INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 333-43804 of New England Business Service, Inc. on Form S-8 of our report dated June 8, 2001, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 11-K of the 401(k) Plan for Employees of New England Business Service, Inc. for the period ended December 31, 2000. /s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP Boston, Massachusetts June 27, 2001