I still remember the first time I heard the name Tom Stenberg. I was standing in line at a small office supply store, trying to print out some business flyers, when the guy next to me mentioned that Stenberg was the brains behind the office supply revolution in Europe. I had no idea at the time just how much of an impact he had on something as seemingly simple as pens, paper, and printer ink. But once I started digging, I realized his story wasn’t just about selling office supplies—it was about vision, risk-taking, and persistence.
The more I learned, the more I saw how Stenberg’s journey could inspire anyone chasing an entrepreneurial dream. And honestly, a few of his lessons have shaped how I approach my own career.
Who Was Tom Stenberg?
Tom Stenberg was a Finnish-born entrepreneur best known as the co-founder of Staples Europe, and later as the man behind Clas Ohlson’s expansion across the region. He had this incredible knack for seeing opportunities where most people just saw paper and staples.
Born in 1954, Stenberg’s early years weren’t filled with glamour or big business connections. Instead, he built his reputation by understanding customers’ real needs and creating practical solutions. By the 1980s, he had already become a driving force in turning the office supply market into a global business.
And it wasn’t just about selling cheaper products—it was about making office life easier for people like you and me.
What Made Him Stand Out
Plenty of people start businesses, but very few change the way an industry works. Tom Stenberg did exactly that. Here are a few qualities that made him different:
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Practical Vision – He didn’t chase flashy ideas. He focused on what people needed daily—things like paper, ink, and binders—and found smarter ways to deliver them.
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Customer-Centered Approach – He knew people wanted convenience. That’s why his stores were designed to be straightforward, affordable, and accessible.
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Willingness to Take Risks – Expanding into new regions wasn’t easy. He was bold enough to step into markets where office supply chains barely existed.
I find this especially inspiring because too often we think innovation has to be complicated. Stenberg proved that even simple things, when executed well, can make a massive difference.
Personal Takeaway: The Beauty of “Boring” Businesses
One of my favorite lessons from Tom Stenberg is that you don’t need to create the next social media app or high-tech gadget to succeed. Sometimes, the so-called “boring” businesses—like selling office supplies—hold the greatest opportunities.
A few years ago, when I was brainstorming side hustles, I caught myself dismissing ideas that seemed too small or unglamorous. But after learning about Stenberg, I started to see things differently. If he could build an empire out of pens and paper, maybe I shouldn’t underestimate everyday problems that need solving.
The Growth of Staples Europe
Tom Stenberg didn’t just co-found Staples Europe—he grew it into a powerhouse. At its peak, the company was serving millions of businesses across multiple countries.
His Strategy Included:
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Local Adaptation – Instead of copying the American model, he adapted the concept to fit European markets.
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Partnerships – Stenberg believed in collaboration, and that made expansion smoother.
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Efficiency – His stores weren’t just about selling; they were about making the customer’s life easier.
When I compare this to my own projects, I realize how important it is to adapt ideas instead of just copying what works elsewhere. Context matters.
What Entrepreneurs Can Learn from Tom Stenberg
If I had to boil down his legacy into lessons for today’s entrepreneurs, here’s what I’d highlight:
1. Solve Simple Problems First
Don’t overcomplicate things. Look at the basic needs around you. Stenberg turned everyday office frustrations into a thriving business model.
2. Don’t Fear Expansion
Too many entrepreneurs hesitate to scale. Stenberg embraced growth, even across borders, and that’s what made him stand out.
3. Stay Grounded
Despite his success, he didn’t turn Staples into something confusing or over-designed. It was practical, useful, and reliable.
A Personal Tip I’ve Applied
Inspired by Tom Stenberg’s story, I started approaching my freelance work differently. Instead of chasing every new tool or trend, I asked myself: “What’s the simplest way to solve my client’s biggest headache?”
That small shift made my work not only more effective but also more enjoyable. Clients didn’t care about flashy extras—they cared about results.
The Human Side of Tom Stenberg
It’s easy to put successful entrepreneurs on a pedestal, but Tom Stenberg was also known for being approachable and down-to-earth. Colleagues often described him as a leader who listened.
That resonates with me deeply because I’ve seen firsthand how much better teamwork flows when leaders listen rather than just dictate. It’s a reminder that kindness and humility can go hand-in-hand with business growth.
Why Tom Stenberg Still Matters Today
Even though Tom Stenberg passed away in 2019, his ideas continue to influence businesses around the world. In today’s fast-paced digital economy, his story reminds us that:
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Simplicity sells.
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Convenience builds loyalty.
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Vision doesn’t have to be flashy to change lives.
Whenever I find myself overthinking a project, I think of Stenberg. He inspires me to bring things back to basics and focus on what truly matters.
Final Thoughts
Tom Stenberg may not be a household name like Steve Jobs or Elon Musk, but his impact is undeniable. He showed us that everyday products could build extraordinary businesses. And more importantly, he proved that success comes from understanding people, solving their problems, and staying grounded in your vision.
If you’re building something right now, big or small, I’d encourage you to take a page out of Stenberg’s playbook. Start simple, stay focused, and never underestimate the power of solving everyday problems.
