OfficeMax opens 'business solutions' store

Naperville-based OfficeMax Inc. has opened the first of a new store format called “Business Solutions Center” in downtown Milwaukee.

The new store format is OfficeMax's first of its kind nationwide, offering 5,000 square feet of specially tailored business services, solutions and products delivered by expert associates to help local entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

The new OfficeMax Business Solutions Center in The Shops of Grand Avenue, 275 W. Wisconsin Avenue, replaces the previous OfficeMax store in that mall. It is designed to address the unique needs of local entrepreneurs and small businesses by providing them with tools and services to help them grow.

“Our OfficeMax Business Solutions Center advances our transformation as a seamless multichannel supplier of workplace products, services and solutions,” said Ravi Saligram, president and CEO of OfficeMax. “With the launch of our new store, we are pleased to introduce a relationship-based retail service center focused on partnering with businesses to help them grow.”

Business services are the core of the new store, which features an integrated service counter staffed by specialists who can offer services to meet customers' business needs in marketing, IT and web solutions including web hosting, customized websites and cloud storage; and computer services including network setup, software installation and repair. Business community space within the store lets customers hold informal meetings, network or simply bring in their laptop to plug in and work. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the store.

“We know these business owners must wear many hats, some of which keep them up at night,” said Michael Lewis, executive vice president and president of Retail at OfficeMax.  “We want local businesses to know that they don't have to go it alone. Every step of the process — from formalizing your business to setting up your office and website to marketing — OfficeMax can be your partner.”

The store provides a portfolio of services to meet marketing and promotional support needs with printing of business cards, business stationery and envelopes, signs, banners, posters and custom printing requirements. Business services including furniture and space planning, packaging and FedEx shipping, and document shredding are also available.