Death Comes to the Internet

The Neptune Society, one of the nation's largest cremation companies, launched an e-commerce Web site to market its services "pre-need," as they say in the industry.

The Neptune Society said it has provided "an easier, non-intimidating, low-pressure atmosphere" on its site as an alternative to the traditionally sales-focused environment associated with the industry.

The Neptune Society's Pre-Need Program enables an individual to legally contract with the company at a guaranteed fixed-price for a pre-arranged and pre-funded cremation service, as well as obtain at-need service information online.

"In keeping with Neptune Society's watchwords of providing simplicity, dignity and an economical alternative to individuals, the first phase launch of the Web site provides yet another venue for the company to provide alternatives to the consumer," said Marco Markin, president of the company.

"We are establishing ourselves now because five to ten years down the road, the boomers may need our services. Boomers are planners and Net surfers, so this is a logical move for us," said Gary Loffredo, executive vice president of the company.

The Neptune Society is the only publicly traded company dealing solely in cremation services. It has locations in California, Florida and New York.