Gateway takes Staples to school

Computer maker Gateway said it has inked a deal to put its notebook computers in more than 875 Staples retail stores just in time for the back-to-school buying season. At the onset, the business equipment supplier is expected to carry two Gateway notebook models, including the Gateway 3550GZ (14-inch wide screen) and the Gateway 7330GZ (desktop replacement) notebooks. Both are available for $1,099.

Since 2004, Gateway has worked with major retailers to augment its direct-sales business and make up for the closure of its own Gateway Country stores. Gateway computers and its eMachines brand of PCs are now available in more than 7,000 stores throughout the United States and Canada including CompUSA, Circuit City, Best Buy and Office Depot.