We reported last week that Staples would begin selling Apple accessories in its stores. Now there are indications that they’ll be selling a broader range of products, such as Macs, iPads, and iPhones.
One source has now shared screenshots of training materials for Staples sales associates, revealing training modules addressing not only the Apple TV currently being offered Staples but also Mac notebooks, iPhones, and iPads. It is unclear if Mac desktops are not going to be carried by Staples or if perhaps those offerings will be limited to certain locations.
Staples’ curriculum description for iPhone 5 training reads: “At the end of this curriculum, associates will be able to describe key features of the Apple iPhone 5, and suggest attachments that compliment the iPhone 5.”
All of the training modules for the Apple products refer to a completion due date of March 26th or 27th, which suggests a late March/early April in-store launch window for the products.
Staples has over 1,500 retail locations in the U.S., which would be a huge expansion of the Apple distribution chain if all of their stores do offer the Apple products. It should also make Apple’s devices more appealing to businesses who already have a relationship with the Staples chain.
