ChannelNet Introduces eRetail Advantage

MILL VALLEY, Calif., Jan. 26, 2005 -- ChannelNet, a leading provider of automotive multichannel solutions, announced today the introduction of eRetail Advantage. This new program is designed to help automotive retailers streamline the Web-to-showroom customer experience, qualify leads and motivate purchases to turn Internet researchers into paying customers at the point of sale.

Today, ChannelNet provides comprehensive multichannel Web-based solutions and professional services to more than 5,300 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Land Rover, Jaguar, and Volvo dealers and retailers in 29 countries and 10 languages.

"Automotive consumers have taken to the Internet by the millions, to research their options online before visiting retailers for the test drive and final purchase," said ChannelNet CEO and founder, Paula Tompkins.

Studies show that 89% percent of these shoppers depend on automotive Web sites to help them narrow their selections* and find the right retailer for the ultimate decision.

"With competitive alternatives only mouse clicks away, the quality of the customers' multichannel experience directly influences what and where consumers choose to buy," Tompkins added.

ChannelNet's eRetail Advantage program for automotive retailers includes a complete suite of technology-based products and professional services to turn Internet leads into sales. The company's package of turnkey solutions gives retailers the flexibility to create an Internet presence that supports the individual business goals of the retailer while meeting the requirements of the manufacturer. Non-technical users can manage all of ChannelNet's tools from one central, easy-to-use administrative center. ChannelNet eRetail Advantage includes:

  -- Multichannel Retailer Web Sites
     A customized Web presence that integrates multichannel processes to
     guide consumers from the Web to the retailer's showroom
  -- Premium Tools & Services
     Optional selling tools for interactive advertising, vehicle showcases,
     standardized email addresses, and a range of consulting, training and
     creative services
  -- Multichannel Applications
     Web-based inventory and lead management tools for qualifying prospects
     and enriching the customer's online experience

ChannelNet eRetail Advantage solutions are available directly to automotive retailers or to automotive manufacturers for their own dealers and retailers.

About ChannelNet

Founded in 1985, ChannelNet(R) (formerly The SoftAd Group) is the premier builder of multichannel marketplaces designed to help global automotive manufacturers and their franchise retailers sell more cars, trucks, parts and service. The company has nearly 20 years' experience supporting automotive sales and marketing processes through the use of interactive technologies for many of the leading automotive brands, including Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, BMW N.A., Nissan Europe, General Motors, Cadillac, and Buick. Since 1995, ChannelNet has acquired an install base using its technology and services of more than 5,300 automotive retailers worldwide. The privately-held company is based outside San Francisco in Mill Valley, California, with offices in Detroit, Michigan. For more information about ChannelNet and its solutions, visit www.channelnet.com.

*J.D. Powers and Associates