Borders to launch new Web site, breaks ties with Amazon

ANN ARBOR, Mich. As a way to separate from its well-known online partner, Borders Group Inc. has announced the launch of its new beta version Web site, the company said Wednesday.

While the site is set to officially launch during the first quarter of fiscal year 2008, it is still in early stages of completion. The Web site is said to include videos, Borders Book Club resources, and sample pages from books.

In addition to a new, independent website, Borders also plans to make changes to its retail stores, adding interactive features via kiosks.

Borders is also employing the services of ChoiceStream to provide revenue-driving product recommendations to Borders’ shoppers through its in-store computer search stations and its upcoming online store, driving the discovery of new books, music and movies.

Borders and online retailer Amazon have worked alongside each other for more than five years. Amazon has agreements with several other well-known retailers like Babies “R” Us. In May, Borders announced that it hired AT&T subsidiary Sterling Open Management to manage the new site.