Enabling a Collaborative Approach to Restructuring
ORGANIZATION
Staples
INDUSTRY
Retail
ABOUT
Staples provides a broad assortment of products, expanded business services, and easy ways to shop in both retail stores and online for individual consumers and mid- to large-sized businesses.
CHALLENGE
In 2013, Staples, the multinational retailer of office supplies, initiated a massive restructuring of its European operations. It was possibly the largest transformation in their industry. As a result of the tremendous changes involved, which included large-scale layoffs and significant revisions of roles and responsibilities, Staples Europe’s employees faced intense pressure.
As a result, there was tremendous tension within the company—tension that appeared as «a state of virtual warfare» among functions and locations. Very little business was getting done as a result.
Recognizing that their carefully conceived transformation plan had no chance of succeeding in such an environment, Staples turned to Arbinger for help.
CHALLENGE
From June 2013 through January 2015, Arbinger designed and led customized work sessions every three to six months with the senior levels of Staples Europe leadership.
“Staples has better results thanks to the new mindset of all the players within the company.”
ROLAND LASCHET
Managing Director | Staples Retail Benelux
