iCongo releases its new Virtual Marketer (VM) module for its E-Commerce online systems and as a supplement to the company's E-marketing systems. Retailers using VM can host virtual events for conducting product demonstrations, seminars, training sessions and two way communications within their existing customer-facing online environments.

Available under a pay-as-you-go Software as a Service (SaaS) pricing model, Virtual Marketer can be inserted as needed in any E-commerce B2C or B2B site. VM presentations can be made available for any length of time, from one day to a week or longer - even indefinitely. Viewers can experience a presentation live or on-demand, giving sponsors a host of options for imparting information, encouraging a sale, or generating leads.

Live and recorded video is supported in VM as well as collateral download libraries containing brochures, images, charts and audio files. During a session, participants and /or customers can be allowed to initiate two-way private or public online conversations with sales or training support specialists via the built-in chatline.

VM also provides the ability to purchase products within the same iCongo-powered online environment. For example after viewing a retailer's presentation on BBQ grills with demonstrations from multiple manufacturers, customers can ask questions, make comparisons and immediately click on a specific product brand to make a purchase.
 

Godiva Chocolatier debuts the new Godiva.com which offers an expanded assortment of chocolate products and introduces a new selection of baked goods such as brownies and cupcakes. Godiva launched the newly designed site in conjunction with its e-commerce partner, Fry, a wholly owned subsidiary of MICROS Systems.

The redesigned site includes an expanded navigation that highlights the breadth of available products. Product pages have been enhanced to show more chocolate images, greater product detail, and visibility into the chocolate pieces inside each box.

The 'Share' feature on every page allows customers to forward Godiva favorites to friends, family, and associates through Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace, or via e-mail. All of these enhancements are supported by a new, streamlined checkout process that allows customers to make their purchases quickly and easily.

"Fry has been part of our e-commerce team for 15 years," said Kim Land, Vice President Godiva Direct, Godiva Chocolatier. "Its understanding of our brand and creative direction is invaluable and we are excited to offer our customers another outstanding online experience. The new Godiva.com looks incredible and we are thrilled."

 

Nine West Debuts Vintage Collection; Signs Up-and-Coming Vocalist

Nine West is staying true to classic American styles with its recent launch of Nine West Vintage America Collection, a new casual line inspired by timeless fashions. Nine West Vintage America Collection has aligned with Soles4Souls, a charity that raises awareness and gives the gift of new and used shoes to people worldwide. Miranda Lee Richards, an up-and-coming contemporary folk singer, will spearhead the Vintage America Voices Campaign, which will include  a music sweepstakes hosted on Facebook.com.