v2.4.0.6
Computation of Earnings Per Common Share (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Apr. 28, 2012
Apr. 30, 2011
Numerator:    
Net income attributed to Staples, Inc. $ 187,059 $ 198,245
Denominator:    
Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares) 680,246,000 706,318,000
Effect of dilutive securities:    
Employee stock options, Restricted Shares and performance shares (in shares) 9,191,000 11,085,000
Weighted-average common shares outstanding assuming dilution (in shares) 689,437,000 717,403,000
Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share) $ 0.27 $ 0.28
Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share) $ 0.27 $ 0.28
Options to purchase shares excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share (in shares) 39,800,000 20,600,000