The visualization technology enables customers to click on a piece of furniture, search the Web site for a fabric choice, and instantly view an image of the upholstered item. .
"The combination of Scene 7's online expertise and Krause's vast showroom presence will give customers the tools to shop whenever and however they want," states Herb Friedman, president of Krause's Furniture. "With the electronic catalog and associated design tools, a customer can experiment with countless styles, colors, patterns and fabrics in customizing the furniture, accessories and layout of an entire room. The platform will ultimately enable customers to order one to 100,000 pieces at a time, and to receive real-time order status and delivery information." .
The alliance adds value to Krause's existing retail showrooms and allows the retailer to penetrate new markets; similarly, it provides Scene 7 with storefront visibility. Scene 7 is also working with Victoria's Secret to provide a visibility platform so customers can experiment with fabric selection on the Victoria's Secret Web site. .
Despite the recent layoffs of 60 workers, primarily from its IT department, and the ensuing speculation over its future, Kozmo.com is also strengthening its position by integrating its online presence with physical realities. The predominantly pure-play retailer will issue a catalog to more than 400,000 consumers and offer streetfront sales to New York City shoppers. .
"By introducing a comprehensive catalog that mirrors our Web site, we'll broaden our reach and encourage more orders over the Internet as well as through toll-free calls," explains Stephanie Cohen Glass, director of communications of Kozmo. .
Kozmo currently serves nine major metropolitan areas with its one-hour delivery of on-line retail purchases. In New York City, the retailer's distribution facilities double as shopping outlets, with terminals located in front of the store so customers can walk in, place an "on-line" order for instant fulfillment inside the store or for delivery within the hour to their destination of choice.