Staples, ERI partner on e-scrap program

Retailer creates program to boost recycling of electronic scrap from businesses.

Staples Advantage, the business-to-business division of the office supply superstore Staples, along with the electronics recycling firm Electronic Recyclers International Inc. (ERI), Fresno, California, has launched a technology recycling service for businesses.

The two companies say the program will allow businesses to recycle large volumes of electronics conveniently, responsibly and in a secure manner.

“This program demonstrates how Staples continues to lead the industry in recycling efforts,” says Al Zoldos, vice president of sales for Staples Technology Solutions. “In 2007, we were the first retailer to offer recycling at our retail stores. Now, we’re the first to provide a way for our corporate customers to easily and responsibly recycle old electronics. From provisioning new equipment, then providing services to manage it and now an easy way to handle end of life recycling, we’re offering a true lifecycle approach to technology management.”

Through the recycling program businesses can recycle their equipment by:

  • ordering recycling boxes online at www.StaplesAdvantage.com;
  • filling the boxes with obsolete electronics and ship them back to Staples using a provided return label; and
  • receiving a Certificate of Recycling from Staples that the electronics have been properly recycled and their data safely removed. 
“Staples Advantage is filling a void desperately needed in our industry—a way for companies to easily and securely recycle the mass amounts of e-waste being created annually,” says John Shegerian, chairman and CEO of ERI. “Staples recognized this need and implemented this program, not because they’re required to, but because they know it’s the right thing to do. We’re privileged to be partnering with Staples on this initiative.”

Staples Advantage says it also will integrate the offering into its future Managed Print Services contracts, providing a seamless way for companies to recycle devices no longer needed after a consolidation effort.

The cost for this service will range from $15 to $500 depending on the size of the box ordered, the companies say. Customized solutions also are available.