Circuit City Hits The Web Merchandising Circuit

Circuit City Stores Inc. is getting into the e-commerce game. A new Web store launched July 20 offers a wide selection of consumer electronics, personal computers and appliances, and the distinct combination and convenience of cyber-shopping and traditional retailing.
     The new Circuit City Web site allows consumers to access extensive product information, conduct side-by-side price and feature comparisons, and purchase products on line at competitive prices. And unlike other Web retailers, Circuit City gives customers the option to either pick up their purchases from a convenient store location or have their products shipped directly to their home. In addition, all the products purchased on the Web site can be exchanged, returned or repaired at any Circuit City Superstore.
     Circuit City's E-Superstore is initially offering for sale approximately 800 brand-name products; the company expects to sharply expand the number of products by the 1999 holiday season. In addition, the E-Superstore initially will provide information on approximately 1,100 products available at all Circuit City Superstores; that number also will expand significantly by Christmas.
     The Circuit City E-Superstore product selection includes: televisions; camcorders; digital cameras; DVD players; VCRs; TV/VCR combination units; stereo receivers; CD players; tape decks; speakers; mini-systems; portable CD and tape players; boomboxes; phones and cordless phones; microwaves; vacuums; answering machines; fax machines; desktop and laptop personal computers; printers; scanners; monitors; and a limited assortment of computer add-ons and accessories.
     Circuit City expects to expand the product offerings to include refrigerators, washer/dryers and satellite television systems. The retailer also is developing additional features for the E-Superstore, including brand- name personal computer build-to-order options and home delivery and set-up of larger consumer electronics and major appliances.