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Like fellow big-box retailers Wal-Mart and Target, OfficeMax is realizing that the massive stores it planted in the suburbs really don't work in an urban environment. The office supplies source has decided to open smaller-format stores in high-density areas, and has chosen Streeterville as its test market in Chicago. A spokesperson for the Naperville-headquartered chain said the area was selected because it was "easily accessible" with plenty of small businesses that the store can service.
The location, at 550 St. Clair Street, will be sized at 3,900 square feet as opposed to typical OfficeMax outposts, which ring in at more than 20,000 square feet. It's slated to open later this summer.
· OfficeMax to open Chicago's 1st small format store this summer [Chicago Trib]
· Office Max Just Made Backpacks One Penny [Racked]