Kmart Corp. launched a new online shopping Web site called Family
and Fitness, with Kathy Ireland as its executive editor.
The Web site can be accessed through www.Kmart.com or directly at
www.familyandfitness.com. Family
and Fitness is the first in a series of online shopping sites that Kmart will
develop as part of a comprehensive e-commerce strategy.
Designed jointly by Kmart and Agency.com, the secure site is powered by
IBM’s Net.commerce merchant engine. Billings were not disclosed.
In expanding Kmart’s presence on the Internet, the retailing giant said it
aims to create a virtual city of neighborhoods at kmart.com. Each virtual neighborhood
will target a particular customer segment by offering information, interaction
and unique products.
“Our goal is to gradually build an online shopping destination that creates a
real sense of value and community at kmart.com,” said Marisha Geraghty, Kmart
divisional vice president of Internet commerce. “We want to create long-
lasting interactive relationships with both new and existing Kmart customers
by offering a unique combination of product, customized service and
convenience.”
“With a retailing powerhouse like Kmart rolling out its e-commerce strategy,
the Web gains new validity as a retail distribution channel,” said Chan Suh,
CEO of Agency.com. “Kmart.com will initiate a whole new
segment of consumers to the benefits of shopping online.”
The Family and Fitness venue was designed for young moms who have little time
to attend to their own health and well-being. As executive editor, Kathy
Ireland, fashion designer and spokesperson for many of Kmart’s programs, will
provide her views on family and fitness through daily greetings, workout
routines and chat sessions, the firm stated.
Customers can purchase vitamins, herbs and homeopathic products online. In
subsequent phases, the site will offer a comprehensive range of health, beauty
and fitness products
and information.
product .”
