theglobe Spins E-Tail Solutions With INTERSHOP

Online community site theglobe.com and electronic commerce provider INTERSHOP Communications have joined forces to target the small- to medium-sized business market with new e-commerce solutions.

Under the agreement, theglobe said it will debut ‘globeStores’ this week, a service that offers interactive tools to merchants looking to build virtual Web stores and sell products to the community’s 6 million monthly users.

The four globeStore models–basicStore, basicStores Plus, advancedStore, and superStore–are interactive shop solutions that range from a small, simple site to a full-range business with real-time credit card transaction capabilities.

INTERSHOP will outfit globeStores with full-service turnkey solutions that enable merchants to handle order processing, perform statistical analysis of store traffic, deliver targeted promotions, and conduct inventory management, accounting procedures, and market research.

Pricing for the stores includes a waiver of set-up fees and first month
costs for members choosing the Basic model. After the introductory month store owners will be charged $30 a month or more.
First-come merchants will also be provided with advertising capabilities,
theglobe said. In addition, globeStore retailers can also get a
personalized address from Register.com. The address will be site-linked or redirected back to the globeStore address.

“INTERSHOP’s technology provides globeStores with scalable and flexible
online shopping solutions, and advanced features that allow merchants to
target their customer base,” said Stephan Paternot, co-CEO, theglobe.com.
“globeStores offer businesses an e-commerce solution regardless of size or
industry, giving them an incredible edge in the marketplace.”

Last week theglobe.com signed an advertising agreement with NetMarket, a membership-based shopping
site, under which theglobe.com will promote NetMarket to members of its site through special links,
e-mail opt-in opportunities, banners, buttons and advertisements.

NetMarket retails products and services including consumer electronics, computer hardware and software, books, compact discs and
groceries.