Staples puts media account up for grabs.(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Included)

FRAMINGHAM--Staples Inc. is putting its relationship with Natick-based media planning and buying company Pro Media Inc. under the microscope.

In a move widely viewed as a quest for cost-cutting options, the Framingham-based office supply store company has asked "a pre-selected group of agencies" from across the country to submit proposals for the account. Pro Media was invited to defend its contract, said Marci Grebstein, vice president of media and marketing communications at Staples.

"Cost is always one factor," Grebstein said. "It's a matter of making sure we have the right resources in place for Staples' future growth."

Grebstein declined to name the other agencies in the review or reveal how many are competing for the business. Staples expects to finish the review by the end of the year. …