Staples AI Adoption Tracker
Last updated: August 9, 2026
Overview
Staples Inc. is pursuing a comprehensive AI strategy across multiple business functions, leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance both customer experience and operational efficiency. The office products retailer has implemented AI-powered robotics systems in fulfillment centers through partnerships with RightHand Robotics and Guozi Robotics, helping achieve next-day delivery to over 98% of the U.S. [1] Through close collaboration with RightHand Robotics, Staples developed new features that nearly doubled the range of items a RightPick station can handle while reducing required interventions by 80% [1]. The company has also integrated AI into customer service through its Easy System platform, which incorporates IBM Watson technology for chatbots, voice recognition, and omnichannel ordering [2]. Additionally, Staples has adopted Manhattan Associates' warehouse management platform and is deploying Locus Robotics' autonomous mobile robots at facilities like Montgomery, NY, where 250 tote-handling AGVs work alongside 36 human-operated picking stations [3].
AI Maturity Index
Radar Comparison
Peer Comparison: Staples vs retail
Based on 41 companies in sector
| Dimension | Staples | Sector Avg | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adoption | 4.0 | 3.5 | +0.5 |
| Proficiency | 3.0 | 3.2 | -0.2 |
| Impact | 4.0 | 3.3 | +0.7 |
| Overall | 3.7 | 3.3 | +0.4 |
Key Metrics
AI Initiatives
Locus Robotics Implementation
2025
Deployment of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for goods-to-person fulfillment
Implemented at Montgomery, NY facility with 250 tote-handling AGVs supporting 36 workstations, as part of transition from pen-and-paper to automated operations
RightHand Robotics Partnership
February 2024
Multi-year agreement to deploy AI-powered RightPick robotic picking systems in fulfillment centers
The RightPick system is an autonomous item-handling robot powered by advanced hardware, sensor suite, and RightPick AI software. Through collaboration, new features were developed that nearly doubled the range of items that can be handled while reducing interventions by 80%
Warehouse Automation with Manhattan Associates
2024
Deployment of Manhattan Active WM warehouse management platform across fulfillment network
Implemented at 9 business-to-business fulfillment centers with plans to expand to all 36 fulfillment centers by end of 2026, covering 12 million sq-ft of warehouse space
Frequently Asked Questions
Staples uses AI-powered robotic systems from RightHand Robotics for autonomous item picking, Locus Robotics AMRs for goods-to-person fulfillment, and Manhattan Associates' AI-enhanced warehouse management systems to optimize operations and enable next-day delivery to over 98% of the U.S.
The Staples Easy System is an AI-powered digital platform using IBM Watson technology that enables omnichannel ordering through voice, text, mobile app, and physical Easy Button, featuring chatbots, voice recognition, and scan-and-order capabilities.
Staples emphasizes a 'Business is Human' approach, using AI to enhance rather than replace human expertise. Their AI systems handle repetitive tasks while human workers focus on strategic activities, customer relationships, and complex problem-solving.
Staples has achieved significant improvements including nearly doubling the range of items handled by robotic stations, 80% reduction in required interventions, over 40% increase in agent efficiency, and 60% reduction in picking labor requirements.
Yes, Staples continues expanding AI across its network, planning to implement warehouse management systems at all 36 fulfillment centers by 2026 and exploring new applications including humanoid robots and fully automated packaging processes.
In Application
| Application | Vendor | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| RightPick System | RightHand Robotics | Autonomous item-handling and picking in fulfillment centers |
| IBM Watson | IBM | Chatbots, voice recognition, and cognitive customer service capabilities |
| Manhattan Active WM | Manhattan Associates | AI-enhanced warehouse management and execution |
| Locus AMRs | Locus Robotics | Autonomous mobile robots for goods-to-person fulfillment |
Sources
Staples expands next-day delivery with AI-based picking robots
Staples integrates IBM Watson intelligence into mobile ordering flow
Inside Staples Canada's Robot Automation Journey
Staples Launches 'Business is Human' Brand Campaign
Staples Case Study | AI, Live Chat and Messaging
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About AI Tracker
AI Tracker is a research project by Larridin, the AI execution intelligence platform.
Methodology: We analyze earnings calls, press releases, partnership announcements, and product documentation. All assessments are based solely on publicly available information—no private customer data is used.
Maturity Scoring: Each dimension is rated on a 4-tier scale (Nascent → Emerging → Scaling → Leading) based on evidence from public sources. Industry averages are computed as the median across all tracked companies in the sector.