No Matter How You Write, There Is a Pen Style and Fit to Suit Every Need
Grand & Toy unveils exclusive new brand in Canada   |  November 7, 2007  

Toronto, ON. May 15, 2007 – Who said the pen is dead? Despite the fact that Canadians are quickly acquiring more technologically advanced products, the hardworking pen is still a must-have tool. More than 34 million pens were sold last year by leading Canadian office supply company Grand & Toy, and there are a growing number of online sites dedicated to fans of pen and paper. Recognizing that interest, Grand & Toy is launching a new brand of writing instruments called TŪL (pronounced “tool”), and will be the exclusive office products supplier of this brand in Canada. Developed and designed for OfficeMax, Grand & Toy’s parent company, the TŪL line boasts a look of refined elegance while providing superior writing precision.

The TŪL line was created in partnership with Gravity Tank, a Chicago-based design firm known for its work with Motorola, Unilever and Samsung. "Ninety-eight percent of the public may never own a $30 pen. But through innovative design, TŪL will incorporate the feeling of an elite writing instrument in a pen costing as little as $3," explains designer Mike Winnick of Gravity Tank. "TŪL achieves this magic by offering metal accents, superior inks, brass tips and unique barrel designs that distinguish TŪL from the look and feel of any other mass-market pen."

As with any fashion accessory, TŪL was designed to illustrate the unique qualities of each user by displaying his or her handwriting with utmost style. Those looking for a fun, interactive writing experience can visit www.grandandtoy.com/tul and click on Handwriting Analysis. A virtual “diagnosis” by Graphologist Dr. Gerard Ackerman will explain what one’s own handwriting style reveals about one’s personality.

“We expect TŪL to become one of those pens that your colleagues and friends will love to ‘borrow’ from you,” says Vinesh Mistry, Marketing Director, Office Supplies, Grand & Toy. “We recognize that there is a market for a product for the style-conscious business person looking to convey an image of class and elegance, and we have responded by exclusively offering the TŪL line in Canada.”

Linking the pen with Europeans’ meticulous attention to detail in both design and performance, Grand & Toy is offering Canadians the opportunity to win an ultimate racing package for a major racing event in Toronto this summer. Entrants can visit www.grandandtoy.com/tul to enter. The contest closes June 15, 2007.

The TŪL pen series includes Gel Retractable Pens in 4-packs for $8.99 CDN, Rollerball Pens in 4-packs for $11.99 CDN, Ballpoint Retractable Pens in 12-packs for $16.99 CDN and Ballpoint Stick Pens in 12-packs for $14.99 CDN. The TŪL line-up also includes full-featured Dry Erase markers in 4-packs for $12.99 CDN and 12-packs for $21.99 CDN. The complete TŪL line-up can be purchased at any Grand & Toy retail location, or online at www.grandandtoy.com.

About Grand & Toy
Founded in 1882, Grand & Toy has evolved from Canada’s leading supplier of office products to the nation’s number one source for complete business solutions. From office supplies, interiors, technology and business imaging, to a host of essential services, Grand & Toy is enhancing office performance by providing the tools and solutions needed to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced marketplace. Offering more than 10,000 products available through an award-winning web site, detailed catalogue and over 40 retail locations across Canada, Grand & Toy offers the resources, experience and insight to help Canadian businesses realize their full potential. For more information visit www.grandandtoy.com.

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For more information or to request product images, please contact:

Diane Medeiros
APEX Public Relations
416-924-4442, ext. 234 
dmedeiros@apexpr.com

Tanya Elliott-Briden
APEX Public Relations
416-924-4442, ext. 238 
telliott-briden@apexpr.com