Retail department stores, retail on-line department stores, retail store services, retail convenience stores, retail on-line convenience stores and computerized on-line ordering, all featuring general merchandise and general consumer goods; providing an on-line commercial information directory in the nature of product and purchasing information, product and services recommendations, consumer buying habits, complementary products and services and ways in which to utilize such products and services; providing a searchable database in the field of business information available via a global computer network; dissemination of advertising for others and promotional services, namely offering discounts and special merchandise recommendations customized for individuals and organizations via an on-line electronic communications network; promoting the goods and services of on-line vendors by preparing and placing advertisements in electronic mail and specialized web pages accessed through a global computer network; direct mail advertising services; direct electronic mail advertising services