Calculation of Net Earnings or Loss Per Common Share (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Net earnings (loss) available to common shareholders	$ 132,861	$ (69,566)	$ 51,661	$ (92,560)
Assumed distribution to participating securities	(13,490)
Assumed undistributed earnings available to common stock	119,371	(69,566)	51,661	(92,560)
Weighted-average shares outstanding	283,631	280,238	281,906	279,438
Basic earnings (loss) per share	$ 0.42	$ (0.25)	$ 0.18	$ (0.33)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Office Depot, Inc.	160,900	(61,916)	100,039	(69,795)
Preferred stock redemption dividend	(22,333)		(22,333)
Net earnings (loss) available for assumed distribution	$ 138,567	$ (61,916)	$ 77,706	$ (69,795)
Weighted-average shares outstanding	283,631	280,238	281,906	279,438
Stock options and restricted stock	5,018	3,480	5,133	4,186
Redeemable preferred stock	45,594	79,371	69,434	77,450
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding	334,243	363,089	356,473	361,074
Diluted earnings (loss) per share	$ 0.41