OfficeMax® Incorporateda leader inoffice supplies, technology and services has released the results of the OfficeMax Back-to-School 2011 survey(1), which finds that even Americans without school ties are enthusiastic about back-to-school shopping. For many, back-to-school is synonymous with greatbargainsand an opportunity to shop for themselves - even more than other popular "sale seasons" likeMemorial DayWeekend andFourth of July. While Americans enjoy the self-indulgence of discount shopping, parents focus their energy on outfitting their children with new clothes andschool supplies.

Nearly seven in ten (67%) adults say that back-to-school season means something personal to them. For many (60%), it's the official end of summer, while close to two in five (38%) say it's the best time of year to find great sales and bargains. About a quarter (21%) say the back-to-school season marks the beginning of a new year, while others (18%) admit it makes them feel nostalgic for their own school days.

While getting the kids prepared is usually the focus for parents, Americans nationwide enjoy the bargains personally, too. About two in ten (21%) Americans seek out shopping discounts for themselves during back-to-school season. This is more than those who hunt for deals during theMemorial DayWeekend (12%) andFourth of July(8%) sales. Parents also enjoy treating themselves this time of year with more than one fourth (28%) of parents shopping back-to-school sales for supplies and fashions for their own use.

When shopping for the perfect tools for school for their kids, parents seek out items that are not only easy on their wallets but also show off their child's creativity and personality. Given the economic climate, it's not surprising that close to two thirds (63%) of parents think one of the most important factors in selecting new supplies fromnotebooksto backpacks is that they are inexpensive. Parents are also adamant that the supplies encourage the creativity (42%) and reflect the personality (36%) of their child. Parents and their children also look for school supplies that are offered in attractive colors (19%) and patterns or designs (19%). Fifteen percent seek out the trendiest or most fashionable items.

Despite various factors influencing their shopping habits, parents across the nation thrive during back-to-school season as they get their children prepped for class. About four in ten (41%) parents who claim back-to-school season is personally meaningful believe it signals the ideal time to take their child shopping for clothing, shoes and school supplies for the new academic year. Parents enjoy spending the extra bonding time with their children, and close to half (43%) of moms and dads report it's more exciting to go shopping with their child for new school supplies than new clothes. More dads than moms (50% vs. 38%) get excited about shopping with their child for school supplies over clothing during back-to-school season.

Whether you are a parent transitioning your kids from summer to a new school year or someone who simply enjoys a bargain, back-to-school marks the perfect time of year to find the best shopping deals, spend quality time with your kids and start fresh as a new school year begins.