> Z Gallerie Installs Gift RegistryWorks in all Store Locations
December 19, 2002
MarCole, America's leading developer of gift registry software, in conjunction with the Gift Association of America have introduced a powerful, yet easy-to-use, in-store and Internet gift registry solution tailored specifically for independent gift retailers.

MarCole's Gift RegistryWorks in-store solution gives the independent retailer the ability to easily automate their in-store gift registry while maintaining the highest level of personal service. Automation reduces errors, saves time, improves efficiency, provides important management reports and ultimately levels the playing field with department stores. The system is simple to use, easy to maintain, and requires no training.

The Internet solution provides the ability to increase sales and capture new customers by extending gift registries to the Internet. Gift purchasers worldwide can access registries and purchase gifts. While registrants can update, and check the status of their registries from their home or office. Branded individually for each retailer, Gift RegistryWorks for the Independent Retailer is the perfect marriage of personal service and technology.

"Response from independent retailers has been very exciting as this solution allows them to offer the same level of high function gift registry and customer service that the larger retailers provide at a minimal cost", comments Mike Russo, Gift Association of America President.

According to research conducted by Bride's Magazine the bridal registry business is bigger, healthier, and more profitable than ever before. Now, 99% of engaged women register and of those, 93% expect that the majority of their guests will make their purchases from the registry. 42% of today's engaged couples register at specialty stores, and 60% said it was important to manage their registries online.

"Retailers must pay attention to the shift in gift registering and purchasing behavior. Customer demand for fast, efficient, automated gift registry systems prompted the development of Gift RegistryWorks", says Ron Coleman, President and CEO of MarCole. "We have seen dramatic increases in gift registrations and purchases for retailers utilizing our in-store and Internet solutions".

Through a partnership with the Gift Association of America, independent retailers can now see the system and get further information by visiting the GAA booth throughout upcoming gift shows in 2003, beginning with the Atlanta Gift Show, January 11 - 14th. For a complete schedule of events, consult either the GAA or MarCole websites.

MarCole Interactive Systems is a leading developer of innovative retail software systems and has been providing retailers with in-store and on-line shopping solutions for over ten years. The Company has introduced several industry-leading software solutions and has implemented system worldwide for retailers including, Neiman Marcus, Linens 'N Things, Dayton Hudson Department Stores, Boscov's Department Stores, Z Gallerie, Target Australia, Office Depot, Schwarzschild, and many more.

For more information, contact MarCole Interactive Systems at 925.933.9792 x106, send an e-mail message to giftRegistryWorks, or visit the web site at MarCole.com

"The Gift Association of America was founded 50 years ago to provide a forum for retailers and wholesalers in our industry. This latest venture will allow the GAA to meet the needs of its members in a more concise manner. Seminars will be available for members and non-members alike. However, the GAA member inquiry program will be exclusive to current members," Russo said. "Independent retailers have been looking for ways to compete with the major players as they try to get a bigger piece of market share. The MarCole program allows them to expand their current level of customer service and build a stronger, more loyal customer base. Technology is here to stay and MarCole is helping us to provide meaningful programs to retailers in a manner that is cost efficient and user friendly," he added.

For more information, contact the Gift Association of America at (610) 584-3108, send an e-mail message to info@giftassn.com, or visit the web site at www.giftassn.com. Mr. Russo can be contacted at (610) 584-7859 or by e-mail at iainc@snip.net. The Industry Advisors, Inc. web site can be found at www.industryadvisors.com.

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