Article: Merchants like Starbucks, Home Depot, 7-Eleven range far beyond their staples.

By Becky Yerak, Chicago Tribune Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News

Oct. 29--Ray Charles' "Genius Loves Company" is a hot seller -- at your local Starbucks, that is.

In fact, the ubiquitous coffee merchant says it has sold more of the late singer's final CD than any music retailer, despite charging a steep $15.99.

The Seattle-based coffeehouse giant isn't alone in selling products that otherwise seem out of place.

This holiday, you'll be able to find a Cuisinart fondue set with the piles of wallboard stacked at Home Depot stores. 7-Eleven Inc. may be known for its Big Gulp, but now you can also get a $159.99 prepaid camera phone ...

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