CD-ROMs featuring a special edition of the AOL service, with co-branded features and packaging, are now available at more than 900 Target stores nationwide.
The special edition CD-ROMs provide Target guests the ability to easily sign-up for a co-branded version of the AOL service, which offers members 500 hours free in a month. AOL members who subscribe to the service through Target are then entitled to a 10 percent discount for up to one year on merchandise purchased at target.com. The co-branded CD-ROMs are available through in-store kiosks at the front of all Target stores. Guests can also request a CD-ROM online at target.com and through a Target toll-free number (800-440-0680).
The co-branded AOL service also offers direct links to target.com. Other unique features include a customized tool bar and a pre-populated favorites folder linking to target.com and other favorite sites.
In addition, target.com is now available in the Shop@AOL online shopping destinations and other areas across AOL, AOL.COM, Compuserve, Netscape Netcenter, and AOL Digital City, providing easy and convenient access to Target’s exciting merchandise, gift registries and other special services for guests. AOL Keyword: Target, recently launched, is also driving traffic to target.com.
This rollout marks the beginning of the companies’ multi-year strategic alliance announced in June 2000, under which the companies will join to promote a range of distinctive products and services to make the online experience more convenient for consumers and Target guests.
Jerry Storch, president of Target Financial Services and New Businesses, said: These are just the first of many exciting co-branding initiatives Target and AOL will be rolling out through this alliance. We are delighted to begin offering AOL products and services to our guests, while bringing our great selection of merchandise to the millions of users of AOL’s brands. Together, Target and AOL will continue to create compelling new offers for consumers, as we at Target continue to integrate the Internet into every aspect of our business.
Barry Schuler, president of AOL Interactive Services, said: Already, we’ve seen a great response to the target.com promotions across Shop@AOL, and by offering AOL software in Target stores, we can introduce millions of Target’s loyal guests to all the benefits that AOL and the Internet have to offer. These new online and offline promotions are focused squarely on creating more value for our customers, and we will continue to leverage the potential of our powerful brands to make the online experience more fun, innovative and convenient for our consumers.
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The Target/AOL alliance is now being promoted extensively through a wide variety of marketing channels. These include visibility in all Target marketing channels, including the company’s Sunday circular, broadcast and print advertising, and other marketing programs; and promotion of Target across several AOL brands.
