E-commerce showcase launched

Consultants PriceWaterhouseCoopers have converted a part of their Swindon offices into a retail e-commerce testbed to explore technology applications - and reinforce the importance of staying focused on customers.

The virtual installation includes a trading area, as well as links to the supply chain, and of course an e-commerce 'shop window'. The key message says PWC retail partner David Thomas is the need to fully integrate systems for effective communication. Success with that will streamline processes, freeing more time to devote to the customer.

Also today, Abbey National announced plans to invest £100M in a series of high tech initiatives, including internet banking and television banking - the latter a joint project with digital TV service provider Open. Both are viewed as substantial growth areas.

E-commerce director Ambrose McGinn stressed, however, that it is not the bank's intention to abandon branch operations as the traditional basis of customer service.

Elliott Chase