EXHIBIT 23.1

             [LETTERHEAD OF COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P. APPEARS HERE]



                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in this registration statement of
Corporate Express, Inc. on Form S-8 (the "Registration Statement") of our report
dated April 18, 1997 on our audits of the consolidated financial statements and
financial statement schedule of Corporate Express, Inc. as of March 1, 1997 and
March 2, 1996, and for the years ended March 1, 1997, March 2, 1996 and February
25, 1995.


/s/ Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.


Denver, Colorado
December 24, 1997