These companies distribute general office supplies, technology products, office furniture, paper and forms. Paper, paper forms and envelopes account for a third of the industry revenue creating some overlap with paper and packaging distributors. Technology products include computers, software and phones which overlaps with some high tech distributors. The industry is dominated by big retail chains like Office Depot and Office Max that sell directly to the consumer and by large wholesales like United Stationers. Sub-segments of this industry include Office Equipment distribution which includes leasing and servicing of office copiers and Office Furniture distribution which involves the sales and installation of office furniture systems.

These distributors must be highly automated for fast execution of orders as next day delivery for any item is expected by customers. Distribution networks and logistics are critical to the efficient fulfillment and delivery of orders.