AOL pairs with photo retailer for online snapshots
The Internet giant announces a marketing alliance with photo chain store Ritz Camera and Web site network Phobo.com.
The five-year partnership makes Ritzcamera.com, Boatersworld.com and other Phobo sites available via AOL sites. In exchange, Ritz Camera and Phobo distribution channels will promote AOL products and services.
Ritz Camera will also partner on AOL's "You've got pictures," which will allow members to drop off film at Ritz locations and have their pictures delivered to their AOL account.
Visitors to AOL, Netscape Netcenter and Spinner will also have access to photo, video and digital products from Ritzcamera online, which will gain placement in AOL's Shop@ online shopping destinations.
AOL will become the exclusive online service offered in Ritz stores and on its Ritzcamera site. The camera store will also distribute free AOL CD-ROMs at the more than 1,000 Ritz Camera locations in the United States. The companies will work to provide registration for AOL both online and at point-of-sale, and AOL will be promoted in Ritz and Phobo print and broadcast advertising.
In addition, Boatersworld.com and Outerbanksoutfitters.com, Phobo's other sites, will be added to AOL's Shop@, featuring equipment and clothing for boating, fishing and marine activities. The sites will also offer AOL as their exclusive online service.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.