KnightRidder.com signed a deal to
integrate BuyerWeb’s patent-pending private-label
“request-for-proposal” technology into its RealCities network of regional hubs.
BuyerWeb said its application is designed to help alleviate the frustration
many consumers encounter when looking for harder-to-find goods and services.
A potential buyer simply specifies the item or service he or she wants by
filling out an online request form. Within 48 hours the person receives
offers with information and pricing from qualified sellers. Qualified sellers
then pay a small fee to reply to the buyer with information and offers.
KnightRidder.com will begin implementing the free service for its Real Cities
visitors in March. Financial arrangements between the companies were not
disclosed.
“We view BuyerWeb as a perfect way to provide a useful and time-saving
service to our consumers while helping our local advertisers garner more
business online,” said Dan Finnigan, president of KnightRidder.com.
BuyerWeb product and service include auto parts and accessories, wines,
cigars, antiques
and collectibles and sports memorabilia, among others, as well as category
forms for personal and professional services, such as nursing care and
architects.
The BuyerWeb Network connects all of its partner sites, enabling buyers from
one partner to get quotes from businesses associated with others. Other
partners include Prodigy Internet, Edmunds.com, carclub.com and boxLot.com.
