v2.4.0.6

Computation of Earnings Per Common Share (Tables) | 3 Months Ended
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Apr. 28, 2012
Computation of Earnings Per Common Share Disclosure [Abstract] |
Schedule of basic and diluted earnings per share | The computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the first quarter of 2012 and 2011 is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):
| 13 Weeks Ended
| April 28, 2012 |  | April 30, 2011
Numerator: |  |  |  |  |
Net income attributed to Staples, Inc. | $ | 187,059 |  |  | $ | 198,245 |
Denominator: |  |  |  |  |
Weighted-average common shares outstanding | 680,246 |  |  | 706,318 |
Effect of dilutive securities: |  |  |  |  |
Employee stock options, restricted shares and performance shares | 9,191 |  |  | 11,085 |
Weighted-average common shares outstanding assuming dilution | 689,437 |  |  | 717,403 |
Basic earnings per common share | $ | 0.27 |  |  | $ | 0.28 |
Diluted earnings per common share | $ | 0.27 |  |  | $ | 0.28 |

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