Internet retailer and delivery service Webvan Group Inc.,
in a
move to make its retail site more family focused, added
areas for people shopping for babies and kids, or the parents of same.
At the new “Baby Shop,” consumers can find products ranging from organic baby
foods, including Earth’s Best and Gerber Tender Harvest, to selection of
infant products and diapers.
The “Kids’ Store” is a one-stop shop that features lunchbox favorites,
healthy snacks, entertaining books and videos, clothing and games.
“Parents’ Corner” is a shopping solution and information resource for moms
and dads. From diapering and baby feeding tips to shopping for school
supplies and packing the perfect lunch, Parents’ Corner serves as a resource
to streamline day-to-day
tasks and “to do” lists.
Content includes information from pediatricians and
child-care
specialists designed to help educate parents in areas such as child rearing,
pregnancy, healthy living and childbirth.
“Webvan is freeing consumers from the 20th-century confines of the
brick-and-mortar stores,” said George T. Shaheen, president and chief executive officer of
Webvan. “We are putting consumers in control, offering them a total shopping
experience that mirrors their thought processes ”
Webvan has been struggling in the market to say the least, and its stock is
currently trading in the $4 range, with a 52-week high of $34. Nevertheless,
Salomon Smith Barney recently launched coverage of the stock with a “neutral”
rating but flagged as a “speculative'” risk.
Earlier this month, Webvan said
it had received government approval to proceed with its acquisition of
HomeGrocer.com for $1.2 billion in stock. The deal awaits shareholder
approval from both companies.
Webvan said its plans include introduction of even more shopping categories,
including a beauty and spa category that will include products such as Burt’s
Bees all-natural body, facial and bath items, Le Petit Marseillais bath
products from France and Zia skincare products. Current shopping categories
include groceries, pet supplies, books, a florist and electronics, among
others.
Webvan promises its customers “can have everything from electronics to
produce to beauty supplies delivered to their door in the 30-minute window of
their choice” in the company’s own vans. It currently serves San Francisco,
Atlanta, Chicago and the Sacramento, CA area.
And Baby Makes Three
