The retail apocalypse has claimed another victim — and this one has been quietly bleeding locations for over a decade. Office Depot, once a dominant force in office supplies, has now closed more than half its stores since 2013, totaling over 1,000 locations shuttered. The news, reported by TheStreet, underscores a grim reality for brick-and-mortar retail: even giants are not immune.
How Office Depot lost half its footprint
Since 2013, Office Depot has systematically reduced its physical presence. The chain, which once operated over 1,800 stores in the U.S., has now closed more than 1,000 locations. The closures have been gradual but relentless, with no sign of stopping. TheStreet's report highlights that the chain has shut down more than half its stores, a staggering figure for a company that was once a household name for office supplies.
Why this matters for shoppers and small businesses
For millions of Americans, Office Depot was the go-to for printer ink, paper, and office furniture. The closures mean fewer options for last-minute office supplies, especially in suburban and rural areas. Small businesses, which often relied on same-day pickup, now face longer drives or higher shipping costs. The loss of physical stores also eliminates jobs and reduces local tax revenue.
The decade-long decline of office supply retail
Office Depot's troubles began long before the pandemic. The rise of Amazon and other online retailers eroded its core business. Consumers shifted to buying office supplies online, where prices were lower and delivery faster. The company attempted to merge with Staples in 2016, but the deal was blocked by a federal judge over antitrust concerns. Since then, the chain has been in a slow retreat, closing stores to cut costs.
Who is affected by the closures
The closures hit employees hardest. Thousands of retail workers have lost jobs as stores shut down. Communities that relied on Office Depot as a convenient shopping destination now face a retail void. For consumers, the loss means less competition, potentially higher prices at remaining stores. The closures also affect suppliers and vendors who depended on the chain for distribution.
What Office Depot has said about the closures
TheStreet's report did not include a direct statement from Office Depot about the latest closures. However, the company has previously cited changing consumer behavior and the need to optimize its store portfolio. In past earnings calls, executives have emphasized a shift toward business-to-business sales and online fulfillment, reducing reliance on physical retail.
What the retail apocalypse means for Office Depot
Office Depot's decline is part of a larger pattern. The "retail apocalypse" has claimed dozens of chains, including Bed Bath & Beyond, which filed for bankruptcy in 2023 and closed all its stores. Office Depot's situation is less dramatic but equally telling: a slow, steady retreat rather than a sudden collapse. The company is trying to survive by focusing on its B2B division and e-commerce, but its physical footprint continues to shrink.
Confirmed facts vs what remains unclear
Confirmed: Office Depot has closed over 1,000 stores since 2013, representing more than half its locations. The closures have been ongoing and are part of a broader retail trend. Unclear: The exact number of stores currently operating. Office Depot has not released a precise count in recent filings. Also unclear: Whether the chain plans to close more stores in 2025 or if it has reached a stable minimum footprint.
Why Office Depot's business model struggled
Office Depot's core problem was that its product category — office supplies — became commoditized. Printer paper, pens, and ink are easy to sell online, and Amazon offered lower prices and faster delivery. The company's physical stores became liabilities rather than assets. Unlike grocery or apparel retailers, office supply stores offered little that online couldn't replicate. The company's attempt to diversify into services like tech support and printing didn't generate enough foot traffic to offset losses.
Risks and concerns for Office Depot's future
The biggest risk is that Office Depot's remaining stores become unprofitable as sales continue to decline. The company also faces competition from Staples, which has similarly downsized, and from big-box retailers like Walmart and Target that sell office supplies. There is also the risk of further store closures if the company cannot stabilize its revenue. Critics argue that Office Depot has been too slow to adapt to the digital shift, leaving it in a precarious position.
The wider retail apocalypse pattern
Office Depot's story is not unique. The retail apocalypse has reshaped American shopping, with chains like Macy's, Nordstrom, and Kmart all closing hundreds of stores. The trend accelerated during the pandemic, as consumers became more comfortable buying everything online. Office Depot's closures are a reminder that no retailer is safe, especially those selling easily replaceable products. The shift to e-commerce is permanent, and physical retailers must find new reasons for customers to visit.
What shoppers and businesses should do now
If you rely on Office Depot for office supplies, consider diversifying your sources. Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and even direct-from-manufacturer options may offer better prices and delivery. For small businesses, explore bulk purchasing or subscription services to reduce costs. If you have a local Office Depot that is still open, check for clearance sales as the chain continues to downsize. For employees affected by closures, look into job retraining programs or positions in the company's B2B division.
What could happen next for Office Depot
Office Depot is likely to continue closing stores, though the pace may slow if it reaches a core of profitable locations. The company may also pivot further toward B2B sales, which offer higher margins and less competition from Amazon. There is a possibility of a buyout or merger, though regulatory hurdles remain. The most likely scenario is a continued slow decline, with Office Depot becoming a smaller, more focused company that serves business customers rather than individual shoppers.
Our Take
Office Depot's closure of over 1,000 stores is a sobering chapter in the retail apocalypse. It's not a dramatic bankruptcy or a sudden collapse, but a slow, grinding retreat that reflects the fundamental shift in how we shop. The company's decline is a cautionary tale for any retailer that fails to adapt to the digital age. For consumers, it's a reminder that convenience and price often win over loyalty. For investors, it's a signal that legacy retail models are increasingly fragile. Office Depot may survive, but it will never be the giant it once was.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Office Depot stores have closed?
Office Depot has closed over 1,000 stores since 2013, representing more than half of its total locations. The closures have been ongoing and are part of a broader retail downsizing trend.
Why is Office Depot closing so many stores?
Office Depot is closing stores due to declining foot traffic and sales, driven by the rise of online shopping. The company has shifted its focus to B2B sales and e-commerce, making many physical locations unprofitable.
Is Office Depot going out of business?
No, Office Depot is not going out of business. The company continues to operate hundreds of stores and has a growing B2B division. However, its physical footprint is shrinking significantly.
What should I do if my local Office Depot closes?
If your local Office Depot closes, you can shop online at officedepot.com or visit other retailers like Staples, Walmart, or Amazon for office supplies. Check for clearance sales before the store closes.
