Media Advisory

WHO:

Bruce Nelson, Chairman and CEO of Office Depot Alana Sweeny, Executive Director of New York State's Council on Children & Families
Peter A. Gallagher, President and CEO of America's Promise

Office Depot, Inc., (NYSE: ODP), the world's largest reseller of office and school supplies, will culminate its back-to-school efforts when the company rings the opening bell at the NYSE - ushering in the school year for New York students.

As part of the ceremony, Office Depot will donate 10,000 backpacks filled with supplies to two organizations whose missions are focused on helping children reach their potential: 5,000 backpacks will be given to N.Y. State's Council on Children & Families, a governmental group charged with coordinating the state's health, education and human services systems; while 5,000 will go to America's Promise, a national non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of children.

The backpacks will be provided to a number of New York communities and low-performing schools for use by disadvantaged children.

Joining Nelson on the NYSE podium will be Alana Sweeny, Executive Director of New York State's Council on Children & Families, Peter A. Gallagher, President and CEO of America's Promise, and children from schools throughout New York City.

In 2003, Office Depot is donating more than 200,000 backpacks to thousands of organizations nationwide. The national in-kind program is valued at more than $5 million.

September 4, 2003

NYSE, 2 Broad Street (Wall Street/Broad Street), New York

Representatives will be available for interviews from 10:00 am - 11:30 am on September 4. To schedule an interview, please contact: Brian Levine at 561-310-3090 (cell), blevine@officedepot.com

Office Depot, Inc.

Office Depot, Inc.

Office Depot provides more office products and services to more customers in more countries than any other company. Incorporated in 1986 and headquartered in Delray Beach, Fla., Office Depot has annual sales of nearly $15 billion, and employs approximately 50,000 associates around the world. Currently, the Company sells to customers directly or through affiliates in 42 countries. Office Depot is a leader in every distribution channel -- from retail stores and contract delivery to catalogs and e-commerce. Office Depot serves a wide range of customers through a dedicated sales force, telephone account managers, direct mail offerings, and multiple web sites.

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