David vs. Goliath

Following the lead of Abercrombie & Fitch, Pacific Sunwear and Starbucks, corporate giant Staples found a new home in Harvard Square this summer.

Its bright red window dressings and prominent location in the Crimson Galleria on JFK Street have elicited concerns about the Square's new corporate feel.

And through its prices, Staples is making clear that it means to stay for a while--perhaps to the detriment of area stationery merchants, such as Bob Slate Stationers. Here are some price comparisons for the two stores:

100 3" x 3" Post-it Notes:

Staples: $0.83

Bob Slate: $1.19

Box of 10 Imation 2HD computer disks:

Staples: $4.97

Bob Slate: $6.59

12 #2 wooden pencils:

Staples: $0.88

Bob Slate: $1.65

5 Bic Mechanical #2 pencils:

Staples: $1.65

Bob Slate: $2.35

Liquid Paper whiteout:

Staples: $1.48

Bob Slate: $1.95

Avery 1" 3-ring binder (economy light use):

Staples: $0.93

Bob Slate: $2.79