Staples Canada Launches Exciting Back to School Campaign with Exclusive Study Insights

Richmond Hill – Staples Canada has officially kicked off its Back to School campaign, offering teachers, parents, and students top-notch gear and substantial savings for the upcoming school season. As Canada’s primary destination for Back to School shopping, Staples is also proud to release the 2024 Staples Back to School Study, providing valuable insights from parents nationwide regarding their expectations for this year’s Back to School experience.

Rachel Huckle, CEO of Staples Canada, emphasized the importance of understanding customer needs in shaping this year’s campaign. “Our goal is to ensure Canadians are equipped with the right tools, resources, and savings to start the school year on the right foot,” said Huckle. “Our stores, online platforms, and teams are prepared to offer seamless solutions, featuring hundreds of new and notable products at great prices.”

Key Findings from the 2024 Staples Back to School Study

Staples’ comprehensive study highlights several significant trends and preferences among Canadian parents:

• In-Store Shopping Preference: Half of the parents surveyed plan to conduct most, if not all, of their Back to School shopping in-store, with nearly 88% stating that at least half of their shopping will be done in brick-and-mortar locations.
• Efficiency Over Experience: A notable 88% of parents prefer to complete their shopping quickly and efficiently, with 70% viewing it as a chore rather than a family activity.
• Tech Affordability Concerns: With 59% of parents citing technology as a top affordability challenge, there is a strong emphasis on finding deals, promotions, and financing options in this category.
• Comfort with AI in Education: Parents’ comfort with their children using AI for schoolwork increases significantly if the tools are reviewed and approved by their schools. Comfort levels more than double for parents of teens (13-17) and triple for those with younger children (6-12).
• Knowledge Gap in AI Tools: While approximately one-third of parents feel well-informed about AI tools, another third admit to knowing little to nothing, indicating a need for better education and resources.

Comprehensive Back to School Offerings

In response to these insights, Staples Canada has rolled out an extensive range of Back to School offerings designed to meet the diverse needs of students, parents, and teachers.

Savings and Deals: The new Red Dot Savings program features weekly deals on essential school supplies, both in-store and online. Additionally, Staples’ price match guarantee and financing options through Flexiti ensure customers always get the best deals.

AI-Enabled Tech Products: Staples has introduced innovative AI-enabled tech products, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones from leading brands like Microsoft, Google, Apple, Samsung, and Lenovo. Tech experts are available to provide personalized advice and knowledge on AI capabilities.

Staples Protection Plans: Offered by Allstate, these plans cover mechanical and electrical failures, as well as accidental damage for various electronics, ensuring long-term protection.

Wireless Solutions: Staples stores now offer comprehensive phone, internet, and TV solutions from Bell, Virgin Plus, and Lucky Mobile, catering especially to post-secondary students with tailored wireless plans.

Exclusive Brand – Pep Rally: The latest line of school essentials from Pep Rally includes three new collections: Retro Love, Classic Academia, and Joyful Expression, allowing students to express their unique styles.

Enhanced In-Store Experience

This year, Staples has partnered with GeekSpeak Commerce to introduce the ‘Backpack Challenge,’ an Augmented Reality (AR) experience aimed at children aged 6 to 11. The interactive game transforms Staples stores into a digital adventure playground, making Back to School shopping fun for kids and convenient for parents.

Celebrating Back to School “Feels”

Staples’ new ad campaign, featuring real Canadian creators, celebrates the emotional highs of Back to School season with compelling visuals and stories from parents, teachers, and students across the country. The campaign underscores the fantastic deals and savings that Staples offers, ensuring a positive and supportive start to the school year.

For more information on Staples Canada’s Back to School offerings, visit your nearest Staples store or shop online at Staples.ca.