TRADEMARK-PROTECTION UPGRADE DEBUTS

Trademark and copyright research firm Thomson & Thomson has launched the newest version of its online trademark research software. SAEGIS 6.0 provides users with access to global trademark information required for ongoing brand and trademark monitoring, screening and protection. Expanded features include enhanced querying detail, an alphabetical browse index, and improved viewing and reporting capabilities. According to a company statement, SAEGIS 6.0 will enable professionals to save time and reduce the risk of litigation, while protecting the integrity of their brands.

ROYAL BANK LAUNCHES ONLINE SHOPPING DIRECTORY

In an attempt to encourage online shoppers to make their purchases from Canadian retailers, the Royal Bank recently launched a directory of online merchants. One of Canada’s largest online directories, the site boasts access to more than 250 Canadian merchant sites, and offers assurances to consumers that credit card transactions are being processed through Royal Bank. According to the bank, roughly 41,000 consumers visit royalbank.com each day. The shopping directory at www.royalbank.com/cards/shopping offers links to Canadian e-tailers offering flowers, gifts and books, electronics, travel and clothing, and features a donation section with links to a dozen Canadian non-profit organizations. Retailers interested in participating in the directory should visit the site.

E-MAIL MARKETING SOLUTION UNVEILED

For the first time, advertisers will be able to insert targeted ads dynamically into text and HTML e-mail messages, according to DoubleClick, which recently unveiled its suite of e-mail products, called DARTmail. The product is designed to provide advertisers, as well as publishers, with consent-based e-mail marketing solutions. DARTmail for Advertisers – slated for launch the second quarter of 2000 – offers a campaign management solution for direct e-mail marketing, allowing advertisers to deliver personalized marketing communications and help build long-term customer relationships. DARTmail for Publishers, which will launch the first quarter of 2000, will enable publishers to manage their e-mail ad inventory, insert targeted ads into e-mail newsletters and deliver customized editorial content.

E-TAILERS PULL TRAFFIC THROUGH PROMOTIONS

Online merchants looking to increase traffic to their site and build stronger customer relationships, have a new tool. Chicago-based R.R. Donnelley Online Services and iQ.COM recently partnered to help e-tailers create, target and track online sales promotions and customer loyalty programs. The various, customizable promotions platforms, which include ‘instant savings’ and ‘lead generation,’ are designed to keep surfers interested in a site and reward them for their loyalty to a particular company.