Mart, warehouse clubs such as Costco, computer and electronics superstores such as Best Buy, copy and print businesses such as FedEx Kinko's, ink cartridge specialty stores, and other discount retailers. In addition, both our retail stores and delivery operations compete with numerous mail order firms, contract stationers, electronic commerce distributors, regional and local dealers and direct manufacturers. Many of our competitors have increased their presence in our markets in recent years. Some of our current and potential competitors are larger than we are and have substantially greater financial resources.

        We believe we are able to compete favorably against other high-volume office supply chains, mass merchants and other retailers, dealers and distributors because of several factors: our focus on the business customer and home office; our tenured management team's ability to respond to the dynamic markets in which we operate and the changing needs of our customers; courteous, helpful and knowledgeable associates focused on making it easy for customers to buy office products and services; a wide assortment of office supplies that are in-stock and easy to find; fast checkout; easy to use web sites; reliability and speed of order shipment; convenient store locations; hassle-free returns and fair prices.

Trademarks, Patents, Copyrights, and Domain Names

        We own or have applied to register numerous trademarks and service marks in the United States and throughout the world in connection with our businesses. Some of our principal global and regional marks include Staples, the Staples red brick logo, Staples the Office Superstore, the Easy Button, "that was easy", Quill, the Quill feather logo and many other marks incorporating "Staples", which in the aggregate, we consider to be of material importance to our business. While the duration of trademark registrations varies from country to country, trademarks are generally valid and may be renewed indefinitely so long as they are in use and their registrations are properly maintained.

        We own and maintain a number of patents internationally on certain products, systems and designs. We also own copyrights for items such as packaging, promotional materials and in-store graphics. In addition, we have registered and maintain numerous Internet domain names, including many that incorporate "Staples".

Available Information

        We maintain a web site with the address www.staples.com. We are not including the information contained on our web site as a part of, or incorporating it by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We make available free of charge through our web site our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish such material to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

        We were organized in 1985 and are incorporated in Delaware.

Corporate Express Proposal

        On February 19, 2008, we announced that we had made a proposal to Corporate Express NV ("Corporate Express"), a Dutch office products distributor with operations in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, to acquire all of the outstanding shares of its ordinary stock for cash consideration of 7.25 Euros per ordinary share, representing a total enterprise value of approximately 2.5 billion Euros (approximately $3.7 billion). Corporate Express, in a public statement issued the same day, rejected our proposal.

7


EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

        Our executive officers, their respective ages and positions as of February 29, 2008 and a description of their business experience is set forth below. There are no family relationships among any of the executive officers named below.

Kristin A. Campbell, age 46

Joseph G. Doody, age 55

Christine T. Komola, age 40

John J. Mahoney, age 56

Michael A. Miles, age 46

Demos Parneros, age 45

Ronald L. Sargent, age 52


FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

        This Annual Report on Form 10-K and, in particular, the description of our Business set forth in Item 1 and our Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations set forth in Appendix B contain or incorporate a number of forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("the Exchange Act"), including statements regarding:

8

        In addition, any statements contained in or incorporated by reference into this report that are not statements of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements. You can identify these forward-looking statements by use of the words "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "plans," "may," "will," "would," "intends," "estimates," and other similar expressions, whether in the negative or affirmative. We cannot guarantee that we actually will achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements made. There are a number of important risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those set forth below under the heading "Risk Factors." Forward-looking statements, like all statements in this report, speak only as of the date of this report (unless another date is indicated). We disclaim any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

        Our market is highly competitive and we may not continue to compete successfully.

        The office products market is highly competitive. We compete with a variety of local, regional, national and international retailers, dealers and distributors for customers, associates, locations, products, services, and other important aspects of our business. In most of our geographic markets, we compete with other high-volume office supply chains such as Office Depot and OfficeMax, as well as mass merchants such as Wal-Mart, warehouse clubs such as Costco, computer and electronics superstores such as Best Buy, copy and print businesses such as FedEx Kinko's, ink cartridge specialty stores, and other discount retailers. Our retail stores and delivery operations also compete with numerous mail order firms, contract stationer businesses, electronic commerce distributors, regional and local dealers, and direct manufacturers.

        We strive to differentiate ourselves from our competitors in part by executing our brand promise; we make buying office products easy. This involves, among other things, offering our customers a broad selection of products, convenient store locations, and reliable and fast order delivery. Many of our competitors, however, have increased their presence in our markets in recent years by expanding their assortment of office products and services, opening new stores near our existing stores, and offering direct delivery of office products. Some of our current and potential competitors are larger than we are and have substantially greater financial resources that may be devoted to sourcing, promoting and selling their products. If we fail to execute on our brand promise or are otherwise unable to differentiate ourselves from our competitors, we may be unable to attract and retain customers.

        Our operating results are impacted by the health of the North American, European, Asian and South American economies. Our business and financial performance may be adversely affected by current and future economic conditions that cause a decline in business and consumer spending, including a reduction in the availability of credit,

9

increased unemployment levels, higher energy costs, rising interest rates, financial market volatility, recession, and acts of terrorism.

        We may be unable to continue to open new stores and enter new markets successfully.

        An important part of our business plan is to increase our number of stores and enter new geographic markets. We currently plan to open approximately 115 new stores in North America, Europe and Asia during the 2008 fiscal year. For our growth strategy to be successful, we must identify favorable store sites, negotiate leases on acceptable terms, hire and train qualified associates and adapt management and operational systems to meet the needs of our expanded operations. These tasks may be difficult to accomplish successfully, especially as we allocate time and resources to managing the profitability of our large existing portfolio of stores and renewing our existing store leases on acceptable terms. In addition, local zoning and other land use regulations may prevent or delay the opening of new stores in some markets. If we are unable to open new stores as quickly as planned, our future sales and profits may be adversely affected.

        Our expansion strategy includes opening new stores in markets where we already have a presence so we can take advantage of economies of scale in marketing, distribution and supervision costs. These new stores may draw customers away from existing stores in nearby areas causing customer traffic and comparable store sales performance to decline at those existing stores. Our expansion strategy also includes opening stores in new markets where customers may not be familiar with our brand, we may not be familiar with local customer preferences or our competitors may have a large, established market presence. Even if we succeed in opening new stores, these new stores may not achieve the same sales or profit levels as our existing stores and may reduce our overall profitability.

        Our business has grown dramatically over the past several years. While we cannot provide any assurances about our future sales or earnings, we anticipate that our business will continue to grow organically and through strategic acquisitions. Accordingly, sales of our products and services, the number of stores that we operate, the number of countries in which we conduct business and the number of associates have grown, and we expect they will continue to grow. This growth places significant demands on management and operational systems. If we cannot effectively expand and support our operational and financial systems, increase and manage our associate base, and share critical information and best practices across different business groups and geographies, this growth is likely to result in operational inefficiencies and ineffective management of the business. In addition, as we grow, our business is subject to a wider array of complex state, federal and international regulations, and may be increasingly the target of private actions alleging violations of such regulations. This increases the cost of doing business and the risk that our business practices could unknowingly result in liabilities that may adversely affect our business and financial performance.

        Our retail and delivery customers value courteous and knowledgeable associates, and an important part of our "Easy" brand strategy is providing our customers with a positive customer service experience. Accordingly, our performance is dependent on attracting and retaining a large and growing number of qualified associates. We face intense competition for qualified associates. We face even tighter labor markets as we expand into emerging markets such as India and China. Many of our associates are in entry-level or part-time positions with historically high rates of turnover. Our ability to meet our labor needs generally while controlling our labor costs is subject to numerous external factors, including the availability of a sufficient number of qualified persons in the workforce, unemployment levels, prevailing wage rates, changing demographics, health and other insurance costs and changes in employment legislation. In addition, as our workforce expands, we are subject to greater scrutiny by private litigants regarding compliance with local and national labor regulations, which in turn increases our labor costs. If we are unable to attract and retain a sufficient number of qualified associates or our labor costs increase significantly, our business and financial performance may be adversely affected.

        Our operating results have fluctuated from quarter to quarter in the past, and we expect that they will continue to do so in the future. Factors that could cause these quarterly fluctuations include: the mix of products sold; pricing actions of competitors; the level of advertising and promotional expenses; the outcome of legal proceedings; seasonality, primarily because the sales and profitability of our stores are typically slightly lower in the first half of the year than in the second half of the year, which includes the back-to-school and holiday seasons; severe weather; and the other risk factors described in this section. Most of our operating expenses, such as rent expense and associate salaries, do not vary directly

10

with the amount of sales and are difficult to adjust in the short term. As a result, if sales in a particular quarter are below expectations for that quarter, we may not proportionately reduce operating expenses for that quarter, and therefore such a sales shortfall would have a disproportionate effect on our net income for the quarter.

        Our expanding international operations expose us to the unique risks inherent in foreign operations.

        We currently operate in 21 different countries outside the United States and may enter new international markets. Operating in multiple countries requires that we comply with multiple foreign laws and regulations that may differ substantially from country to country and may conflict with corresponding U.S. laws and regulations. Ensuring such compliance may require that we implement new operational systems and financial controls that may be expensive and divert management's time from implementing our growth strategies. In addition, cultural differences and differences in the business climate in our international markets may cause customers to be less receptive to our business model than we expect. Other factors that may also have an adverse impact on our international operations include increased local competition, foreign currency fluctuations, unfavorable foreign trade policies and unstable political and economic conditions.

        Our business may be adversely affected by the actions of and risks associated with our third-party vendors.

        The products we sell are sourced from a wide variety of third-party vendors. We cannot control the supply, design, function or cost of many of the products that we offer for sale and are dependent on the availability and pricing of key products, including paper, ink, toner and technology products. Disruptions in the availability of raw materials used in the production of these products may adversely affect our sales and result in customer dissatisfaction. In addition, global sourcing of many of the products we sell is an important factor in our financial performance. Our ability to find qualified vendors and access products in a timely and efficient manner is a significant challenge, especially with respect to goods sourced outside the United States. Political instability, the financial instability of suppliers, merchandise quality issues, trade restrictions, tariffs, foreign currency exchange rates, transport capacity and costs, inflation and other factors relating to foreign trade are beyond our control. These and other issues affecting our vendors could adversely affect our business and financial performance.

        Our expanded offering of proprietary branded products may not improve our financial performance and may expose us to intellectual property and product liability claims.

        Our product offering includes Staples, Quill and other proprietary branded products, which together represented approximately 22% of our total sales in fiscal 2007. Our proprietary branded products compete with other manufacturers' branded items that we offer. As we continue to increase the number and types of proprietary branded products that we sell, we may adversely affect our relationships with our vendors, who may decide to reduce their product offerings through Staples and increase their product offerings through our competitors. An increase in our proprietary branded product offerings also may increase the risk that third parties will assert infringement claims against us with respect to such products. In addition, if any of our customers are harmed by our proprietary branded products, they may bring product liability and other claims against us. Any of these circumstances could damage our reputation and have an adverse effect on our business and financial performance.

        Our debt level and operating lease commitments may impact our ability to obtain future financing and continue our growth strategy.

        Our consolidated debt and operating lease obligations may have the effect generally of restricting our flexibility in responding to changing market conditions and could make us more vulnerable in the event of a downturn in our business. In addition, our level of indebtedness combined with the recent tightening of the global credit market may have other important consequences, including: restricting our growth; making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations; limiting our ability to borrow additional amounts for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, future acquisitions or other corporate purposes; and limiting our ability to use operating cash flow in other areas of our business. In such a situation, additional funds may not be available on satisfactory terms when needed, or at all, whether in the next twelve months or thereafter.

        We are a multi-national, multi-channel provider of office products and services. As a result, our effective tax rate is derived from a combination of applicable tax rates in the various countries, states and other jurisdictions in which we operate. Our effective tax rate may be lower or higher than our tax rates have been in the past due to numerous factors, including the sources of our income, any agreements we may have with taxing authorities in various jurisdictions, and the

11

tax filing positions we take in various jurisdictions. We base our estimate of an effective tax rate at any given point in time upon a calculated mix of the tax rates applicable to our company and to estimates of the amount of business likely to be done in any given jurisdiction. The loss of one or more agreements with taxing jurisdictions, a change in the mix of our business from year to year and from country to country, changes in rules related to accounting for income taxes, changes in tax laws in any of the multiple jurisdictions in which we operate, or adverse outcomes from tax audits that we may be subject to in any of the jurisdictions in which we operate, could result in an unfavorable change in our effective tax rate which could have an adverse effect on our business and results of our operations.

        Through our sales and marketing activities, we collect and store certain personal information that our customers provide to purchase products or services, enroll in promotional programs, register on our website, or otherwise communicate and interact with us. We also gather and retain information about our associates in the normal course of business. We may share information about such persons with vendors that assist with certain aspects of our business. Despite instituted safeguards for the protection of such information, we cannot be certain that all of our systems are entirely free from vulnerability to attack. Computer hackers may attempt to penetrate our or our vendors' network security and, if successful, misappropriate confidential customer or business information. In addition, a Staples associate, contractor or other third party with whom we do business may attempt to circumvent our security measures in order to obtain such information or inadvertently cause a breach involving such information. Loss of customer or business information could disrupt our operations, damage our reputation, and expose us to claims from customers, financial institutions, payment card associations and other persons, any of which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, compliance with tougher privacy and information security laws and standards may result in significant expense due to increased investment in technology and the development of new operational processes.

        Various legal proceedings may adversely affect our business and financial performance.

        We are involved in various legal proceedings, which include consumer, employment, intellectual property, tort and other litigation. Some of these legal proceedings are discussed in greater detail under the caption "Legal Proceedings" and in Note F in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this report. The resolution of these legal proceedings could require us to pay substantial amounts of money or take actions that adversely affect our operations. In addition, defending against these proceedings may involve significant time and expense. Given the large size of our operations and workforce, the visibility of our brand and our position as an industry leader, we may regularly be involved in legal proceedings that could adversely affect our business and financial performance.

        We may not consummate our proposed acquisition of Corporate Express or realize any benefits if we do complete the acquisition.

        On February 19, 2008, we announced that we had made a proposal to Corporate Express NV, a Dutch office products distributor with operations in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand to acquire all of the outstanding shares of its ordinary stock for cash consideration of 7.25 Euros per ordinary share, representing a total enterprise value of approximately 2.5 billion Euros (approximately $3.7 billion). Corporate Express, in a public statement issued the same day, rejected our proposal. We cannot provide any assurances that the proposed acquisition will be consummated. If we are unable to complete the proposed acquisition, we may have incurred substantial expenses and diverted significant management time and resources from our ongoing business. Even if we consummate the proposed acquisition of Corporate Express, we may not realize any of the anticipated benefits of the acquisition, and we may encounter difficulties in the integration of the operations of Corporate Express.


Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

        None.

12


Item 2. Properties

        As of February 2, 2008, we operated a total of 2,038 superstores in 47 states and the District of Columbia in the United States, 10 provinces and 2 territories in Canada, 11 regions in the United Kingdom, 9 regions in Germany and in The Netherlands, Portugal, Belgium and China. As of that same date, we also operated 63 distribution and fulfillment centers in 21 states in the United States, 5 provinces in Canada, 2 regions in the United Kingdom, 2 regions in France, and in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Portugal, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, China, Argentina and Brazil. The following table sets forth the locations of our facilities as of February 2, 2008.

RETAIL STORES

Country/State/Province/Region/Territory
   Number of Stores
United States
Alabama   12
Arizona   36
Arkansas   7
California   195
Colorado   18
Connecticut   39
Delaware   7
District of Columbia   2
Florida   78
Georgia   38
Idaho   9
Illinois   53
Indiana   31
Iowa   14
Kansas   3
Kentucky   15
Maine   13
Maryland   44
Massachusetts   72
Michigan   43
Minnesota   2
Mississippi   2
Missouri   9
Montana   8
Nebraska   3
Nevada   1
New Hampshire   23
New Jersey   83
New Mexico   10
New York   131
North Carolina   51
North Dakota   2
Ohio   58
Oklahoma   17
Oregon   19
Pennsylvania   93
Rhode Island   11
South Carolina   18
South Dakota   1
Tennessee   20
Texas   39
Utah   13
Vermont   7
Virginia   41
Washington   29
West Virginia   5
Wisconsin   11
Wyoming   4
   
    1,440
Canada    
Alberta   33
British Columbia   41
Manitoba   9
New Brunswick   9
Newfoundland   3
Nova Scotia   12
Northwest Territories   1
Ontario   111
Prince Edward Island   2
Quebec   67
Saskatchewan   9
Yukon   1
   
    298
United Kingdom    
Anglia   11
Borders   1
Central   30
Granada   16
HTV   9
London   29
Meridien   11
Tyne-Tees   5
West Country   5
Yorkshire   12
Scotland   5
   
    134
Germany    
Baden-Wurttemberg   2
Bayern   5
Bremen   3
Hamburg   10
Hessen   5
Niedersachsen   9
Nordrhein-Westfalen   20
Rheinland-Pfalz   1
Schleswig-Holstein   3
   
    58

The Netherlands
 
47
Portugal   25
Belgium   4
China   32
     
     

13

DISTRIBUTION AND FULFILLMENT CENTERS

Country/State/Province/Region/Territory
   Number of Centers
United States    
California   4
Colorado   1
Connecticut   2
Florida   1
Georgia   2
Illinois   1
Indiana   1
Iowa   1
Kansas   1
Maryland   1
Massachusetts   2
Minnesota   1
New Jersey   1
New York   2
North Carolina   1
Ohio   1
Oregon   1
Pennsylvania   2
South Carolina   1
Texas   2
Wisconsin   1
   
    30
Canada    
Alberta   1
British Columbia   1
Nova Scotia   1
Ontario   2
Quebec   1
   
    6
United Kingdom    
Northamptonshire   1
Watling Park   1
   
    2
France    
Ile de France   2
Nord—Pas de Calais   1
   
    3

Austria
 
1
Belgium   1
Denmark   1
Germany   2
Italy   1
Portugal   1
The Netherlands   1
Spain   1
Sweden   1
China   8
Argentina   1
Brazil   3

        Most of the existing facilities are leased by us with initial lease terms expiring on dates between 2008 and 2027. In most instances, we have renewal options at increased rents. Leases for 187 of the existing stores provide for contingent rent based upon sales.

        Our Framingham, Massachusetts corporate office is owned by us and consists of approximately 650,000 square feet.


Item 3. Legal Proceedings

        From time to time, we may be subject to routine litigation incidental to our business.

        We settled various class action lawsuits brought against us for alleged violations of what is known as California's "wage and hour" law. The first of these lawsuits was filed on October 21, 1999. These cases were subsequently consolidated as the "Staples Overtime Cases," Superior Court for the State of California, County of Orange, Civil Complex Center (Judicial Council Coordination Proceeding No. 4235, Lead Case No. 816121). The plaintiffs in the Staples Overtime Cases alleged that we improperly classified store general managers and store assistant managers as exempt under the California wage and hour law, making such managers ineligible for overtime wages. The plaintiffs sought to require us to pay overtime wages to the putative class since October 21, 1995. The general manager and assistant manager classes were certified by the court in November 2005. Staples and the general manager class in the Staples Overtime Cases settled in December 2006 for $3.9 million. The remaining class action lawsuit concerning assistant managers continued. In September 2007, in the United States District for the Central District of California, Frigo v. Staples, Inc., another class and collective action lawsuit was filed, purportedly on behalf of all assistant managers in Staples' California stores, including those individuals who started working for Staples after the previous class action notice was sent to the then current and former assistant managers seeking payment of overtime wages. Subject to court approval, Staples settled with the assistant store manager class in both Frigo and the Staples Overtime Cases on November 19, 2007 for $38.0 million, with the settlements covering a span of twelve years of potential damages, including interest and class counsel's attorneys' fees, for a class of more than 1,700 current and former associates. We anticipate obtaining final court approval of the settlement in April 2008. Staples has not admitted any wrongdoing with respect to either class of associates in these actions.


Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

        No matter was submitted to a vote of our security holders during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.

14


PART II

Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

NASDAQ

        Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol "SPLS". The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the high and low sales prices per share of our common stock on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, as reported by NASDAQ.

 
   High
   Low
Fiscal Year Ended February 2, 2008            
  First Quarter   $ 27.66   $ 24.41
  Second Quarter     26.00     22.81
  Third Quarter     24.28     21.04
  Fourth Quarter     24.85     19.69

Fiscal Year Ended February 3, 2007
 
 
 
 
 
 
  First Quarter   $ 26.79   $ 22.31
  Second Quarter     27.71     21.57
  Third Quarter     27.04     21.08
  Fourth Quarter     28.00     24.94

Cash Dividend

        While we will continue to retain earnings for use in the operation and expansion of our business, in 2004 we decided to return cash to our stockholders by initiating a cash dividend. During our two most recent fiscal years, we paid an annual cash dividend of $0.22 per share of our outstanding common stock on April 20, 2006 and an annual cash dividend of $0.29 per share on April 19, 2007. On March 4, 2008, we announced that we would pay a cash dividend of $0.33 per share on April 17, 2008 to shareholders of record on March 28, 2008. Our payment of dividends is permitted under our revolving credit agreement, which only restricts the payment of dividends in the event we are in default under the agreement or such payout would cause a default under the agreement. While it is our current intention to pay cash dividends in years following 2008, any decision to pay future cash dividends will be made by our Board of Directors and will depend upon our earnings, financial condition and other factors.

15

Stock Performance Graph

        The following graph compares the cumulative total stockholder return on Staples' common stock, the Standard & Poor's 500 Index and the Standard & Poor's Retail Index during our 2003 through 2007 fiscal years, assuming the investment of $100.00 on February 1, 2003 with dividends being reinvested.

LOGO


TOTAL RETURN TO STOCKHOLDERS

 
   1-Feb-03
   31-Jan-04
   29-Jan-05
   28-Jan-06
   3-Feb-07
   2-Feb-08
Staples, Inc   $ 100.00   $ 154.98   $ 188.55   $ 209.70   $ 236.64   $ 216.50
S&P 500 Index   $ 100.00   $ 134.57   $ 142.96   $ 157.79   $ 180.70   $ 176.52
S&P Retail Index   $ 100.00   $ 148.05   $ 170.19   $ 186.12   $ 212.02   $ 177.21

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

        The following table provides information about our purchases during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 of equity securities that are registered by the Company pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act.

Fiscal Period
   Total Number of Shares Purchased(1)
   Average Price Paid per Share(2)
   Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs(3)
   Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(3)
November 4, 2007—December 1, 2007   2,053,700   $ 21.32   2,053,700   $ 1,211,597,000
December 2, 2007—January 5, 2008   2,646,982   $ 23.11   2,632,750   $ 1,150,766,000
January 6, 2008—February 2, 2008   3,579,048   $ 21.80   3,577,400   $ 1,072,773,000
   
 
 
 
Total Fourth Quarter of Fiscal 2007   8,279,730   $ 22.10   8,263,850   $ 1,072,773,000
   
 
 
 
(1)
Includes a total of 15,880 shares of our common stock withheld during the fourth quarter of our 2007 fiscal year to satisfy minimum statutory tax withholding obligations in connection with the vesting of restricted stock awards granted pursuant to our equity incentive plans.

(2)
Average price paid per share includes commissions paid in connection with our publicly announced share repurchase programs and is rounded to the nearest two decimal places.

16

(3)
On June 14, 2007, we announced that our Board of Directors approved the repurchase of up to $1.5 billion of common stock. Our existing October 2005 share repurchase program was terminated and replaced by our June 2007 share repurchase program, effective as of the stock market opening on July 9, 2007. The June 2007 share repurchase program has no expiration date.

Other Information

        For information regarding securities authorized for issuance under our equity compensation plans, please see Note H in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

        At February 29, 2008, the number of holders of record of our common stock was 6,765.

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

        The information required by this Item is attached as Appendix A.

Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

        The information required by this Item is attached as part of Appendix B.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

        The information required by this Item is attached as part of Appendix B under the caption "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risks".

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

        The information required by this Item is attached as Appendix C.

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

        None.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

1.     Disclosure Controls and Procedures

        The Company's management, with the participation of the Company's chief executive officer and chief financial officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as of February 2, 2008. The term "disclosure controls and procedures," as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, means controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the company's management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Based on the evaluation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as of February 2, 2008, the Company's chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that, as of such date, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level.

2.     Internal Control over Financial Reporting

17

18

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

  /s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Ernst & Young LLP

19

Item 9B. Other Information

        None.


PART III

        Certain information required by Part III is omitted from this Annual Report on Form 10-K and incorporated herein by reference to the definitive proxy statement with respect to our 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Proxy Statement"), which we will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year covered by this Report.

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

        Certain information required by this Item is contained under the heading "Executive Officers of the Registrant" in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Other information required by this Item will appear under the headings "Proposal 1—Election of Directors", "Shareholder Proposals" and "Corporate Governance" in our Proxy Statement, which sections are incorporated herein by reference.

        The information required by this Item pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K will appear under the heading "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" in our Proxy Statement, which section is incorporated herein by reference.

        We have adopted a written code of ethics that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, and principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions. Our code of ethics, which also applies to our directors and all of our officers and associates, can be found on our web site, which is located at www.staples.com, and is also an exhibit to this report. We intend to make all required disclosures concerning any amendments to, or waivers from, our code of ethics on our web site.

Item 11. Executive Compensation

        The information required by this Item will appear under the headings "Director Compensation" and "Executive Compensation" including "Compensation Discussion and Analysis", "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" and "Compensation Committee Report" in our Proxy Statement, which sections are incorporated herein by reference.

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

        The information required by this Item will appear under the headings "Beneficial Ownership of Common Stock" and "Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans" in our Proxy Statement, which sections are incorporated herein by reference.

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

        The information required by this Item will appear under the headings "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" and "Director Independence" in our Proxy Statement, which sections are incorporated herein by reference.

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

        The information required by this Item will appear under the heading "Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm's Fees" in our Proxy Statement, which section is incorporated herein by reference.

20

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

1.
Financial Statements.    The following financial statements and schedules of Staples, Inc. are included as Appendix C of this Report:

•
Consolidated Balance Sheets—February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007.

•
Consolidated Statements of Income—Fiscal years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007, and January 28, 2006.

•
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity—Fiscal years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007, and January 28, 2006.

•
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows—Fiscal years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007, and January 28, 2006.

•
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

2.
Financial Statement Schedules.

•
Schedule II–Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

        All schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission other than the one listed above are not required under the related instructions or are not applicable, and, therefore, have been omitted.

3.
Exhibits.    The exhibits which are filed or furnished with this report or which are incorporated herein by reference are set forth in the Exhibit Index on page D-1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

21


Signatures

        Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, on March 3, 2008.

    STAPLES, INC.

 
 
By:
/s/  RONALD L. SARGENT      
Ronald L. Sargent,
 Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature
   Capacity
   Date

 
 
 
 
 
/s/  RONALD L. SARGENT      
Ronald L. Sargent		   Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)		   March 3, 2008

/s/  BASIL L. ANDERSON      
Basil L. Anderson
 
Director
 
March 2, 2008

/s/  ARTHUR M. BLANK      
Arthur M. Blank
 
Director
 
February 29, 2008

/s/  MARY ELIZABETH BURTON      
Mary Elizabeth Burton
 
Director
 
February 29, 2008

/s/  JUSTIN KING      
Justin King
 
Director
 
March 1, 2008

/s/  CAROL MEYROWITZ      
Carol Meyrowitz
 
Director
 
February 29, 2008

/s/  ROWLAND T. MORIARTY      
Rowland T. Moriarty
 
Director
 
February 29, 2008

/s/  ROBERT C. NAKASONE      
Robert C. Nakasone
 
Director
 
March 1, 2008

/s/  ROBERT E. SULENTIC      
Robert E. Sulentic
 
Director
 
March 3, 2008

22


/s/  MARTIN TRUST      
Martin Trust
 
Director
 
March 2, 2008

/s/  VIJAY VISHWANATH      
Vijay Vishwanath
 
Director
 
February 29, 2008

/s/  PAUL F. WALSH      
Paul F. Walsh
 
Director
 
March 2, 2008

/s/  JOHN J. MAHONEY      
John J. Mahoney
 
Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
 
March 3, 2008

/s/  CHRISTINE T. KOMOLA      
Christine T. Komola
 
Senior Vice President and Corporate Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)
 
March 3, 2008

23


APPENDIX A


STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
(Dollar Amounts in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)

 
   Fiscal Year Ended
 
   February 2,
2008(2)
(52 weeks)
   February 3,
2007(3)
(53 weeks)
   January 28,
2006
(52 weeks)
   January 29,
2005
(52 weeks)
   January 31,
2004(4)(5)
(52 weeks)
Statement of Income Data:                              
Sales   $ 19,372,682   $ 18,160,789   $ 16,078,852   $ 14,448,378   $ 12,967,022
Gross profit     5,550,671     5,194,001     4,582,618     4,102,322     3,496,036
Net income     995,670     973,677     784,117     664,575     450,211
Basic earnings per common share(1):     1.41     1.35     1.07     0.90     0.62
Diluted earnings per common share(1):     1.38     1.32     1.04     0.87     0.61
Dividends(1)   $ 0.29   $ 0.22   $ 0.17   $ 0.13   $ —
Statistical Data:                              
  Stores open at end of period     2,038     1,884     1,780     1,680     1,559

Balance Sheet Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Working capital   $ 1,945,484   $ 1,642,980   $ 1,664,637   $ 1,584,751   $ 1,355,670
  Total assets     9,036,344     8,397,265     7,732,720     7,127,150     6,564,972
  Total long-term debt, less current portion     342,169     316,465     527,606     557,927     567,433
  Stockholders' equity   $ 5,718,007   $ 5,021,665   $ 4,481,601   $ 4,174,424   $ 3,730,655
(1)
All share and per share amounts reflect, or have been restated to reflect, the three-for-two common stock split that was effected in the form of a common stock dividend distributed on April 15, 2005.

(2)
Results of operations for this period reflect a $38.0 million ($24.3 million net of taxes) charge related to the settlement of California wage and hour class action litigation.

(3)
Results of operations for this period reflect a $33.3 million reduction in income taxes related to the favorable resolution of certain foreign and domestic tax matters and a $10.8 million charge ($8.6 million net of taxes), to correct the measurement dates used to calculate prior years' stock-based compensation.

(4)
Results of operations for this period have been reclassified to conform with EITF Issue No. 03-10, "Application of Issue No. 02-16 by Resellers to Sales Incentives Offered to Consumers by Manufacturers", which requires that vendor consideration received in the form of sales incentives be recorded as a reduction of cost of goods sold when recognized, rather than as a component of sales. As a result of this reclassification and a reclassification of certain other coupons, sales, gross profit and operating and selling expenses decreased, but there was no impact on net income.

(5)
Results of operations for this period reflect a $98.0 million ($61.7 million net of taxes) non-cash adjustment for the inclusion of cooperative advertising and other performance based rebates in inventory as required by EITF Issue No. 02-16, "Accounting by a Customer (Including a Reseller) for Certain Consideration Received from a Vendor".

The Company's fiscal year is the 52 or 53 weeks ending the Saturday closest to January 31. Results of operations include the results of acquired businesses since the relevant acquisition date.

A-1


APPENDIX B

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations

General

        Our fiscal year is the 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Saturday closest to January 31. Fiscal year 2007 consisted of the 52 weeks ended February 2, 2008, fiscal year 2006 consisted of the 53 weeks ended February 3, 2007 and fiscal year 2005 consisted of the 52 weeks ended January 28, 2006. In order to enhance comparability between fiscal 2006 and other fiscal years presented in this discussion, certain operational measures for fiscal 2006 are accompanied by a presentation of such measure after removing the estimated effect of the 53rd week in fiscal 2006. Management also uses such adjusted operational measures to evaluate our core operating results against plan, to compare our performance to that of our competitors, and to provide earnings guidance to the investing community. Our comparable store sales include stores open for more than one year and exclude sales related to the 53rd week in 2006.

Overview

        Fiscal 2007 was a year of continued growth for us. We exceeded $19.3 billion in sales, with sales growth of 6.7% compared to the 53 week year in 2006. Our overall results for 2007 were solid, as we continued to execute our business strategy and make significant investments to improve our business during a time of slower economic growth. Major contributors to our 2007 results are summarized below and reviewed further in the Consolidated Performance and Outlook and Segment Performance discussions.

Results of Operations

        We have provided below a summary of our operating results at the consolidated level, followed by an overview of our segment performance. Our discussion includes our results presented on the basis required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP").

        Net income for 2007 was $995.7 million or $1.38 per diluted share compared to $973.7 million or $1.32 per diluted share for 2006 and $784.1 million or $1.04 per diluted share for 2005. Earnings per diluted share increased 5% for 2007 and 27% for 2006. Our results for 2007 include a $24.3 million charge, net of taxes ($0.04 per diluted share) related to the settlement of California wage and hour class action litigation (see Note F in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements). Our results for 2006 include a $33.3 million ($0.05 per diluted share) reduction in income taxes related to the favorable resolution of certain foreign and domestic tax matters, and an $8.6 million charge, net of taxes ($0.01 per diluted share) to correct the measurement dates used to calculate prior years' stock-based compensation (see Note H in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements). In addition, our results for 2006 include the impact of the 53rd week on net earnings of approximately $0.04 per diluted share.

        We achieved the results for 2007 by continuing to execute our strategy of driving profitable sales growth, improving profit margins, and increasing asset productivity. This includes delivering on our "Easy" brand promise to make buying

B-1

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations (Continued)


office products easy for our customers in order to differentiate us from our competitors. Our commitment to customer service, focus on higher margin Staples brand products, strong results in our copy and print center business, the continued success of our customer acquisition efforts, and expense control drove our results in 2007.

        We strive to maintain a balance between investing for our long-term growth, and delivering strong current earnings growth. We continue to expand our market share by growing our existing businesses, developing new growth ideas, and strengthening our global presence. Initiatives to grow our existing businesses include: focusing on our copy and print centers and our delivery businesses; broadening our product and service offerings; and entering new geographic markets. New growth ideas include experimenting with new store formats such as stand-alone copy and print shops, and developing innovative products. To strengthen our global presence, we are investing in our existing businesses in Europe and making targeted investments in high potential markets in Asia and South America, which we expect to become meaningful contributors to our long-term growth.

        Assuming a return to a healthy economic environment, our long term expectations are to grow sales 10 - 15% and to grow earnings per share 15 - 20%. Amid the current weak economic climate in North America and anticipation that the European economy may soften further, we are more cautious about our sales and earnings prospects for 2008. While maintaining our focus on expense control, we are also continuing to invest in new strategic initiatives and customer service programs to ensure our long term success. As of the date of this filing, we anticipate sales in fiscal 2008 to grow in the mid single digits, and we expect earnings per share to grow in the low double digits compared to GAAP earnings per share in 2007, which include the impact of the California wage and hour class action litigation settlement. Our guidance for future periods excludes any potential impact relating to our previously announced proposal to acquire all the outstanding ordinary shares of Corporate Express. As with all forward looking statements made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we do not intend to update publicly any of the forward-looking statements in this paragraph.

        Sales:    Sales increased 6.7% in fiscal 2007 and 12.9% in fiscal 2006. Sales for 2006 include $369.8 million related to the additional week in 2006. Excluding the additional week in 2006, sales increased 8.9% in 2007 and 10.6% in 2006. Comparable sales for our North American Retail locations decreased 3% in 2007 and increased 3% in 2006 and comparable sales for our International retail locations increased 2% in 2007 and 3% in 2006. We had a net addition of 154 stores in 2007, a net addition of 104 stores in 2006, and a net addition of 100 stores in 2005. North American Delivery sales increased 11.9% in fiscal 2007 and 19.0% in 2006. North American Delivery's sales for 2006 include $129.6 million related to the additional week in 2006. Excluding the additional week, sales increased 14.4% in 2007 and 16.3% in 2006. Total International sales increased 16.1% in fiscal 2007 and 12.6% in 2006.

        Our sales growth in both 2007 and 2006 primarily reflects increases in sales of core office supplies, ink and toner, paper, computers, and our copy and print center business, our continued focus on customer service, and the continued success of our customer acquisition and retention efforts in our North American Delivery business. The increase in total sales also reflects the positive impact of foreign currency rates of $404 million in 2007 and $185 million in 2006.

        Gross Profit:    Gross profit as a percentage of sales was 28.7% for fiscal 2007, 28.6% for fiscal 2006 and 28.5% for fiscal 2005. The increase in the gross profit rate for 2007 from 2006 is primarily due to an improvement in product margin rate in our North American Retail and International segments along with improvements in North American Delivery supply chain, partially offset by deleverage in fixed occupancy costs on a decrease in comparable store sales in North American Retail. The increase in the gross profit rate for 2006 from 2005 reflects increased sales in higher margin categories including office supplies, copy and print services and Staples brand products as well as supply chain efficiencies. Our positive 2006 results were partially offset by the costs associated with the opening of our new fulfillment centers.

        Operating and Selling Expenses:    Operating and selling expenses, which consist of payroll, advertising and other operating expenses, were 16.2% of sales for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006, and 16.5% of sales for fiscal 2005. Operating expenses as a percentage of sales were flat for 2007, primarily reflecting our continued focus on process improvement and expense control, and lower variable compensation, offset by deleverage in fixed expenses on decreasing comparable store sales in North American Retail and the added leverage of the 53rd week in fiscal 2006. The decrease in operating expenses as a percentage of sales for 2006 primarily reflects focus on process improvement and expense control, and

B-2

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations (Continued)


leveraging of fixed expenses on higher sales including the added leverage of the 53rd week of sales, partially offset by investments in marketing and customer service.

        General and Administrative:    General and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales were 4.4% for fiscal 2007, 4.2% for fiscal 2006 and 4.3% for fiscal 2005. The increase for 2007 reflects the $38.0 million charge related to the settlement of the California wage and hour class action litigation, the impact of increased depreciation relating to prior years' investments in information systems, and the added leverage of the 53rd week in fiscal 2006, partially offset by our continued focus on process improvement and expense control, and lower variable compensation. The decrease for 2006 primarily reflects strong expense control and leveraging of fixed expenses on higher sales, including the added leverage of the 53rd week of sales, partially offset by an increase in stock-based compensation.

        Amortization of Intangibles:    Amortization of intangibles was $15.7 million in fiscal 2007, $14.4 million in fiscal 2006 and $13.0 million in fiscal 2005, reflecting the amortization of certain trade names, customer-related intangible assets and non-competition agreements associated with acquisitions.

        Interest income:    Interest income decreased to $46.7 million in fiscal 2007 from $58.8 million in fiscal 2006 and $59.9 million in fiscal 2005. The decrease in interest income for 2007 and 2006 is due to the reduction in our average cash and short-term investment portfolio balance, partially offset by an increase in interest rates.

        Interest expense:    Interest expense decreased to $38.3 million in fiscal 2007 from $47.8 million in fiscal 2006 and $56.8 million in fiscal 2005. The decrease in interest expense for 2007 is primarily due to the repayment of our $200.0 million 7.125% senior notes in August 2007, partially offset by higher interest rates. The decrease in interest expense for 2006 is primarily due to a reduction in average borrowings for our International Operations segment in 2006 compared to 2005, partially offset by higher interest rates. We use swap agreements to convert our fixed rate debt obligations into variable rate obligations. As a result of rising interest rates, these interest rate swap agreements had a negative impact on interest expense in 2007 and 2006. Excluding the impact of our interest rate swap agreements, interest expense would have been $ 36.0 million for 2007, $47.2 million for 2006 and $63.7 million for 2005.

        Miscellaneous expense:    Miscellaneous expense was $2.2 million for fiscal 2007, $2.8 million for fiscal 2006 and $1.9 million for fiscal 2005. These amounts primarily reflect foreign exchange gains and losses recorded in the respective periods.

        Income Taxes:    Our effective tax rate was 36.0% for fiscal 2007, 33.8% for fiscal 2006 and 36.5% for fiscal 2005. Our effective tax rate for 2006 reflects an adjustment for a change in estimate regarding certain tax uncertainties as well as the favorable resolution of certain foreign and domestic tax matters, which were recorded as discrete items in the third quarter of that year. Our effective tax rate for 2006 applicable to results from continuing operations, excluding the impact of discrete items, was 36.0%.

        Our business is comprised of three segments: North American Retail, North American Delivery and International Operations. Our North American Retail segment consists of the U.S. and Canadian business units that operate office products stores. The North American Delivery segment consists of the U.S. and Canadian business units that sell and deliver office products and services directly to customers, and includes Staples Business Delivery, Quill, and Contract. The International Operations segment consists of operating units that operate office products stores and that sell and deliver office products and services directly to customers in 20 countries in Europe, Asia and South America. Additional geographic information about our sales is provided in Note K in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

        The following tables provide a summary of our sales and business unit income by reportable segment, and store activity for the last three fiscal years. Business unit income excludes stock-based compensation, interest and other expense, income taxes, the impact of changes in accounting principles and non-recurring items (see reconciliation of total

B-3

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations (Continued)


segment income to consolidated income before income taxes and minority interest in Note K in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements):

 
   (Amounts in thousands)
    
    
  
Sales
   2007
Increase From
Prior Year
   2006
Increase From
Prior Year
  
  2007
   2006
   2005
  
North American Retail   $ 10,020,941   $ 9,893,107   $ 9,015,851   1.3 % 9.7 %
North American Delivery     6,614,202     5,908,872     4,967,323   11.9 % 19.0 %
International Operations     2,737,539     2,358,810     2,095,678   16.1 % 12.6 %
   
 
 
 
 
 
  Total Segment Sales   $ 19,372,682   $ 18,160,789   $ 16,078,852   6.7 % 12.9 %
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   (Amounts in thousands)
    
    
    
  
Business Unit Income
   2007
% of
Sales
   2006
% of
Sales
   2005
% of
Sales
  
  2007
   2006
   2005
  
North American Retail   $ 949,038   $ 957,386   $ 842,995   9.5 % 9.7 % 9.4 %
North American Delivery     712,558     623,908     507,276   10.8 % 10.6 % 10.2 %
International Operations     97,996     50,511     13,616   3.6 % 2.1 % 0.6 %
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Business Unit Income   $ 1,759,592   $ 1,631,805   $ 1,363,887   9.1 % 9.0 % 8.5 %
Stock-based compensation     (173,343 )   (157,907 )   (129,806 ) 0.9 % 0.9 % 0.8 %
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Total Segment Income   $ 1,586,249   $ 1,473,898   $ 1,234,081   8.2 % 8.1 % 7.7 %
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Store Activity
  
   Stores
Open at
Beginning
of Period
   Stores
Opened
   Net
Stores
Acquired
   Stores
Closed
   Stores
Open at
End
of Period
2005 North American Retail   1,426   99   —   3   1,522
2005 International Operations   254   8   —   4   258
     
 
 
 
 
2005 Total   1,680   107   —   7   1,780
     
 
 
 
 
2006 North American Retail   1,522   99   —   1   1,620
2006 International Operations   258   6   —   —   264
     
 
 
 
 
2006 Total   1,780   105   —   1   1,884
     
 
 
 
 
2007 North American Retail   1,620   120   —   2   1,738
2007 International Operations   264   27   12   3   300
     
 
 
 
 
2007 Total   1,884   147   12   5   2,038
     
 
 
 
 

        North American Retail:    Sales increased 1.3% in fiscal 2007 and 9.7% in fiscal 2006. Sales for 2006 include $209.1 million related to the additional week in 2006. Excluding the additional week in fiscal 2006, sales increased 3.5% in 2007 and 7.4% in 2006. Comparable store sales in North America decreased 3% in 2007 and increased 3% in 2006. Our sales growth in fiscal 2007 primarily reflects non-comparable store sales, partially offset by the decrease in comparable store sales. Our sales growth for fiscal 2006 primarily reflects non-comparable store sales as well as the increase in comparable store sales. The increase in sales also includes the positive impact of the Canadian exchange rate to the U.S. dollar of $161 million in 2007 and $111 million in 2006. Our comparable sales decrease in 2007 reflects negative performance in business machines, furniture and core office supplies, partially offset by positive performance in computers and our copy and print center business. Our comparable sales growth in 2006 reflects positive performance in office supplies, computers, our copy and print business, ink and toner, and computer peripherals.

        Business unit income as a percentage of sales decreased to 9.5% in 2007 from 9.7% in 2006 and 9.4% in 2005. The decrease in business unit income for 2007 primarily reflects deleverage in fixed costs resulting from a decrease in comparable store sales as well as the additional leverage of the 53rd week in 2006, partially offset by decreased variable compensation, an increase in product margin rate, including increased sales in higher margin categories such as Staples brand products and copy and print services, as well as our focus on expense control. The increase in business unit income

B-4

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations (Continued)


for 2006 primarily reflects increased sales in higher margin categories, including copy and print services, office supplies and Staples brand products, as well as supply chain initiatives, expense management and leveraging of fixed expenses on higher sales including the added leverage from the 53rd week of sales. Our 2006 results were partially offset by planned investments in marketing. We also benefited from the positive impact of foreign exchange rates in both 2007 and 2006. We expect to continue to drive improvements in North American Retail through delivering on our "Easy" brand promise, focusing on our Staples brand products, expanding our copy and print center business, entering new geographic markets, and continuing to develop innovative products.

        North American Delivery:    Sales increased 11.9% in fiscal 2007 and 19.0% in fiscal 2006. Sales for 2006 include $ 129.6 million related to the additional week in 2006. Excluding the additional week in fiscal 2006, sales increased 14.4% in 2007 and 16.3% in 2006. The sales growth in 2007 reflects the continued success of our customer acquisition and retention efforts, increased penetration of existing customers, non-comparable sales from our recent acquisitions and more effective marketing spend. The sales growth in 2006 reflects the continued success of our customer acquisition and retention efforts, increased penetration of existing customers, and more effective marketing spend.

        Business unit income as a percentage of sales increased to 10.8% in 2007 from 10.6% in 2006 and 10.2% in 2005. The increase in 2007 primarily reflects improvement in our supply chain and more efficient and effective marketing spend to acquire and retain customers, partially offset by our investments in growth initiatives. The increase in 2006 primarily reflects more efficient and effective marketing spend, our continued focus on higher margin Staples brand products, and our supply chain efforts focused on improving our perfect order metric and decreasing the number of trips per order. During 2008, we plan to focus on growing sales in all of our delivery businesses through our customer acquisition, product penetration, and customer retention initiatives. We plan to focus on continuing to drive profit improvements through our supply chain programs, service improvements and our own brand initiatives.

        International Operations:    Sales increased 16.1% in fiscal 2007 and 12.6% in fiscal 2006. Sales for 2006 include $31.1 million related to the additional week in 2006. Excluding the additional week in fiscal 2006, sales increased 17.6% in 2007 and 11.1% in 2006. Comparable store sales in Europe increased 2% in 2007 and 3% in 2006. The sales growth in 2007 reflects the positive impact of foreign exchange rates to the U.S. dollar of $222 million, growth in local currency in our International delivery businesses, the increase in comparable store sales as well as non-comparable store sales for stores opened in 2007. The sales growth in 2006 reflects growth in local currency in our International delivery businesses, the positive impact of foreign exchange rates to the U.S. dollar of $61 million, the increase in comparable store sales as well as non-comparable store sales for stores opened in 2006.

        Business unit income increased $47.5 million in fiscal 2007 and increased $36.9 million in fiscal 2006. The increase in 2007 primarily reflects sales growth and improvement in product margin rates due to mix, better buying and own brand penetration in our European retail business, along with our continued focus on expense control. The improvement for 2006 reflects 2005 costs associated with the integration of the Office World stores and the integration of our two delivery businesses in the United Kingdom, which reduced business unit income for 2005, as well as improved sales and focus on expense management across our international businesses. We believe that we have a significant opportunity to grow our International business by expanding our multi-channel offering in our existing European businesses, and growing our businesses in high potential markets in Asia and South America.

        Stock-Based Compensation:    Stock-based compensation, excluding the charge recorded in fiscal 2006 for the correction of measurement dates used to calculate prior years' stock-based compensation (see Note H in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements), increased to $173.3 million in fiscal 2007 from $157.9 million in fiscal 2006 and $129.8 million in fiscal 2005. Stock-based compensation includes expenses associated with our employee stock purchase plans, the issuance of stock options, restricted shares, performance share awards, as well as the company match in the employee 401(k) savings plan. The increase in this expense for 2007 and 2006 is primarily related to changes in the mix of equity awards granted.

Critical Accounting Policies and Significant Estimates

        Our financial statements are based on the application of significant accounting policies, many of which require management to make significant estimates and assumptions (see Note A in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial

B-5

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations (Continued)


Statements). We believe that the following are some of the more critical judgment areas in the application of our accounting policies that currently affect our financial condition and results of operations.

        Inventory:    We record inventory at the lower of weighted-average cost or market value. We reserve for obsolete, overstocked and inactive inventory based on the difference between the weighted-average cost of the inventory and the estimated market value using assumptions of future demand and market conditions. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional reserves may be required.

        Purchase and Advertising Rebates:    We earn rebates from our vendors, which are based on various quantitative contract terms that can be complex and subject to interpretation. Amounts expected to be received from vendors relating to the purchase of merchandise inventories and reimbursement of incremental costs, such as advertising, are recognized as a reduction of inventory cost and realized as part of cost of goods sold as the merchandise is sold. Several controls are in place, including direct confirmation with vendors, which we believe allow us to ensure that these amounts are recorded in accordance with the terms of the contracts.

        Impairment of Long-Lived Assets:    We review our long-lived assets for impairment when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flow estimated to be generated by those assets is less than the assets' carrying amount. Our policy is to evaluate long-lived assets for impairment at a store level for retail operations and an operating unit level for our other operations. If actual market conditions are less favorable than management's projections, future write-offs may be necessary.

        Impairment of Goodwill and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets:    Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142 "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" ("SFAS No. 142") requires that we annually review goodwill and other intangible assets that have indefinite lives for impairment and when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of these assets might exceed their current fair values. We determine fair value using discounted cash flow analysis, which requires us to make certain assumptions and estimates regarding industry economic factors and future profitability of acquired businesses. It is our policy to allocate goodwill and conduct impairment testing at the individual business unit level based on our most current business plans, which reflect changes we anticipate in the economy and the industry. If actual results are not consistent with our assumptions and judgments, we could be exposed to a material impairment charge.

        Deferred Taxes:    We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. We have considered estimated future taxable income and ongoing tax planning strategies in assessing the amount needed for the valuation allowance. If actual results differ unfavorably from those estimates used, we may not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax assets and additional valuation allowances may be required.

New Accounting Pronouncements

        In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements" ("SFAS No. 157"). SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of SFAS No. 157 is not expected to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities" ("SFAS No. 159"). SFAS No. 159 allows companies to measure many financial assets and liabilities at fair value. It also establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to facilitate comparisons between companies that choose different measurement attributes for similar types of assets and liabilities. SFAS No. 159 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of SFAS No. 159 is not expected to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

B-6

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations (Continued)

        In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141(R), "Business Combinations" ("SFAS No. 141(R)"). SFAS No. 141(R) replaces SFAS No. 141, "Business Combinations", but retains the requirement that the purchase method of accounting for acquisitions be used for all business combinations. SFAS No. 141(R) expands on the disclosures previously required by SFAS No. 141, better defines the acquirer and the acquisition date in a business combination, and establishes principles for recognizing and measuring the assets acquired (including goodwill), the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interests in the acquired business. SFAS No. 141(R) also requires an acquirer to record an adjustment to income tax expense for changes in valuation allowances or uncertain tax positions related to acquired businesses. SFAS No. 141(R) is effective for all business combinations with an acquisition date in the first annual period following December 15, 2008; early adoption is not permitted. We will adopt this statement as of February 1, 2009. We are currently evaluating the impact SFAS No. 141(R) will have on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 160, "Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of ARB No. 51" ("SFAS No. 160"). SFAS No. 160 requires that noncontrolling (or minority) interests in subsidiaries be reported in the equity section of the company's balance sheet, rather than in a mezzanine section of the balance sheet between liabilities and equity. SFAS No. 160 also changes the manner in which the net income of the subsidiary is reported and disclosed in the controlling company's income statement. SFAS No. 160 also establishes guidelines for accounting for changes in ownership percentages and for deconsolidation. SFAS No. 160 is effective for financial statements for fiscal years beginning on or after December 1, 2008 and interim periods within those years. The adoption of SFAS No. 160 is not expected to have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Cash Flows

        Cash provided by operations increased to $1.36 billion in fiscal 2007, from $1.15 billion in fiscal 2006 and $1.20 billion in fiscal 2005. The increase in operating cash flow from 2006 to 2007 is primarily due to an increase in net income and non-cash expenses, including depreciation and amortization. The decrease in cash flow from operations from 2005 to 2006 is primarily due to an increase in working capital partially offset by an increase in net income.

        Cash used in investing activities was $217.7 million in fiscal 2007, $424.9 million in fiscal 2006 and $634.1 million in fiscal 2005. The change in cash used in investing activities for 2007 and 2006 is primarily due to fluctuations in our short-term investment portfolio. While maintaining our overall investment guidelines, we shift between cash and cash equivalents, including commercial paper and money markets investments, and short-term investments, including auction rate preferred investments, municipal bonds and Treasury securities as the risk, rates of return and attractiveness of these asset classes change. As of February 2, 2008, our short-term investment portfolio consisted exclusively of treasury securities.

        Cash used in financing activities was $966.2 million in fiscal 2007, $696.6 million in fiscal 2006 and $584.0 million in fiscal 2005. In August 2007, we repaid the outstanding principal and interest due on our $200 million 7.125% senior notes, pursuant to the terms of the original debt agreement. In connection with our annual cash dividend, we paid shareholders $207.6 million in 2007, $160.9 million in 2006, and $123.4 million in 2005. To repurchase shares of our common stock under our share repurchase program, we paid $750.0 million in 2007, $749.9 million in 2006, and $649.6 million in 2005.

Sources of Liquidity

        We utilize cash generated from operations, short-term investments and our main revolving credit facility to cover seasonal fluctuations in cash flows and to support our various growth initiatives.

        We had $2.1 billion in total cash, short-term investments and funds available through credit agreements at February 2, 2008, which consisted of $792.4 million of available credit, $1.25 billion of cash and cash equivalents and $27.0 million of short-term investments. During fiscal 2007, we also issued letters of credit in the ordinary course of business to satisfy certain vendor contracts. At February 2, 2008, we had $71.6 million of open letters of credit, thus

B-7

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations (Continued)


reducing the available credit under our revolving credit facility from $750.0 million to $678.4 million. We finance the majority of our stores and certain equipment with operating leases.

        As of February 2, 2008, the balances available under credit agreements, debt outstanding and principal payments due on our outstanding debt, operating lease obligations and purchase obligations are presented below (amounts in thousands):

 
    
    
   Payments Due By Period
Contractual Obligations(1)
   Available
Credit
   Total
Outstanding
Obligations
   Less
than 1
Year
   1—3 Years
   3—5 Years
   More than
5 Years
Revolving Credit Facility effective through October 2011   $ 678,436   $ —   $ —   $ —   $ —   $ —
Notes due October 2012     —     325,000     —     —     325,000     —
Lines of credit     113,991     —     —     —     —     —
Capital leases and other notes payable     —     31,670     23,806     6,624     860     380
   
 
 
 
 
 
  Total Debt Obligations   $ 792,427   $ 356,670   $ 23,806   $ 6,624   $ 325,860   $ 380
Operating leases   $ —   $ 6,225,299   $ 756,963   $ 1,446,995   $ 1,233,938   $ 2,787,403
Purchase obligations(2)   $ —   $ 702,421   $ 308,512   $ 239,418   $ 96,047   $ 58,444
   
 
 
 
 
 
Total   $ 792,427   $ 7,284,390   $ 1,089,281   $ 1,693,037   $ 1,655,845   $ 2,846,227
   
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
The above table excludes scheduled interest payments on debt obligations since all of our fixed rate debt agreements are hedged with derivative instruments that are intended to convert the fixed rate debt agreements into variable interest rate obligations. Therefore, the amount of future interest payments due on these obligations is not currently determinable (see Notes D and E in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

(2)
Many of our purchase commitments may be canceled by us without advance notice or payment, and we have excluded such commitments, along with intercompany commitments. Contracts that may be terminated by us without cause or penalty, but that require advance notice for termination are valued on the basis of an estimate of what we would owe under the contract upon providing notice of termination.

        On October 13, 2006, we entered into an Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement (the "Credit Agreement") with Bank of America, N.A and other lending institutions. The Credit Agreement amended and restated the Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of December 14, 2004, which provided for a maximum borrowing of $750.0 million and was due to expire in December 2009 (the "Prior Agreement"). The Credit Agreement provides for a maximum borrowing of $750.0 million which, upon approval of the lenders, we may increase to $1.0 billion, and expires on October 13, 2011. Borrowings made pursuant to the Credit Agreement may be syndicated loans, competitive bid loans, or swing line loans, the combined sum of which may not exceed the maximum borrowing amount. Amounts borrowed under the Credit Agreement may be borrowed, repaid and reborrowed from time to time until October 13, 2011.

        Borrowings made pursuant to the Credit Agreement as syndicated loans will bear interest, payable quarterly or, if earlier, at the end of any interest period, at either (a) the base rate, described in the Credit Agreement as the higher of the annual rate of the lead bank's prime rate or the federal funds rate plus 0.50%, or (b) the Eurocurrency rate (a publicly published rate) plus a percentage spread based on our credit rating and fixed charge coverage ratio. Borrowings made as competitive bid loans bear the competitive bid rate as specified in the applicable competitive bid. Swing line loans bear interest that is the lesser of the base rate or the swing line rate as quoted by the administrative agent under the terms of the Credit Agreement. Under the Credit Agreement, we agree to pay a facility fee, payable quarterly, at rates that range from 0.060% to 0.125% depending on our credit rating and fixed charge coverage ratio, and when applicable, a utilization fee. The payments under this Credit Agreement are guaranteed by the same subsidiaries that guarantee our publicly issued notes (see Note L in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

B-8

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations (Continued)

        We expect that our cash generated from operations, together with our current cash, short-term investments and funds available under the Credit Agreement, will be sufficient to fund our planned store openings and other recurring operating cash needs for at least the next twelve months.

Uses of Capital

        As a result of our strong financial position, in addition to investing in our existing business and pursuing strategic acquisitions, we also expect to continue to return capital to our shareholders through our stock repurchase program and an annual cash dividend. Based on our credit metrics and our liquidity position, we may also return capital to our shareholders through our share repurchase program.

        We currently plan to spend approximately $500 million to $550 million on capital expenditures during fiscal 2008 related to new store openings and continued investments in information systems and distribution centers to improve operational efficiencies and customer service. We expect to open approximately 115 new stores in North America, Europe and Asia during fiscal 2008. We may also expend additional funds to purchase lease rights from tenants occupying retail space that is suitable for a Staples store. We estimate that our cash requirements, including pre-opening expenses, net inventory, leasehold improvements and fixtures, will be approximately $1.4 million for each new store.

        While we have primarily grown organically, we may use capital to engage in strategic acquisitions or joint ventures in markets where we currently have a presence and in new geographic markets that could become significant to our business in future years. We do not expect to rely on acquisitions to achieve our targeted growth plans. We consider many types of acquisitions for their strategic and other benefits on a case by case basis, such as our recently announced proposal to acquire all the outstanding shares of Corporate Express NV. However, we have most recently targeted and expect to continue to target acquisitions that are small, aligned with our existing businesses, focused on both strengthening our presence in existing markets and expanding our presence into new geographies that could become long-term meaningful drivers of our business, and financed from our operating cash flows.

        In 2005, we announced a repurchase program under which we were authorized to repurchase up to $1.5 billion of Staples common stock through February 2, 2008. In the second quarter of 2007, we announced that our 2005 repurchase program would be replaced with a new repurchase program under which we may repurchase up to $1.5 billion of Staples common stock. The new repurchase program went into effect during the second quarter of 2007 and has no expiration date. Approximately $1.2 billion of Staples common stock had been repurchased under our 2005 repurchase program when it was terminated and replaced by the 2007 program.

        We paid a cash dividend of $0.29 per share of common stock on April 19, 2007 to shareholders of record on March 30, 2007, resulting in a total dividend payment of $207.6 million. On March 4, 2008, we announced that we would pay a cash dividend of $0.33 per share on April 17, 2008 to shareholders of record on March 28, 2008. While it is our intention to pay annual cash dividends in years following 2008, any decision to pay future cash dividends will be made by our Board of Directors and will depend upon our earnings, financial condition and other factors.

Proposed Acquisition of Corporate Express

        On February 19, 2008, we announced that we had made a proposal to Corporate Express NV, a Dutch office products distributor with operations in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand to acquire all of the outstanding shares of its ordinary stock for cash consideration of 7.25 Euros per ordinary share, representing a total enterprise value of approximately 2.5 billion Euros (approximately $3.7 billion). To finance a portion of this proposed acquisition, we entered into a bridge loan commitment letter with Lehman Brothers on customary terms and conditions. We may only borrow amounts pursuant to this committed financing in connection with the proposed acquisition of Corporate Express. We believe that this committed financing together with our cash and available credit under our revolving credit facility would be sufficient to finance the acquisition. Corporate Express, in a public statement issued the same day, rejected our proposal.

B-9

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations (Continued)

Inflation and Seasonality

        While neither inflation nor deflation has had, nor do we expect them to have, a material impact upon operating results, there can be no assurance that our business will not be affected by inflation or deflation in the future. We believe that our business is somewhat seasonal, with sales and profitability slightly lower during the first half of our fiscal year.


Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risks

        We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates and foreign exchange rates. We have a risk management control process to monitor our interest rate and foreign exchange risks. The risk management process uses analytical techniques, including market value, sensitivity analysis and value at risk estimates.

        As more fully described in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, we use interest rate swap agreements to modify fixed rate obligations to variable rate obligations, thereby adjusting the interest rates to current market rates and ensuring that the debt instruments are always reflected at fair value. While our variable rate debt obligations, approximately $325.0 million at February 2, 2008, expose us to the risk of rising interest rates, management does not believe that the potential exposure is material to our overall financial position or results of operations. Based on February 2, 2008 borrowing levels, a 1.0% increase or decrease in current market interest rates would have the effect of causing a $3.3 million additional pre-tax charge or credit to our statement of operations.

        As more fully described in Note E in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, we are exposed to foreign exchange risks through subsidiaries or investments in Canada, Europe, Asia and South America. We have entered into a currency swap in Canadian dollars in order to hedge a portion of our foreign exchange risk related to our net investment in foreign subsidiaries. Any increase or decrease in the fair value of our currency exchange rate sensitive derivative instruments would be offset by a corresponding decrease or increase in the fair value of the hedged underlying asset.

        We account for our interest rate and currency swap agreements using hedge accounting treatment as the derivatives have been determined to be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value of the hedged items. Under this method of accounting, at February 2, 2008, we have recorded a $9.3 million asset representing gross unrealized gains on one of our derivatives and a $10.1 million liability representing gross unrealized losses on another derivative. During fiscal 2001, we terminated an interest swap agreement resulting in a realized gain of $18.0 million which has been amortized into income through August 2007, the remaining term of the original agreement. We do not enter into derivative agreements for trading purposes.

B-10

     
ITEM 8   APPENDIX C


INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
   Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm   C-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets—February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007
 
C-3

Consolidated Statements of Income—Fiscal years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and January 28, 2006
 
C-4

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity—Fiscal years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and January 28, 2006
 
C-5

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows—Fiscal years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and January 28, 2006
 
C-6

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
C-7 to C-28

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
 
C-29

C-1

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Board of Directors and Shareholders
Staples, Inc.

        We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Staples, Inc. and subsidiaries as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended February 2, 2008. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a)2. These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.

        We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

        In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Staples, Inc. and subsidiaries at February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended February 2, 2008, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.

        As discussed in Note A to the consolidated financial statements, effective February 4, 2007, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes.

        We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Staples, Inc.'s internal control over financial reporting as of February 2, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated March 3, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

    /s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Ernst & Young LLP

Boston, Massachusetts
March 3, 2008

C-2


STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Dollar Amounts in Thousands, Except Share Data)

 
   February 2,
2008
   February 3,
2007
  
ASSETS              
Current assets:              
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 1,245,448   $ 1,017,671  
  Short-term investments     27,016     457,759  
  Receivables, net     822,254     720,797  
  Merchandise inventories, net     2,053,163     1,919,714  
  Deferred income tax asset     173,545     141,108  
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets     233,956     174,314  
   
 
 
    Total current assets     4,555,382     4,431,363  

Property and equipment:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Land and buildings     859,751     791,264  
  Leasehold improvements     1,135,132     996,434  
  Equipment     1,819,381     1,539,617  
  Furniture and fixtures     871,361     757,408  
   
 
 
    Total property and equipment     4,685,625     4,084,723  
  Less accumulated depreciation and amortization     2,524,486     2,110,602  
   
 
 
    Net property and equipment     2,161,139     1,974,121  

Lease acquisition costs, net of accumulated amortization
 
 
31,399
 
 
33,579
 
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization     231,310     232,383  
Goodwill     1,764,928     1,455,113  
Other assets     292,186     270,706  
   
 
 
    Total assets   $ 9,036,344   $ 8,397,265  
   
 
 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current liabilities:              
  Accounts payable   $ 1,560,728   $ 1,486,188  
  Accrued expenses and other current liabilities     1,025,364     1,087,030  
  Debt maturing within one year     23,806     215,165  
   
 
 
    Total current liabilities     2,609,898     2,788,383  

Long-term debt
 
 
342,169
 
 
316,465
 
Other long-term obligations     356,043     261,643  
Minority interest     10,227     9,109  

Stockholders' Equity:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued     —     —  
  Common stock, $.0006 par value, 2,100,000,000 shares authorized; issued 867,366,103 shares at February 2, 2008 and 849,338,568 shares at February 3, 2007     520     510  
  Additional paid-in capital     3,720,319     3,338,412  
  Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments     476,399     189,115  
  Retained earnings     4,793,542     4,005,424  
  Less: treasury stock at cost, 162,728,588 shares at February 2, 2008 and 130,605,591 shares at February 3, 2007     (3,272,773 )   (2,511,796 )
   
 
 
    Total stockholders' equity     5,718,007     5,021,665  
   
 
 
      Total liabilities and stockholders' equity   $ 9,036,344   $ 8,397,265  
   
 
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

C-3


STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Income

(Dollar Amounts in Thousands, Except Share Data)

 
   Fiscal Year Ended
  
 
   February 2,
2008
   February 3,
2007
   January 28,
2006
  
Sales   $ 19,372,682   $ 18,160,789   $ 16,078,852  
Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs     13,822,011     12,966,788     11,496,234  
   
 
 
 
    Gross profit     5,550,671     5,194,001     4,582,618  

Operating and other expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Operating and selling     3,131,774     2,946,249     2,647,567  
  General and administrative     854,984     770,268     687,962  
  Amortization of intangibles     15,664     14,415     13,008  
   
 
 
 
    Total operating expenses     4,002,422     3,730,932     3,348,537  
   
 
 
 
    Operating income     1,548,249     1,463,069     1,234,081  

Other income (expense):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Interest income     46,726     58,839     59,937  
  Interest expense     (38,335 )   (47,810 )   (56,774 )
  Miscellaneous expense     (2,158 )   (2,770 )   (1,945 )
   
 
 
 
    Income before income taxes and minority interest     1,554,482     1,471,328     1,235,299  
Income tax expense     559,614     497,972     450,884  
   
 
 
 
    Income before minority interests     994,868     973,356     784,415  
Minority interest (income) expense     (802 )   (321 )   298  
   
 
 
 
    Net Income   $ 995,670   $ 973,677   $ 784,117  
   
 
 
 

Earnings per common share
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Basic   $ 1.41   $ 1.35   $ 1.07  
   
 
 
 
    Diluted   $ 1.38   $ 1.32   $ 1.04  
   
 
 
 
Dividends declared per common share   $ 0.29   $ 0.22   $ 0.17  
   
 
 
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

C-4


STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity

(Dollar Amounts in Thousands)

For the Fiscal Years Ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and January 28, 2006

 
   Common Stock
   Additional Paid-In Capital
   Cumulative Translation Adjustments
   Retained Earnings
   Treasury Stock
   Comprehensive Income
  
Balances at January 29, 2005   $ 488   $ 2,600,423   $ 114,427   $ 2,531,915   $ (1,072,829 ) $ 698,000  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issuance of common stock for stock options exercised     9     159,727     —     —     —     —  
Tax benefit on exercise of options     —     24,347     —     —     —     —  
Stock-based compensation     —     129,806     —     —     —     —  
Sale of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan     1     23,181     —     —     —     —  
Stock split and cash paid in lieu of fractional shares     —     (921 )   —     —     —        
Net income for the year     —     —     —     784,117     —     784,117  
Common stock dividend     —     —     —     (123,402 )   —        
Foreign currency translation adjustments     —     —     (15,837 )   —     —     (15,837 )
Changes in the fair value of derivatives (net of taxes of $8,332)     —     —     (11,505 )   —     —     (11,505 )
Purchase of treasury shares     —     —     —     —     (663,145 )   —  
Other     —     799     —     —     —     —  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balances at January 28, 2006   $ 498   $ 2,937,362   $ 87,085   $ 3,192,630   $ (1,735,974 ) $ 756,775  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issuance of common stock for stock options exercised     11     166,752     —     —     —     —  
Tax benefit on exercise of options     —     36,069     —     —     —     —  
Stock-based compensation     —     168,736     —     —     —     —  
Sale of common stock under                                   —  
  Employee Stock Purchase Plan and International Savings Plan     1     28,499     —     —     —     —  
Net income for the year     —     —     —     973,677     —     973,677  
Common stock dividend     —     —     —     (160,883 )   —     —  
Foreign currency translation adjustments     —     —     96,404     —     —     96,404  
Changes in the fair value of derivatives (net of taxes of $4,073)     —     —     5,626     —     —     5,626  
Purchase of treasury shares     —     —     —     —     (775,822 )   —  
Other     —     994     —     —     —     —  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balances at February 3, 2007   $ 510   $ 3,338,412   $ 189,115   $ 4,005,424   $ (2,511,796 ) $ 1,075,707  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Issuance of common stock for stock options exercised     9     148,742     —     —     —     —  
Tax benefit on exercise of options     —     29,553     —     —     —     —  
Stock-based compensation     —     173,343     —     —     —     —  
Sale of common stock under                                   —  
  Employee Stock Purchase Plan and International Savings Plan     1     31,699     —     —     —     —  
Net income for the year     —     —     —     995,670     —     995,670  
Common stock dividend     —     —     —     (207,552 )   —     —  
Foreign currency translation adjustments     —     —     262,639     —     —     262,639  
Changes in the fair value of derivatives (net of taxes of $17,847)     —     —     24,645     —     —     24,645  
Purchase of treasury shares     —     —     —     —     (760,977 )   —  
Other     —     (1,430 )   —     —     —     —  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balances at February 2, 2008   $ 520   $ 3,720,319   $ 476,399   $ 4,793,542   $ (3,272,773 ) $ 1,282,954  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

C-5


STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Dollar Amounts in Thousands)

 
   Fiscal Year Ended
  
 
   February 2, 2008
   February 3, 2007
   January 28, 2006
  
Operating activities:                    
  Net income   $ 995,670   $ 973,677   $ 784,117  
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:                    
    Depreciation and amortization     388,895     339,299     303,900  
    Stock-based compensation     173,343     168,736     129,806  
    Deferred income tax benefit     (8,788 )   (65,401 )   (96,189 )
    Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation arrangements     (18,557 )   (36,069 )   (36,748 )
    Other     4,831     (365 )   (6,513 )
    Change in assets and liabilities, net of companies acquired:                    
      Increase in receivables     (64,293 )   (128,010 )   (80,166 )
      Increase in merchandise inventories     (30,175 )   (191,957 )   (97,538 )
      Increase in prepaid expenses and other assets     (89,558 )   (44,298 )   (15,646 )
      Increase in accounts payable     295     34,379     187,402  
      (Decrease) increase in accrued expenses and other current liabilities     (90,054 )   79,187     105,274  
      Increase in other long-term obligations     99,407     21,823     20,922  
   
 
 
 
  Net cash provided by operating activities     1,361,016     1,151,001     1,198,621  

Investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Acquisition of property and equipment     (470,377 )   (528,475 )   (456,103 )
  Acquisition of businesses and investments in joint ventures, net of cash acquired     (178,077 )   (31,750 )   (57,196 )
  Proceeds from the sale of short-term investments     4,579,460     8,358,384     8,097,199  
  Purchase of short-term investments     (4,148,716 )   (8,223,063 )   (8,218,049 )
   
 
 
 
  Net cash used in investing activities     (217,710 )   (424,904 )   (634,149 )

Financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Proceeds from the exercise of stock options and the sale of stock under employee stock purchase plans     178,504     195,263     181,997  
  Proceeds from borrowings     11,796     13,988     535  
  Payments on borrowings     (206,515 )   (5,191 )   (16,735 )
  Cash dividends paid     (207,552 )   (160,883 )   (123,402 )
  Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation arrangements     18,557     36,069     36,748  
  Purchase of treasury stock, net     (760,977 )   (775,822 )   (663,145 )
   
 
 
 
  Net cash used in financing activities     (966,187 )   (696,576 )   (584,002 )
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
 
50,658
 
 
10,328
 
 
42
 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 
 
227,777
 
 
39,849
 
 
(19,488
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period     1,017,671     977,822     997,310  
   
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period   $ 1,245,448   $ 1,017,671   $ 977,822  
   
 
 
 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

C-6


STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements

NOTE A Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

        Nature of Operations:    Staples, Inc. and subsidiaries ("Staples" or the "Company") pioneered the office products superstore concept and Staples is a leading office products company. Staples operates three business segments: North American Retail, North American Delivery and International Operations. The Company's North American Retail segment consists of the U.S. and Canadian business units that operate office products stores. The North American Delivery segment consists of the U.S. and Canadian business units that sell and deliver office products and services directly to customers, and includes Staples Business Delivery, Quill and Contract. The International Operations segment consists of operating units that operate office products stores and that sell and deliver office products and services directly to customers in 20 countries in Europe, Asia and South America.

        Basis of Presentation:    The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Staples, Inc. and its wholly and majority owned subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation. All share and per share amounts reflect, or have been restated to reflect, the three-for-two common stock split that was effected in the form of a common stock dividend distributed on April 15, 2005.

        Fiscal Year:    Staples' fiscal year is the 52 or 53 weeks ending on the Saturday closest to January 31. Fiscal year 2007 consisted of the 52 weeks ended February 2, 2008, fiscal year 2006 consisted of the 53 weeks ended February 3, 2007 and fiscal year 2005 consisted of the 52 weeks ended January 28, 2006.

        Use of Estimates:    The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management of Staples to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

        Cash Equivalents:    Staples considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

        Short-term Investments:    Short-term investments, which primarily consist of market auction rate preferred stock and debt securities and treasury securities, are classified as "available for sale" under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities." Accordingly, the short-term investments are reported at fair value, with any related unrealized gains and losses included as a separate component of stockholders' equity, net of applicable taxes. Realized gains and losses and interest and dividends are included in interest income or interest expense, as appropriate. Given the highly liquid nature of these investments, there were no significant realized or unrealized gains or losses during fiscal year 2007, 2006 or 2005. At February 2, 2008, the available for sale investments consisted of $27.0 million of treasury securities, with contractual maturities ranging from February 2008 through September 2008.

        Receivables:    Receivables include trade receivables financed under regular commercial credit terms and other non-trade receivables. Gross trade receivables were $642.2 million at February 2, 2008 and $511.1 million at February 3, 2007. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade receivables are limited due to Staples' large number of customers and their dispersion across many industries and geographic regions.

        An allowance for doubtful accounts has been recorded to reduce trade receivables to an amount expected to be collectible from customers based on specific evidence as well as historical trends. The allowance recorded at February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007 was $22.5 million and $18.8 million, respectively.

        Other non-trade receivables were $202.5 million at February 2, 2008 and $228.5 million at February 3, 2007 and consisted primarily of amounts due from vendors under various incentive and promotional programs.

        Merchandise Inventories:    Merchandise inventories are valued at the lower of weighted-average cost or market value.

        Private Label Credit Card:    Staples offers a private label credit card which is managed by a financial services company. Under the terms of the agreement, Staples is obligated to pay fees which approximate the financial institution's cost of processing and collecting the receivables, which are non-recourse to Staples.

C-7

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE A Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        Property and Equipment:    Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Expenditures for normal maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. Depreciation and amortization, which includes the amortization of assets recorded under capital lease obligations, are provided using the straight-line method over the following useful lives: 40 years for buildings; 3-10 years for furniture and fixtures; and 3-10 years for equipment, which includes computer equipment and software with estimated useful lives of 3-5 years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the terms of the underlying leases or the estimated economic lives of the improvements.

        Lease Acquisition Costs:    Lease acquisition costs are recorded at cost and amortized using the straight-line method over the respective lease terms, including option renewal periods if renewal of the lease is probable, which range from 5 to 40 years. Accumulated amortization at February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007 totaled $68.4 million and $64.4 million, respectively.

        Goodwill and Intangible Assets:    SFAS No. 142, "Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" requires that goodwill and intangible assets that have indefinite lives not be amortized but, instead, tested at least annually for impairment. Management uses a discounted cash flow analysis, which requires that certain assumptions and estimates be made regarding industry economic factors and future profitability of acquired businesses to assess the need for an impairment charge. If actual results are not consistent with management's assumptions and judgments, the Company could be exposed to a material impairment charge. The Company has elected the fourth quarter to complete its annual goodwill impairment test. In addition, annual impairment tests for indefinite lived intangible assets are also performed in the fourth quarter. As a result of the fourth quarter impairment analyses, management has determined that no impairment charges are required.

        The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the year ended February 2, 2008 are as follows (in thousands):

 
   Goodwill
At February 3, 2007
   2007 Net
Additions
   2007 Foreign
Exchange
Fluctuations
   Goodwill
At February 2, 2008
North American Retail   $ 36,306   $ —   $ 6,542   $ 42,848
North American Delivery     444,775     60,915     —     505,690
International Operations     974,032     120,174     122,184     1,216,390
   
 
 
 
Consolidated   $ 1,455,113   $ 181,089   $ 128,726   $ 1,764,928
   
 
 
 

        Intangible assets not subject to amortization, which include registered trademarks and trade names, were $153.0 million at February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007. Intangible assets subject to amortization, which include certain trademarks and trade names, customer related intangible assets and non-competition agreements, were $140.7 million, with accumulated amortization of $62.4 million at February 2, 2008, and $126.5 million with accumulated amortization of $47.1 million at February 3, 2007, respectively. At February 2, 2008, intangible assets subject to amortization had a weighted average life of 10.6 years.

        Impairment of Long-Lived Assets:    SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets" ("SFAS No. 144") requires impairment losses to be recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the assets' carrying amount. Staples' policy is to evaluate long-lived assets for impairment at a store level for retail operations and an operating unit level for Staples' other operations.

        Fair Value of Financial Instruments:    Pursuant to SFAS No. 107, "Disclosure About Fair Value of Financial Instruments" ("SFAS No. 107"), Staples has estimated the fair value of its financial instruments using the following methods and assumptions: the carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, receivables and accounts payable approximate fair value because of their short-term nature, and the carrying amounts of Staples' debt approximates fair value because of the Company's use of derivative instruments that qualify for hedge accounting.

C-8

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE A Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        Revenue Recognition:    Revenue is recognized at the point of sale for the Company's retail operations and at the time of shipment for its delivery sales. The Company offers its customers various coupons, discounts and rebates, which are treated as a reduction of revenue.

        Sales of extended service plans are either administered by an unrelated third party or by the Company. The unrelated third party is the legal obligor in most of the areas they administer and accordingly bears all performance obligations and risk of loss related to the service plans sold in such areas. In these areas, Staples recognizes a net commission revenue at the time of sale for the service plans. In certain areas where Staples is the legal obligor, the revenues associated with the sale are deferred and recognized over the life of the service contract, which is typically one to five years.

        Cost of Goods Sold and Occupancy Costs:    Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs includes the costs of: merchandise sold, inbound and outbound freight, receiving and distribution, and store and distribution center occupancy (including real estate taxes and common area maintenance).

        Shipping and Handling Costs:    All shipping and handling costs are included as a component of cost of goods sold and occupancy costs.

        Operating and Selling Expenses:    Operating and selling expenses include payroll, advertising and other operating expenses for the Company's stores and delivery operations not included in cost of goods sold and occupancy costs.

        Advertising:    Staples expenses the production costs of advertising the first time the advertising takes place, except for the cost of direct-response advertising, primarily catalog production costs, which are capitalized and amortized over their expected period of future benefits (i.e., the life of the catalog). Direct catalog production costs included in prepaid and other assets totaled $35.9 million at February 2, 2008 and $31.2 million at February 3, 2007. Total advertising and marketing expense was $710.0 million, $660.3 million and $588.2 million for fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

        Pre-opening Costs:    Pre-opening costs, which consist primarily of salaries, supplies, marketing and distribution costs, are expensed as incurred.

        Stock-Based Compensation:    The Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (revised 2004), "Share Based Payment" ("SFAS No. 123R") as of January 29, 2006, using the modified retrospective method. As a result, the consolidated financial statements for fiscal year 2005 have been restated to reflect the adoption of this standard.

        Foreign Currency Translation:    The assets and liabilities of Staples' foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at current exchange rates as of the balance sheet date, and revenues and expenses are translated at average monthly exchange rates. The resulting translation adjustments, and the net exchange gains and losses resulting from the translation of investments in Staples' foreign subsidiaries are recorded as a separate component of stockholders' equity.

        Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities:    The Company recognizes all derivative financial instruments in the consolidated financial statements at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that qualify for hedge accounting are recorded in stockholders' equity as a component of comprehensive income or as an adjustment to the carrying value of the hedged item. Changes in fair values of derivatives not qualifying for hedge accounting are reported in earnings. As of February 2, 2008, Staples has no derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting.

        Accounting for Income Taxes:    In July 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes" ("FIN 48"). FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertain income tax positions that are recognized in a company's financial statements in accordance with the provisions of FASB Statement No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes". FIN 48 also provides guidance on the derecognition of uncertain positions, financial statement classification, accounting for interest and penalties, accounting for interim periods, and new disclosure requirements.

C-9

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE A Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        The Company adopted FIN 48 as of February 4, 2007, the first day of the 2007 fiscal year. The adoption of FIN 48 did not result in any material adjustments to the Company's reserves for uncertain tax positions. At the beginning of fiscal 2007, the Company had $81.8 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits, $65.9 million of which, if recognized, would affect the Company's tax rate. At February 2, 2008, the Company had $87.7 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits, $66.1 million of which, if recognized, would affect the Company's tax rate. The Company does not reasonably expect any material changes to the estimated amount of liability associated with its uncertain tax positions through fiscal 2008. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):

 
    
  
Balance as of February 4, 2007   $ 81,848  
Additions for tax positions related to fiscal year 2007     22,460  
Additions for tax positions of prior years     8,932  
Reductions for tax positions of prior years     (18,430 )
Settlements     (7,122 )
   
 
Balance as of February 2, 2008   $ 87,688  
   
 

        Staples is subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state and foreign jurisdictions. The Company has substantially concluded all U.S. federal income tax matters for years through 2005 and all material state, local and foreign income tax matters for years through 2000.

        Staples' continuing practice is to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. The Company had $11.1 million accrued for interest and penalties as of February 2, 2008.

        New Accounting Pronouncements:    In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements" ("SFAS No. 157"). SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of SFAS No. 157 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159, "The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities" ("SFAS No. 159"). SFAS No. 159 allows companies to measure many financial assets and liabilities at fair value. It also establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to facilitate comparisons between companies that choose different measurement attributes for similar types of assets and liabilities. SFAS No. 159 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of SFAS No. 159 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141(R), "Business Combinations" ("SFAS No. 141(R)"). SFAS No. 141(R) replaces SFAS No. 141, "Business Combinations", but retains the requirement that the purchase method of accounting for acquisitions be used for all business combinations. SFAS No. 141(R) expands on the disclosures previously required by SFAS No. 141, better defines the acquirer and the acquisition date in a business combination, and establishes principles for recognizing and measuring the assets acquired (including goodwill), the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interests in the acquired business. SFAS No. 141(R) also requires an acquirer to record an adjustment to income tax expense for changes in valuation allowances or uncertain tax positions related to acquired businesses. SFAS No. 141(R) is effective for all business combinations with an acquisition date in the first annual period following December 15, 2008; early adoption is not permitted. The Company will adopt this statement as of February 1, 2009. Management is currently evaluating the impact SFAS No. 141(R) will have on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

        In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 160, "Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of ARB No. 51" ("SFAS No. 160"). SFAS No. 160 requires that noncontrolling (or minority) interests in subsidiaries be reported in the equity section of the company's balance sheet, rather than in a mezzanine section of the balance sheet between liabilities and

C-10

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE A Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)


equity. SFAS No. 160 also changes the manner in which the net income of the subsidiary is reported and disclosed in the controlling company's income statement. SFAS No. 160 also establishes guidelines for accounting for changes in ownership percentages and for deconsolidation. SFAS No. 160 is effective for financial statements for fiscal years beginning on or after December 1, 2008 and interim periods within those years. The adoption of SFAS No. 160 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        Reclassifications:    Certain previously reported amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current period presentation.

NOTE B Business Acquisitions and Equity Method Investments

        In accordance with SFAS No. 141 "Business Combinations", Staples records acquisitions under the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the purchase price is allocated to the tangible assets and liabilities and intangible assets acquired, based on their estimated fair values. The excess purchase price over the fair value is recorded as goodwill. Under SFAS No. 142, goodwill and purchased intangibles with indefinite lives are not amortized but are reviewed for impairment annually, or more frequently, if impairment indicators arise. Purchased intangibles with definite lives are amortized over their respective useful lives.

        During 2007, the Company paid an aggregate of $188.3 million to acquire all or a majority interest in certain delivery businesses headquartered in the United States and China. Additionally, in 2007 the Company made an investment in a joint venture in India.

        During 2007, the Company recorded $181.1 million of goodwill and $20.7 million of intangible assets for all acquisitions and investments completed in 2007, of which $38.0 million of goodwill is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The $20.7 million recorded for intangible assets was assigned to trade names and customer related intangible assets that will be amortized over a weighted average life of 8.1 years.

NOTE C Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities

        The major components of accrued liabilities are as follows (in thousands):

 
   February 2,
2008
   February 3, 2007
Taxes   $ 233,542   $ 284,094
Employee related     247,374     268,046
Acquisition and store closure reserves     41,130     48,798
Advertising and marketing     79,977     82,985
Other     423,341     403,107
   
 
  Total   $ 1,025,364   $ 1,087,030
   
 

C-11

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE D Debt and Credit Agreements

        The major components of debt outstanding are as follows (in thousands):

 
   February 2,
2008
   February 3,
2007
  
Notes due October 2012 (see below)   $ 325,000   $ 325,000  
Senior Notes due August 2007 (see below)     —     200,000  
Lines of credit (see "Credit Agreements" below)     —     229  
Capital lease obligations and other notes payable in monthly installments with effective interest rates from 2% to 5%; collateralized by the related equipment     31,670     22,461  
   
 
 
      356,670     547,690  
Deferred gain (loss) on settlement of interest rate swap and fair value adjustments on hedged debt     9,305     (16,060 )
Less current portion     (23,806 )   (215,165 )
   
 
 
Net long-term debt   $ 342,169   $ 316,465  
   
 
 
Debt maturing within one year consists of the following (in thousands):              
Current portion of long-term debt   $ 23,806   $ 215,874  
Fair value adjustments on hedged debt     —     (709 )
   
 
 
Total debt maturing within one year   $ 23,806   $ 215,165  
   
 
 

        Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt and capital lease obligations are as follows (in thousands):

Fiscal Year:
   Total
2008   $ 23,806
2009     4,023
2010     2,601
2011     430
2012     325,430
Thereafter     380
   
    $ 356,670
   

        Future minimum lease payments under capital leases of $8.8 million, excluding $0.5 million of interest, are included in aggregate annual maturities shown above. Staples entered into new capital lease agreements totaling $3.9 million during fiscal year 2007 and $3.1 million during fiscal year 2005. Staples entered into no new capital lease agreements during fiscal year 2006.

        Interest paid by Staples totaled $42.0 million, $45.9 million and $41.2 million for fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. There was no interest capitalized in fiscal 2007 or 2005. There was $0.2 million of capitalized interest in fiscal 2006.

        Notes:    On September 30, 2002, Staples issued $325.0 million principal amount of senior notes due October 1, 2012 (the "Notes"), with a fixed interest rate of 7.375% payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year commencing on April 1, 2003. Staples has entered into an interest rate swap agreement to turn the Notes into variable rate obligations (see Note E).

        Senior Notes:    On August 12, 1997, Staples issued $200.0 million principal amount of senior notes (the "Senior Notes"), with a fixed interest rate of 7.125% payable semi-annually on February 15 and August 15 of each year. Staples entered into interest rate swap agreements to turn the Senior Notes into variable rate obligations (see Note E). The Senior Notes were due in August 2007. On August 15, 2007, the Company repaid the $200.0 million Senior Notes and paid $83.3 million to settle foreign currency swaps that matured on that date. The swaps that matured on August 15, 2007 were designated as a foreign currency hedge on Staples net investment in Canadian dollar denominated subsidiaries.

C-12

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE D Debt and Credit Agreements (Continued)

        Credit Agreements:    On October 13, 2006, Staples entered into an Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement (the "Credit Agreement") with Bank of America, N.A and other lending institutions. The Credit Agreement amended and restated the Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of December 14, 2004, which provided for a maximum borrowing of $750.0 million and was due to expire in December 2009 (the "Prior Agreement").

        The Credit Agreement provides for a maximum borrowing of $750.0 million which, upon approval of the lenders, Staples may increase to $1.0 billion, and expires on October 13, 2011. Borrowings made pursuant to the Credit Agreement may be syndicated loans, competitive bid loans, or swing line loans, the combined sum of which may not exceed the maximum borrowing amount. Amounts borrowed under the Credit Agreement may be borrowed, repaid and reborrowed from time to time until October 13, 2011. The borrowings under this Credit Agreement are guaranteed by the same subsidiaries that guarantee the Company's publicly issued notes (See Note L). At February 2, 2008, no borrowings were outstanding under this Credit Agreement; however, $71.6 million of open letters of credit were outstanding, reducing the available credit under the Credit Agreement from $750.0 million to $678.4 million.

        Borrowings made pursuant to the Credit Agreement as syndicated loans will bear interest, payable quarterly or, if earlier, at the end of any interest period, at either (a) the base rate, described in the Credit Agreement as the higher of the annual rate of the lead bank's prime rate or the federal funds rate plus 0.50%, or (b) the Eurocurrency rate (a publicly published rate) plus a percentage spread based on Staples' credit rating and fixed charge coverage ratio. Borrowings made as competitive bid loans bear the competitive bid rate as specified in the applicable competitive bid. Swing line loans bear interest that is the lesser of the base rate or the swing line rate as quoted by the administrative agent under the terms of the Credit Agreement. Under the Credit Agreement, Staples agrees to pay a facility fee, payable quarterly, at rates that range from 0.060% to 0.125% depending on the Company's credit rating and fixed charge coverage ratio, and when applicable, a utilization fee.

        Staples had $114.9 million available under various lines of credit, which had no outstanding balance at February 2, 2008, with $0.9 million of letters of credit issued under the facilities.

NOTE E Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

        Staples uses interest rate swaps to turn fixed rate debt into variable rate debt and currency swaps to hedge a portion of the value of Staples' net investment in Canadian dollar denominated subsidiaries. These derivatives qualify for hedge accounting treatment as the derivatives have been highly effective in offsetting changes in fair value of the hedged items.

        Interest Rate Swaps:    During fiscal year 1999, Staples entered into interest rate swaps, for an aggregate notional amount of $200.0 million, to turn Staples' fixed rate Senior Notes into a variable rate obligation. On October 23, 2001, Staples terminated these interest rate swaps which were originally scheduled to terminate on August 15, 2007. Upon termination of the swaps, Staples realized a gain of $18.0 million, which was amortized over the remaining term of the underlying hedged debt instrument, as an adjustment to interest expense. Simultaneous with the termination of these interest rate swaps, Staples entered into another $200.0 million of interest rate swaps whereby Staples was entitled to receive semi-annual interest payments at a fixed rate of 7.125% and was obligated to make semi-annual interest payments at a floating rate based on the LIBOR. These swap agreements were designated as fair value hedges of the Senior Notes and terminated on August 15, 2007. Upon the termination of these swap agreements, Staples settled accrued interest in the amount of $0.1 million, which was included in interest expense.

        On January 8, 2003, Staples entered into an interest rate swap, for an aggregate notional amount of $325.0 million, designed to convert Staples' Notes into a variable rate obligation. The swap agreement, scheduled to terminate on October 1, 2012, is designated as a fair value hedge of the Notes. Under the interest rate swap agreement, Staples is entitled to receive semi-annual interest payments at a fixed rate of 7.375% and is required to make semi-annual interest payments at a floating rate equal to the 6 month LIBOR plus 3.088%. The interest rate swap agreement is being accounted for as a fair value hedge and the differential to be paid or received on the interest rate swap agreement is accrued and recognized as an adjustment to interest expense over the life of the agreements. At February 2, 2008, the interest rate swap agreement had a fair value gain of $9.3 million, which was included in other assets.

        Foreign Currency Swaps:    During fiscal year 2000, Staples entered into a currency swap, for an aggregate notional amount of $200.0 million. Staples, upon maturity of the agreement, was entitled to receive $200.0 million and was

C-13

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE E Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Continued)


obligated to pay 298 million in Canadian dollars. On November 16, 2006, Staples entered into a currency swap, for an aggregate notional amount of $7.5 million. Staples, upon maturity of the agreement, was entitled to receive $7.5 million and was obligated to pay 8.6 million in Canadian dollars. Staples was also entitled to receive quarterly interest payments on $7.5 million at a fixed rate of 5.3725% and was obligated to make quarterly interest payments on 8.6 million Canadian dollars at a fixed rate of 4.315%. During 2007, Staples entered into currency swaps, for an aggregate notional amount of $17.5 million. Staples, upon maturity of the agreements, was entitled to receive $17.5 million and was obligated to pay 20.1 million in Canadian dollars. Staples was also entitled to receive quarterly interest payments on $17.5 million and was obligated to make quarterly interest payments on 20.1 million Canadian dollars. On August 15, 2007, the Company paid $83.3 million to settle all of these foreign currency swaps. These swaps were designated as a foreign currency hedge on Staples' net investment in Canadian dollar denominated subsidiaries and the loss was recorded as a cumulative translation adjustment in stockholders' equity.

        On August 15, 2007, the Company entered into a $300.0 million foreign currency swap that has been designated as a foreign currency hedge on Staples' net investment in Canadian dollar denominated subsidiaries. Staples, upon maturity of the agreement, will be entitled to receive $300.0 million and will be obligated to pay 318.6 million in Canadian dollars. Staples will also be entitled to receive quarterly interest payments on $300.0 million at a fixed rate of 5.28% and will be obligated to make quarterly interest payments on 318.6 million Canadian dollars at a fixed rate of 5.079%. At February 2, 2008, the currency swap had an aggregate fair value loss of $10.1 million, which was included in other long-term obligations.

        During fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, foreign currency gains (losses), net of taxes of $24.6 million, $5.6 million and $(11.5) million, respectively, were recorded in the cumulative translation adjustment line.

NOTE F Commitments and Contingencies

        Staples leases certain retail and support facilities under long-term non-cancelable lease agreements. Most lease agreements contain renewal options and rent escalation clauses and, in some cases, allow termination within a certain number of years with notice and a fixed payment. Certain agreements provide for contingent rental payments based on sales.

        Other long-term obligations at February 2, 2008 include $127.0 million relating to future rent escalation clauses and lease incentives under certain existing store operating lease arrangements. These rent expenses are recognized on a straight-line basis over the respective terms of the leases. Future minimum lease commitments due for retail and support facilities (including lease commitments for 127 retail stores not yet opened at February 2, 2008) and equipment leases under non-cancelable operating leases are as follows (in thousands):

Fiscal Year:
   Total
2008   $ 756,963
2009     746,244
2010     700,751
2011     647,771
2012     586,167
Thereafter     2,787,403
   
    $ 6,225,299
   

        Future minimum lease commitments do not include $81.6 million of minimum rentals due under non-cancelable subleases.

        Rent expense was approximately $646.2 million, $612.8 million and $566.1 million for fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

        As of February 2, 2008, Staples had purchase obligations of $702.4 million. Many of the Company's purchase commitments may be canceled by the Company without advance notice or payment, and the Company has excluded such commitments, along with intercompany commitments from the following schedule. Contracts that may be terminated by the Company without cause or penalty, but that require advance notice for termination are valued on the basis of an

C-14

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE F Commitments and Contingencies (Continued)


estimate of what the Company would owe under the contract upon providing notice of termination. Such purchase obligations will arise as follows (in thousands):

Fiscal Year:
   Total
2008   $ 308,512
2009 through 2010     239,418
2011 through 2012     96,047
Thereafter     58,444
   
    $ 702,421
   

        Import letters of credit are issued by Staples during the ordinary course of business through major financial institutions as required by certain vendor contracts. As of February 2, 2008, Staples had open letters of credit totaling $46.8 million.

        Various class action lawsuits have been brought against the Company for alleged violations of what is known as California's "wage and hour" law. The plaintiffs have alleged that the Company improperly classified store managers as exempt under the California wage and hour law, making such managers ineligible for overtime wages. In December 2006, the Company settled one class action lawsuit relating to the misclassification of store general managers for $3.9 million. In November 2007, the Company settled the remaining class action lawsuit relating to the misclassification of assistant store managers, recording a charge of $38.0 million, including interest and class counsel's attorney's fees. These charges are included in general and administrative expenses.

        In addition, the Company is involved from time to time in litigation arising from the operation of its business that is considered routine and incidental to its business; however, the Company does not expect the results of any of these actions to have a material adverse effect on its business, results of operations, or financial condition.

NOTE G Income Taxes

        Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The approximate tax effect of the significant components of Staples' deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows (in thousands):

 
   February 2,
2008
   February 3,
2007
  
Deferred tax assets:              
  Deferred rent   $ 45,790   $ 42,336  
  Foreign tax credit carryforwards     71,016     62,473  
  Net operating loss carryforwards     88,091     88,497  
  Insurance     8,284     12,362  
  Employee benefits     106,030     87,844  
  Merger related and store closure charges     14,643     17,249  
  Inventory     38,220     32,289  
  Unrealized loss on hedge instruments     4,237     22,083  
  Deferred revenue     25,332     22,724  
  Depreciation     42,067     53,273  
  Other—net     57,529     45,780  
   
 
 
  Total deferred tax assets     501,239     486,910  
Total valuation allowance     (97,290 )   (77,821 )
   
 
 
Net deferred tax assets   $ 403,949   $ 409,089  
   
 
 
Deferred tax liabilities:              
  Intangibles   $ (90,071 ) $ (90,455 )
  Other—net     (807 )   (2,661 )
   
 
 
  Total deferred tax liabilities     (90,878 )   (93,116 )
   
 
 
Net deferred tax assets   $ 313,071   $ 315,973  
   
 
 

C-15

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE G Income Taxes (Continued)

        The gross deferred tax asset from tax loss carryforwards of $88.1 million represents approximately $301.0 million of net operating loss carryforwards, which have an indefinite carryforward period. The valuation allowance increased by $19.5 million during the year, due primarily to the uncertainty of benefiting deferred tax assets associated with net operating losses and capital allowances.

        For financial reporting purposes, income before income taxes includes the following components (in thousands):

 
   Fiscal Year Ended
 
   February 2,
2008
   February 3,
2007
   January 28,
2006
Pretax income:                  
  United States   $ 1,100,064   $ 1,173,804   $ 1,058,299
  Foreign     454,418     297,524     177,000
   
 
 
    $ 1,554,482   $ 1,471,328   $ 1,235,299
   
 
 

        The provision for income taxes consists of the following (in thousands):

 
   Fiscal Year Ended
  
 
   February 2,
2008
   February 3,
2007
   January 28,
2006
  
Current tax expense:                    
  Federal   $ 431,006   $ 516,520   $ 484,326  
  State     44,567     22,638     19,027  
  Foreign     100,635     86,870     75,990  
Deferred tax (benefit) expense:                    
  Federal     (31,504 )   (101,984 )   (85,897 )
  State     (1,178 )   (11,996 )   (8,501 )
  Foreign     16,088     (14,076 )   (34,061 )
   
 
 
 
Total income tax expense   $ 559,614   $ 497,972   $ 450,884  
   
 
 
 

        A reconciliation of the federal statutory tax rate to Staples' effective tax rate on historical net income is as follows:

 
   Fiscal Year Ended
  
 
   February 2, 2008
   February 3, 2007
   January 28, 2006
  
Federal statutory rate   35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %
State effective rate, net of federal benefit   2.9   1.9   1.7  
Effect of foreign taxes   (2.7 ) (1.2 ) (0.6 )
Tax credits   (0.2 ) (0.6 ) (0.5 )
Resolution of tax matters   0.0   (2.2 ) 0.0  
Other   1.0   0.9   0.9  
   
 
 
 
Effective tax rate   36.0 % 33.8 % 36.5 %
   
 
 
 

        The effective tax rate in any year is impacted by the geographic mix of earnings.

        The tax impact of the unrealized gain or loss on instruments designated as hedges of net investments in foreign subsidiaries is reported in the cumulative translation adjustment line in stockholders' equity.

        The Company operates in multiple jurisdictions and could be subject to audit in these jurisdictions. These audits can involve complex issues that may require an extended period of time to resolve and may cover multiple years. In the Company's opinion, an adequate provision for income taxes has been made for all years subject to audit.

        Income tax payments were $479.5 million, $595.7 million and $472.0 million during fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

C-16

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE G Income Taxes (Continued)

        Undistributed earnings of the Company's foreign subsidiaries amounted to approximately $972.6 million as of February 2, 2008. The Company has not provided any additional federal or state income taxes or foreign withholding taxes on the undistributed earnings as such earnings have been indefinitely reinvested in the business. The determination of the amount of the unrecognized deferred tax liability related to the undistributed earnings is not practicable because of the complexities associated with its hypothetical calculation.

NOTE H Employee Benefit Plans

        In connection with certain employee benefit plans, Staples included approximately $173.3 million, $168.7 million and $129.8 million in compensation expense for fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. As of February 2, 2008, Staples had $250.2 million of stock options and restricted stock and restricted stock units to be expensed over the period through January 2012.

        During the third quarter of 2006, the Company and its Audit Committee, assisted by outside counsel, conducted a review of its historical stock option granting practices during the period from 1997 to 2006. Based on the results of the review, the Company recorded a $10.8 million expense ($8.6 million net of taxes) during the third quarter of 2006 to reflect the cumulative impact of accounting errors due to the use of incorrect measurement dates, without restating any historical financial statements. The amount of this correction in any single year would have been no more than 0.6% of operating income for that year. This charge increased cost of goods sold and occupancy costs by $0.3 million, operating and selling expenses by $3.9 million, general and administrative expenses by $6.6 million, and reduced income tax expense by $2.2 million, resulting in an $8.6 million reduction in net income for 2006. The Company has concluded that the use of incorrect measurement dates was not the result of intentional wrongdoing and has taken steps to improve the controls over its option granting processes.

Employee Stock Purchase Plans

        The Amended and Restated 1998 Employee Stock Purchase Plan authorizes a total of up to 15.8 million shares of common stock to be sold to participating employees and the Amended and Restated International Employee Stock Purchase Plan authorizes a total of up to 1.3 million shares of common stock to be sold to participating employees of non-U.S. subsidiaries of the Company. Under both plans, participating employees may purchase shares of common stock at 85% of its fair market value at the beginning or end of an offering period, whichever is lower, through payroll deductions in an amount not to exceed 10% of an employee's annual base compensation.

Stock Award Plans

        The Amended and Restated 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2004 Plan") was implemented in July 2004 and replaced the amended and restated 1992 Equity Incentive Plan (the "1992 Plan") and the amended and restated 1990 Director Stock Option Plan (the "1990 Plan"). Unexercised options under both the 1992 Plan and the 1990 Plan remain outstanding. Under the 2004 Plan, Staples may issue up to 62.3 million shares of common stock to management and employees using various forms of awards, including nonqualified options and restricted stock, subject to certain restrictions. Except as disclosed above, options outstanding under these plans have an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant. Options outstanding are exercisable at various percentages of the total shares subject to the option starting one year after the grant. All options expire ten years after the grant date, subject to earlier termination in the event of employment termination.

C-17

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE H Employee Benefit Plans (Continued)

        Information with respect to stock options granted under the above plans is as follows:

 
   Number of Shares
   Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share
   Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)
Outstanding at February 3, 2007   57,655,917   $ 16.75      
  Granted   5,495,567     24.36      
  Exercised   (10,126,740 )   14.40      
  Canceled   (1,649,818 )   20.64      
   
 
     

Outstanding at February 2, 2008
 
51,374,926
 
$
17.90
 
$
309,541
   
 
 

Exercisable at February 2, 2008
 
34,039,155
 
$
15.63
 
$
282,473
   
 
 

        The weighted-average fair values of options granted during fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005 were $6.92, $7.12 and $6.32, respectively.

        The following table summarizes information concerning currently outstanding and exercisable options for common stock:

 
    
   Options Outstanding
   Options Exercisable
Range of
Exercise
Prices
   Number
Outstanding
   Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
   Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
   Number
Exercisable
   Weighted Average
Exercise Price
$     0.00 - $  9.00   477,133   2.47   $ 7.09   477,133   $ 7.09
$   9.001 - $10.00   4,261,095   3.09     9.73   4,261,095     9.73
$ 10.001 - $11.00   4,705,160   3.91     10.50   4,705,160     10.50
$ 11.001 - $13.00   6,631,027   5.03     12.53   6,631,027     12.53
$ 13.001 - $14.00   1,562,150   2.69     13.36   1,562,150     13.36
$ 14.001 - $19.00   1,403,751   5.10     17.23   972,387     17.17
$ 19.001 - $20.00   8,938,927   6.16     19.15   6,341,239     19.15
$ 20.001 - $21.00   2,818,710   2.55     20.68   2,639,773     20.67
$ 21.001 - $22.00   10,823,682   7.40     21.31   5,130,609     21.32
$ 22.001 - $25.00   9,579,119   8.89     24.29   1,294,520     24.04
$ 25.001 - $28.00   174,172   8.94     26.63   24,062     26.97
 
 
 
 
 
$     0.00 - $28.00   51,374,926   5.97   $ 17.90   34,039,155   $ 15.63
 
 
 
 
 

        The number of exercisable shares was 34.0 million at February 2, 2008, 35.2 million at February 3, 2007 and 36.8 million at January 28, 2006.

        For options granted prior to May 1, 2005, the fair value for these options was estimated at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model. For stock options granted on or after May 1, 2005, the fair value of each award is estimated on the date of grant using a binomial valuation model. The binomial model considers characteristics of fair value option pricing that are not available under the Black-Scholes model. Similar to the Black-Scholes model, the binomial model takes into account variables such as volatility, dividend yield rate, and risk free interest rate. However, in addition, the binomial model considers the contractual term of the option, the probability that the option will be exercised prior to the end of its contractual life, and the probability of termination or retirement of the option holder in computing the value of the option. For these reasons, the Company believes that the binomial model provides a fair value that is more representative of actual experience and future expected experience than that value calculated using the Black-Scholes model.

C-18

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE H Employee Benefit Plans (Continued)

        The fair value of options granted in each year was estimated at the date of grant using the following weighted average assumptions:

 
   2007
   2006
   2005
Risk free interest rate   4.7%   5.0%   3.8%
Expected dividend yield   0.9%   0.8%   0.8%
Expected stock volatility   29%   31%   33%
Expected life of options   5.3 years   5.1 years   5.0 years

        The expected stock volatility factor was calculated using an average of historical and implied volatility measures to reflect the different periods in the Company's history that would impact the value of the stock options granted to employees. The fair value of stock options is expensed over the applicable vesting period using the straight line method.

        In 2003, the Company began granting Restricted Shares in lieu of special grants of stock options. All shares underlying awards of Restricted Shares are restricted in that they are not transferable (i.e., they may not be sold) until they vest. Subject to limited exceptions, if the employees who received the Restricted Shares leave Staples prior to the vesting date for any reason, the Restricted Shares will be forfeited and returned to Staples. The following table summarizes the Company's grants of Restricted Shares in fiscal 2007:

 
   Number of Shares
   Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share
Outstanding at February 4, 2007   5,335,665   $ 24.32
  Granted   6,261,768     24.64
  Released   (501,874 )   22.49
  Canceled   (1,238,290 )   24.39
   
 
Outstanding at February 2, 2008   9,857,269   $ 24.61
   
 

        Prior to fiscal year 2006, Staples issued performance accelerated restricted stock ("PARS") to employees of Staples. The shares were restricted in that they were not transferable (i.e., they may not be sold) by the employee until they vested, generally after the end of five years. Such vesting date was subject to acceleration if Staples achieved certain compound annual earnings per share growth over a certain number of interim years. No PARS were outstanding as of February 2, 2008. PARS issued in fiscal year 2005 had a weighted-average fair market value of $21.72 and vested in March 2007 as a result of Staples achieving its earnings per share growth target for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007.

        In fiscal 2006, the Company began issuing performance shares. Performance shares are restricted stock awards that vest only if the Company meets minimum performance targets. For the 2006 and 2007 performance share awards, the performance targets have been established based on cumulative returns on net assets over a three year period. If, at the end of each three year period, the Company's performance falls between minimum and maximum targets, then a percentage of the performance shares, from 90% up to 200% will vest. If the Company does not achieve the minimum performance target, none of the performance share awards will vest.

        The fair value of performance shares is based upon the market price of the underlying common stock as of the date of grant. As of February 2, 2008, Staples had 818,659 performance shares that were issued during fiscal years 2007 and 2006. The shares have a weighted-average fair market value of $24.63.

C-19

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE H Employee Benefit Plans (Continued)

Employees' 401(k) Savings Plan

        Staples' Employees' 401(k) Savings Plan (the "401(k) Plan") is available to all United States based employees of Staples who meet minimum age and length of service requirements. Company contributions are based upon a matching formula applied to employee contributions that are made in the form of Company common stock and vest ratably over a five year period. The Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (the "SERP Plan"), which is similar in many respects to the 401(k) Plan, is available to certain Company executives and other highly compensated employees, whose contributions to the 401(k) Plan are limited, and allows such individuals to supplement their contributions to the 401(k) Plan by making pre-tax contributions to the SERP Plan. Company contributions to the SERP Plan are based on a similar matching formula and vesting period; however, beginning in October 2004, such contributions were made in cash rather than in Company common stock.

        At February 2, 2008, 52.4 million shares of common stock were reserved for issuance under Staples' 2004 Plan, 401(k) Plan and employee stock purchase plans.

NOTE I Stockholders' Equity

        In fiscal 2007, the Company repurchased 31.6 million shares of the Company's common stock for a total purchase price (including commissions) of $750.0 million under the Company's 2005 and 2007 share repurchase programs. The 2007 share repurchase program replaced the 2005 $1.5 billion share repurchase program (the "2005 Share Repurchase Program") and went into effect during the second quarter of 2007. The 2007 share repurchase program allows for the repurchase of $1.5 billion of Staples common stock and has no expiration date. In 2006, the Company repurchased 30.3 million shares of the Company's common stock for a total purchase price (including commissions) of $749.9 million. In 2005, the Company repurchased 30.1 million shares of the Company's common stock for a total purchase price (including commissions) of $649.6 million.

NOTE J Computation of Earnings per Common Share

        Earnings per share has been presented below for Staples common stock for fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005 (amounts in thousands, except per share data):

 
   2007
   2006
   2005
Numerator:                  
  Net income   $ 995,670   $ 973,677   $ 784,117
Denominator:                  
  Weighted-average common shares outstanding     704,828     720,528     731,622
Effect of dilutive securities:                  
  Employee stock options and restricted shares     15,374     19,150     18,794
   
 
 
Weighted-average shares assuming dilution     720,202     739,678     750,416
   
 
 
Basic earnings per common share   $ 1.41   $ 1.35   $ 1.07
   
 
 
Diluted earnings per common share   $ 1.38   $ 1.32   $ 1.04
   
 
 

        Options to purchase shares of common stock are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share when their inclusion would have an anti-dilutive effect on the calculation. Options to purchase 9.8 million shares, 0.1 million shares and 0.2 million shares of Staples common stock were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for fiscal 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

NOTE K Segment Reporting

        Staples has three reportable segments: North American Retail, North American Delivery and International Operations. Staples' North American Retail segment consists of the U.S and Canadian business units that operate office

C-20

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE K Segment Reporting (Continued)


supply stores. The North American Delivery segment consists of the U.S. and Canadian business units that sell and deliver office products and services directly to customers, and includes Staples Business Delivery, Quill and Contract. The International Operations segment consists of operating units that operate office supply stores and that sell and deliver office products and services directly to customers in 20 countries in Europe, Asia and South America.

        Staples evaluates performance and allocates resources based on profit or loss from operations before stock-based compensation, interest and income taxes, the impact of changes in accounting principles and non-recurring items ("business unit income"). The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note A. Intersegment sales and transfers are recorded at Staples' cost; therefore, there is no intercompany profit or loss recognized on these transactions.

        Staples' North American Retail and North American Delivery segments are managed separately because the way they market products is different, the classes of customers they service may be different, and the distribution methods used to deliver products to customers is different. The International Operations are considered a separate reportable segment because of the significant difference in the operating environment from the North American operations.

        The following is a summary of significant accounts and balances by reportable segment for fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005 (in thousands):

 
   2007
   2006
   2005
  
Sales:                    
  North American Retail   $ 10,020,941   $ 9,893,107   $ 9,015,851  
  North American Delivery     6,614,202     5,908,872     4,967,323  
  International Operations     2,737,539     2,358,810     2,095,678  
   
 
 
 
    Total segment sales   $ 19,372,682   $ 18,160,789   $ 16,078,852  
   
 
 
 
Business Unit Income:                    
  North American Retail   $ 949,038   $ 957,386   $ 842,995  
  North American Delivery     712,558     623,908     507,276  
  International Operations     97,996     50,511     13,616  
   
 
 
 
    Business unit income     1,759,592     1,631,805     1,363,887  
  Stock-based compensation     (173,343 )   (157,907 )   (129,806 )
   
 
 
 
    Total segment income   $ 1,586,249   $ 1,473,898   $ 1,234,081  
   
 
 
 
Depreciation & Amortization:                    
  North American Retail   $ 248,329   $ 210,698   $ 192,112  
  North American Delivery     83,996     74,027     60,103  
  International Operations     56,570     54,574     51,685  
   
 
 
 
    Consolidated   $ 388,895   $ 339,299   $ 303,900  
   
 
 
 
Capital Expenditures:                    
  North American Retail   $ 274,054   $ 319,793   $ 284,173  
  North American Delivery     106,962     141,957     87,992  
  International Operations     89,361     66,725     83,938  
   
 
 
 
    Consolidated   $ 470,377   $ 528,475   $ 456,103  
   
 
 
 

C-21

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE K Segment Reporting (Continued)

        The following is a reconciliation of total segment income to income before income taxes and minority interest for fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005 (in thousands):

 
   2007
   2006
   2005
Total segment income   $ 1,586,249   $ 1,473,898   $ 1,234,081
Other income     6,233     8,259     1,218
Impact of correction of prior years' stock-based compensation     —     (10,829 )   —
Impact of wage and hour settlement     (38,000 )   —     —
   
 
 
Income before income taxes and minority interest   $ 1,554,482   $ 1,471,328   $ 1,235,299
   
 
 
 
 
   February 2, 2008
   February 3, 2007
   January 28, 2006
  
Assets:                    
  North American Retail   $ 3,554,465   $ 3,693,771   $ 3,472,130  
  North American Delivery     2,521,384     2,191,130     2,042,065  
  International Operations     2,973,099     2,510,596     2,238,833  
   
 
 
 
    Total     9,048,948     8,395,497     7,753,028  
  Elimination of net intercompany receivables     (12,604 )   1,768     (20,308 )
   
 
 
 
    Total consolidated assets   $ 9,036,344   $ 8,397,265   $ 7,732,720  
   
 
 
 
 
   2007
   2006
   2005
Sales:                  
  United States   $ 14,160,733   $ 13,514,677   $ 11,967,718
  Canada     2,474,410     2,287,302     2,015,456
  International     2,737,539     2,358,810     2,095,678
   
 
 
  Consolidated   $ 19,372,682   $ 18,160,789   $ 16,078,852
   
 
 
 
 
   February 2, 2008
   February 3, 2007
   January 28, 2006
Long-lived Assets:                  
  United States   $ 2,002,548   $ 1,857,093   $ 1,667,475
  Canada     311,723     271,660     275,672
  International     1,874,505     1,566,443     1,469,279
   
 
 
  Consolidated   $ 4,188,776   $ 3,695,196   $ 3,412,426
   
 
 

NOTE L Guarantor Subsidiaries

        Under the terms of the Company's Notes and its Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, certain subsidiaries guarantee repayment of the debt. The Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on an unsecured, joint and several basis by Staples the Office Superstore, LLC, Staples the Office Superstore East, Inc., Staples Contract & Commercial, Inc., and Staples the Office Superstore, Limited Partnership, all of which are wholly owned subsidiaries of Staples (the "Guarantor Subsidiaries"). The term of guarantees is equivalent to the term of the related debt. The following condensed consolidating financial data is presented for the holders of the Notes and illustrates the composition of Staples, Inc. (the "Parent Company"), Guarantor Subsidiaries, and non-guarantor subsidiaries as of February 2, 2008 and February 3, 2007 and for the fiscal years ended February 2, 2008, February 3, 2007 and January 28, 2006. The non-guarantor subsidiaries represent more than an inconsequential portion of the consolidated assets and revenues of Staples.

C-22

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE L Guarantor Subsidiaries (Continued)

        Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for by the Parent Company on the equity method for purposes of the supplemental consolidating presentation. Earnings of subsidiaries are, therefore, reflected in the Parent Company's investment accounts and earnings. The principal elimination entries eliminate the Parent Company's investment in subsidiaries and intercompany balances and transactions.

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of February 2, 2008
(in thousands)

 
   Staples, Inc.
(Parent Co.)
   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Eliminations
   Consolidated
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 638,543   $ 42,612   $ 564,293   $ —   $ 1,245,448
Short-term investments     27,016     —     —     —     27,016
Merchandise inventories     —     1,271,978     781,185     —     2,053,163
Other current assets     38,343     632,238     559,174     —     1,229,755
   
 
 
 
 
  Total current assets     703,902     1,946,828     1,904,652     —     4,555,382
Net property, equipment and other assets     354,949     1,326,736     1,034,349     —     2,716,034
Goodwill, net of amortization     296,511     154,527     1,313,890     —     1,764,928
Investment in affiliates and intercompany, net     (1,055,173 )   3,069,532     3,070,975     (5,085,334 )   —
   
 
 
 
 
  Total assets   $ 300,189   $ 6,497,623   $ 7,323,866   $ (5,085,334 ) $ 9,036,344
   
 
 
 
 
Total current liabilities   $ 340,421   $ 1,150,712   $ 1,118,765   $ —   $ 2,609,898
Total long-term liabilities     128,300     472,554     97,358     —     698,212
Minority interest     —     —     10,227     —     10,227
Total stockholders' equity     (168,532 )   4,874,357     6,097,516     (5,085,334 )   5,718,007
   
 
 
 
 
  Total liabilities and stockholders' equity   $ 300,189   $ 6,497,623   $ 7,323,866   $ (5,085,334 ) $ 9,036,344
   
 
 
 
 

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of February 3, 2007
(in thousands)

 
   Staples, Inc.
(Parent Co.)
   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Eliminations
   Consolidated
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 476,549   $ 49,687   $ 491,435   $ —   $ 1,017,671
Short-term investments     457,759     —     —     —     457,759
Merchandise inventories     —     1,203,498     716,216     —     1,919,714
Other current assets     122,172     457,068     456,979     —     1,036,219
   
 
 
 
 
  Total current assets     1,056,480     1,710,253     1,664,630     —     4,431,363
Net property, equipment and other assets     460,678     1,156,073     894,038     —     2,510,789
Goodwill, net of amortization     175,625     110,140     1,169,348     —     1,455,113
Investment in affiliates and intercompany, net     (892,119 )   3,067,979     2,822,520     (4,998,380 )   —
   
 
 
 
 
  Total assets   $ 800,664   $ 6,044,445   $ 6,550,536   $ (4,998,380 ) $ 8,397,265
   
 
 
 
 
Total current liabilities   $ 416,459   $ 1,378,130   $ 993,794   $ —   $ 2,788,383
Total long-term liabilities     34,412     416,607     127,089     —     578,108
Minority interest     —     —     9,109     —     9,109
Total stockholders' equity     349,793     4,249,708     5,420,544     (4,998,380 )   5,021,665
   
 
 
 
 
  Total liabilities and stockholders' equity   $ 800,664   $ 6,044,445   $ 6,550,536   $ (4,998,380 ) $ 8,397,265
   
 
 
 
 

C-23

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE L Guarantor Subsidiaries (Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
For the year ended February 2, 2008
(in thousands)

 
   Staples, Inc.
(Parent Co.)
   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Consolidated
  
Sales   $ —   $ 12,661,177   $ 6,711,505   $ 19,372,682  
Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs     10,573     9,203,539     4,607,899     13,822,011  
   
 
 
 
 
Gross profit (loss)     (10,573 )   3,457,638     2,103,606     5,550,671  
Operating and other expenses     (24,894 )   2,581,068     1,440,015     3.996,189  
   
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes and minority interest     14,321     876,570     663,591     1,554,482  
Income tax expense     —     360,893     198,721     559,614  
   
 
 
 
 
Income before minority interest     14,321     515,677     464,870     994,868  
Minority interest     —     —     (802 )   (802 )
   
 
 
 
 
Net income   $ 14,321   $ 515,677   $ 465,672   $ 995,670  
   
 
 
 
 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
For the year ended February 3, 2007
(in thousands)

 
   Staples, Inc.
(Parent Co.)
   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Consolidated
  
Sales   $ —   $ 12,069,327   $ 6,091,462   $ 18,160,789  
Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs     8,459     8,665,100     4,293,229     12,966,788  
   
 
 
 
 
Gross profit (loss)     (8,459 )   3,404,227     1,798,233     5,194,001  
Operating and other expenses     344,519     2,283,044     1,095,110     3,722,673  
   
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest     (352,978 )   1,121,183     703,123     1,471,328  
Income tax expense     —     259,428     238,544     497,972  
   
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) before minority interest     (352,978 )   861,755     464,579     973,356  
Minority interest     —     —     (321 )   (321 )
   
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)   $ (352,978 ) $ 861,755   $ 464,900   $ 973,677  
   
 
 
 
 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income
For the year ended January 28, 2006
(in thousands)

 
   Staples, Inc.
(Parent Co.)
   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Consolidated
Sales   $ —   $ 10,649,559   $ 5,429,293   $ 16,078,852
Cost of goods sold and occupancy costs     3,957     7,646,490     3,845,787     11,496,234
   
 
 
 
Gross profit (loss)     (3,957 )   3,003,069     1,583,506     4,582,618
Operating and other expenses     76,844     1,983,815     1,286,660     3,347,319
   
 
 
 
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest     (80,801 )   1,019,254     296,846     1,235,299
Income tax expense     —     337,635     113,249     450,884
   
 
 
 
Income (loss) before minority interest     (80,801 )   681,619     183,597     784,415
Minority interest     —     —     298     298
   
 
 
 
Net income (loss)   $ (80,801 ) $ 681,619   $ 183,299   $ 784,117
   
 
 
 

C-24

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE L Guarantor Subsidiaries (Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
For the year ended February 2, 2008
(in thousands)

 
   Staples, Inc.
(Parent Co.)
   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Consolidated
  
Net cash provided by operating activities   $ 794,537   $ 315,338   $ 251,141   $ 1,361,016  
Investing activities:                          
  Acquisition of property, equipment and lease rights     (79,192 )   (257,154 )   (134,031 )   (470,377 )
  Acquisition of businesses and investments in joint ventures, net of cash acquired     —     (82,202 )   (95,875 )   (178,077 )
  Purchase of short-term investments     (4,148,716 )   —     —     (4,148,716 )
  Proceeds from the sale of short-term investments     4,579,460     —     —     4,579,460  
   
 
 
 
 
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities     351,552     (339,356 )   (229,906 )   (217,710 )
Financing activities:                          
  Payments on borrowings     (206,515 )   —     —     (206,515 )
  Purchase of treasury stock, net     (760,977 )               (760,977 )
  Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation arrangements     649     16,943     965     18,557  
  Cash dividends paid     (207,552 )   —     —     (207,552 )
  Other     190,300     —     —     190,300  
   
 
 
 
 
Cash (used in) provided by financing activities     (984,095 )   16,943     965     (966,187 )
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash     —     —     50,658     50,658  
   
 
 
 
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash     161,994     (7,075 )   72,858     227,777  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period     476,549     49,687     491,435     1,017,671  
   
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period   $ 638,543   $ 42,612   $ 564,293   $ 1,245,448  
   
 
 
 
 

C-25

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE L Guarantor Subsidiaries (Continued)

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
For the year ended February 3, 2007
(in thousands)

 
   Staples, Inc.
(Parent Co.)
   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Consolidated
  
Net cash provided by operating activities   $ 663,676   $ 387,110   $ 100,215   $ 1,151,001  
Investing activities:                          
  Acquisition of property, equipment and lease rights     (72,465 )   (387,127 )   (68,883 )   (528,475 )
  Acquisition of businesses and investments in joint ventures, net of cash acquired     —     (29,654 )   (2,096 )   (31,750 )
  Purchase of short-term investments     (8,223,063 )   —     —     (8,223,063 )
  Proceeds from the sale of short-term investments     8,358,384     —     —     8,358,384  
   
 
 
 
 
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities     62,856     (416,781 )   (70,979 )   (424,904 )
Financing activities:                          
  Payments on borrowings     (5,191 )   —     —     (5,191 )
  Purchase of treasury stock, net     (775,822 )               (775,822 )
  Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation arrangements     2,958     29,968     3,143     36,069  
  Cash dividends paid     (160,883 )   —     —     (160,883 )
  Other     209,251     —     —     209,251  
   
 
 
 
 
Cash (used in) provided by financing activities     (729,687 )   29,968     3,143     (696,576 )
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash     —     —     10,328     10,328  
   
 
 
 
 
Net (decrease) increase in cash     (3,155 )   297     42,707     39,849  
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period     479,704     49,390     448,728     977,822  
   
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period   $ 476,549   $ 49,687   $ 491,435   $ 1,017,671  
   
 
 
 
 

C-26

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE L Guarantor Subsidiaries (Continued)

Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
For the year ended January 28, 2006
(in thousands)

 
   Staples, Inc.
(Parent Co.)
   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-
Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Consolidated
  
Net cash provided by operating activities   $ 800,962   $ 227,372   $ 170,287   $ 1,198,621  
Investing activities:                          
  Acquisition of property, equipment and lease rights     (95,311 )   (212,254 )   (148,538 )   (456,103 )
  Acquisition of businesses and investment in joint ventures, net of cash acquired     (16,636 )   (40,560 )   —     (57,196 )
  Purchase of short-term investments     (8,218,049 )   —     —     (8,218,049 )
  Proceeds from the sale of short-term investments     8,097,199     —     —     8,097,199  
   
 
 
 
 
Cash used in investing activities     (232,797 )   (252,814 )   (148,538 )   (634,149 )
Financing activities:                          
  Payments on borrowings     (16,735 )   —     —     (16,735 )
  Purchase of treasury stock, net     (663,145 )   —     —     (663,145 )
  Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation arrangements     3,014     30,532     3,202     36,748  
  Cash dividends paid     (123,402 )   —     —     (123,402 )
  Other     182,532     —     —     182,532  
   
 
 
 
 
Cash (used in) provided by financing activities     (617,736 )   30,532     3,202     (584,002 )
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash     —     —     42     42  
   
 
 
 
 
Net (decrease) increase in cash     (49,571 )   5,090     24,993     (19,488 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period     529,275     44,300     423,735     997,310  
   
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period   $ 479,704   $ 49,390   $ 448,728   $ 977,822  
   
 
 
 
 

NOTE M Quarterly Summary (Unaudited)

 
   (In thousands, except per share amounts)
 
   First Quarter
   Second Quarter
   Third Quarter(1)
   Fourth Quarter
Fiscal Year Ended February 2, 2008                        
  Sales   $ 4,589,465   $ 4,290,424   $ 5,168,351   $ 5,324,442
  Gross profit     1,284,939     1,210,367     1,505,674     1,549,691
  Net income     209,143     178,828     274,518     333,181

Basic earnings per common share
 
$
0.29
 
$
0.25
 
$
0.39
 
$
0.48

Diluted earnings per share
 
$
0.29
 
$
0.25
 
$
0.38
 
$
0.47

C-27

STAPLES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

NOTE M Quarterly Summary (Unaudited) (Continued)

 
 
   First Quarter
   Second Quarter
   Third Quarter(2)
   Fourth Quarter(3)
Fiscal Year Ended February 3, 2007                        
  Sales   $ 4,237,646   $ 3,880,674   $ 4,756,550   $ 5,285,919
  Gross profit     1,188,997     1,096,604     1,362,458     1,545,942
  Net income     186,074     161,177     289,928     336,498

Basic earnings per common share
 
$
0.26
 
$
0.22
 
$
0.40
 
$
0.47

Diluted earnings per share
 
$
0.25
 
$
0.22
 
$
0.39
 
$
0.46
(1)
Results of operations for this period include a $24.3 million charge, net of taxes ($0.04 per diluted share) related to the settlement of California wage and hour class action litigation.

(2)
Results of operations for this period include a $33.3 million ($0.05 per diluted share) reduction in income taxes related to the favorable resolution of certain foreign and domestic tax matters and an $8.6 million charge, net of taxes ($0.01 per diluted share) to correct the measurement dates used to calculate prior years' stock-based compensation (see Note H).

(3)
Fiscal year 2006 includes 53 weeks in accordance with the Company's 52 week, 53 week retail calendar; accordingly, the fourth quarter includes 14 weeks.

NOTE N Subsequent Event (Unaudited)

        On February 19, 2008, the Company announced that it had made a proposal to Corporate Express NV (NYSE: CXP), a Dutch office products distributor with operations in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, to acquire all of the outstanding shares of its ordinary stock for a cash consideration of 7.25 Euros per share, representing a total enterprise value of approximately 2.5 billion Euros (approximately $3.7 billion). To finance a portion of this proposed acquisition, the Company entered into a bridge loan commitment letter with Lehman Brothers on customary terms and conditions. The Company may only borrow amounts pursuant to this committed financing in connection with the proposed acquisition of Corporate Express NV. The Company believes that this committed financing together with the Company's cash and available credit under its revolving credit facility will be sufficient to finance the acquisition. Corporate Express, in a public statement issued the same day, rejected the Company's proposal.

C-28


Item 15(a)2

Staples, Inc.
SCHEDULE II—VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Accounts Receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Valuation and qualifying account information related to operations is as follows (in thousands):

 
   Balance at
Beginning of
Period
   Additions Charged
to Expense
   Additions from
Acquisition
   Deductions—
Write-offs, Payments
and Other Adjustments
   Balance at End
of Period
Fiscal year ended:                              
January 28, 2006   $ 16,513   $ 13,732   $ 185   $ 14,078   $ 16,352
February 3, 2007     16,352     15,106     153     12,793     18,818
February 2, 2008     18,818     21,174     342     17,831     22,503

C-29

EXHIBIT INDEX

EXHIBIT NO.
    
   DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT
3.1 ^ —   Second Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company. Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2003.
3.2 ^ —   Amended and Restated By-laws of the Company, as amended. Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August 4, 2007.
4.1 ^ —   Indenture, dated September 30, 2002, for the 7.375% Senior Notes due 2012, by and among the Company, the Guarantor Subsidiaries and HSBC Bank USA. Filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on October 8, 2002.
4.2 ^ —   First Supplemental Indenture (7.375% Senior Notes), entered into as of February 1, 2004, to Indenture, dated as of September 30, 2002, by and among the Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Initial Subsidiary Guarantors and HSBC Bank USA. Filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 1, 2004.
10.1 ^ —   Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, dated as of October 13, 2006, by and among the Company, the lenders named therein, Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Citibank N.A., as Syndication Agent, and HSBC Bank USA, National Association, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., and Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Co-Documentation Agents, with Banc of America Securities LLC having acted as sole Lead Arranger and sole Book Manager. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on October 19, 2006.
10.2 *^ —   Employment Agreement, dated as of February 3, 2002, by and between the Company and Thomas G. Stemberg. Filed as Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2003.
10.3 *^ —   First Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated January 26, 2004, by and between the Company and Thomas G. Stemberg. Filed as Exhibit 10.8 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2004.
10.4 *^ —   Offer Letter, dated July 30, 2003, by and between the Company and Michael A. Miles. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 1, 2003.
10.5 *^ —   Second Amended and Restated Severance Benefits Agreement, dated March 10, 2006, by and between the Company and Ronald L. Sargent. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 29, 2006.
10.6 *^ —   Amended and Restated Severance Benefits Agreement, dated March 13, 2006, by and between the Company and John J. Mahoney. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 29, 2006.
10.7 *^ —   Amended and Restated Severance Benefits Agreement, dated March 13, 2006, by and between the Company and Michael A. Miles. Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 29, 2006.
10.8 *^ —   Form of Severance Benefits Agreement signed by executive officers of the Company. Filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 29, 2006.
10.9 *^ —   Form of Non-Compete and Non-Solicitation Agreement signed by executive officers of the Company. Filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2000.
10.10 *^ —   Form of Proprietary and Confidential Information Agreement signed by executive officers of the Company. Filed as Exhibit 10.30 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2005.
10.11 *^ —   Executive Officer Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2003.
10.12 *^ —   Non-Management Director Compensation Summary. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 29, 2005.
10.13 *+ —   Amended and Restated 2004 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended.
10.14 *+ —   Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement under the Amended and Restated 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.
10.15 *+ —   Form of Executive Restricted Stock Award Agreement under the Amended and Restated 2004 Stock Incentive Plan.
10.16 *+ —   Form of Performance Share Award Agreement.

C-30

10.17 *^ —   Form of Non-Employee Director Stock Option Agreement under the Amended and Restated 2004 Stock Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.19 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007.
10.18 *^ —   Form of Non-Employee Director Restricted Stock Award Agreement under the Amended and Restated 2004 Stock Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 2, 2007.
10.19 *^** —   Performance Share Award Agreement dated March 8, 2007 by and between the Company and Ronald L. Sargent. Filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 5, 2007.
10.20 *^ —   Restricted Stock Award Agreement dated March 8, 2007 by and between the Company and Ronald L. Sargent. Filed as Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 5, 2007.
10.21 *+ —   Amended and Restated 1992 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended.
10.22 *+ —   Amended and Restated 1990 Director Stock Option Plan, as amended.
10.23 *^ —   1997 United Kingdom Company Share Option Scheme. Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 1998.
10.24 *^ —   1997 UK Savings Related Share Option Scheme. Filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2003.
10.25 *+ —   Amended and Restated 1998 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended.
10.26 *+ —   Amended and Restated International Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended.
10.27 *^ —   Long Term Care Insurance Plan Summary. Filed as Exhibit 10.23 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2005.
10.28 *^ —   Survivor Benefit Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.24 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2005.
10.29 *^ —   Executive Life Insurance Program Summary. Filed as Exhibit 10.25 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2005.
10.30 *+ —   Amended and Restated Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan.
10.31 *^ —   Policy on Personal Use of Corporate Aircraft. Filed as Exhibit 10.28 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 29, 2005.
10.32 *^ —   Senior Executive Long Term Disability Supplemental Coverage Reimbursement Policy. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 30, 2005.
10.33 *^ —   Tax Services Reimbursement Program. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 30, 2005.
14.1 ^ —   Code of Ethics. Filed as Exhibit 14.1 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007.
21.1 + —   Subsidiaries of the Company.
23.1 + —   Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
31.1 + —   Principal Executive Officer—Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2 + —   Principal Financial Officer—Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1 ++ —   Principal Executive Officer—Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2 ++ —   Principal Financial Officer—Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
*
A management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit to this annual report pursuant to Item 15(b) of Form 10-K.

**
Portions of the exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a grant of confidential treatment.

^
An exhibit previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and incorporated herein by reference. Unless otherwise indicated, such exhibit was filed under Commission File Number 0-17586.

+
Filed herewith.

++
Furnished herewith.

C-31