SoftKey starts Virtual Store

SoftKey International is open for business on the Internet. The software developer and publisher just launched the SoftKey Virtual Store (http://store.softkey.com). The Web site showcases more than 70 titles from SoftKey, as well as The Learning Company, MECC and Compton’s Home Library, which SoftKey International represents. Titles are sorted into categories of education, languages, lifestyle, productivity and reference.

Unlike traditional software stores, the Virtual Store allows customers to shop at any time of the day and every day of the week. The site provides information on product features, awards, target audiences, prices and platforms, as well as promotions, special offers and new releases. Customers can even try some titles on-line. If they like what they see, they can order over the Internet using a credit card, call the toll-free number listed or visit the nearest retail outlet. Purchases can be returned within 60 days for a full refund.

Santa g’es cyber

This holiday season, kids in Canada will have a new way to choose items for their Christmas wish lists. On November 16, Internet marketing firm Valu-net International is launching Santa’s Cyberland (www.santascyberland.com) in conjunction with shopping centers across the country. The Web site will feature a list of products available in specific stores, as well as information on contests, promos and other activities at the malls. Kids will be able to write to Santa and receive updates on his Christmas preparations, a service that will operate year-round. Valu-net International, which has teamed up with shopping center consulting and promotions agency National Shopping Centre Promotions for this effort, aims to bring 50 malls on board this year. For next year, the two companies are looking to sign on shopping centers in the U.S.