COMPANY HISTORY

1989

The first Carlin store, 2000 m2 in size, is launched in Madrid, Spain on a main artery leading out of the city.

1991

Carlin franchises its concept of modern, self service, stores located near offices and backed by attractive catalogs and active telemarketing. The concept is an immediate success and Carlin grows to 35 franchises by 1993.

1994

A separate company, Office 1 Superstores International Inc., is created to expand the concept globally through master franchises under the OFFICE 1 umbrella name.

1995

The first master franchise is launched in Istanbul, Turkey. OFFICE 1 is now the market leader in Turkey with 25 stores covering the country.

1997- 2003

OFFICE 1 expands to twenty one countries focusing on Europe and becomes the largest franchiser of office products internationally.

2004

As the consumer sees no perceived value in higher priced branded merchandise, there is an industry wide shift to source value pricing goods from China. In response, a Sourcing and Logistics Department is created by OFFICE 1 in Shanghai to supply franchised stores worldwide with good value stationery items made in China under the OFFICE 1 trademark.

2005

OFFICE 1 launches a China Export web site for the use of its master franchisees to facilitate the placing of import orders.

2006 - 2007

A Central European headquarters is created in Sofia, Bulgaria to service franchised markets economically and efficiently from a geographically strategic location.
In response to demand from its master franchisees, OFFICE 1 adds a complete line of chairs and other office furniture to its China Export assortment.

2008

OFFICE 1 launches stores in the important markets of Mexico and Peru thereby establishing a base for expansion into Central and South America. By 2010, OFFICE 1 Peru will expand to 22 stores in high traffic locations in Lima.

2009

In the face of a turbulent economic environment, OFFICE 1 expands in the promising Asian emerging markets. OFFICE 1 launches stores in the Philippines and signs a master franchise agreement for Indonesia.

2010

OFFICE 1 creates a unique Ecommerce, virtual franchise concept to capitalize on the growth of internet sales and its reputation and credibility in franchising. Joint Ventures are signed for France (www.office1.fr) and the Czech Republic.

2011

OFFICE 1 launches in new state of the arts web platform and web franchising concept in France www.office1.fr, Germany www.office1shop.de, Slovenia www.office1.si, Peru www.office1.com.pe and soon Ireland and Czech Republic.