CNET buys e-commerce software firm
NetVentures operates ShopBuilder, an online store creation system that will be used to encourage direct sales of so-called white box PCs.
CNET said today that it bought NetVentures, an e-commerce software provider, in a stock deal valued at about $12.1 million.
NetVentures owns and operates ShopBuilder, an online store creation system. CNET will issue about 100,000 common shares for 100 percent of privately held NetVentures' stock.
"With the acquisition, CNET will enable resellers of unbranded computer systems, known in the industry as 'white box' PCs, to build online stores," the company said in a statement. The purchase is intended to capitalize on the "direct sales" trend led by Dell Computer and Gateway.
CNET publishes News.com.