SSDS Inc., and Inter-Act Systems implement new "clipless" coupon program in major grocery stores in the Northeast.

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 4, 1996--SSDS Inc., announced Wednesday their software development and integration of Inter-Act(tm) Systems Coupon Kiosk into ICL's ISS400 point-of-sale system.

The new electronic kiosk system allows retailers to identify the buying habits of their local customers, select savings on the customer's preferred items, and generate targeted electronic "coupons" that are scanned into the point of sale terminal at checkout. The new software add-on will initially be rolled out in grocery stores in the Northeast in early October.

The new system incorporates a free-standing unit with a full touch-screen, similar to an ATM. It communicates with the in-store client server via RF transmission over a wireless LAN, so that kiosks can be easily moved. The client server stores one year of purchase history. Shopper profiles are updated after each transaction, enabling the system to customize offers to individual consumers based on the segment they fall into for a specific category or brand. The appropriate offers and receipts are then presented to the shopper on a series of interactive touch screens.

SSDS has integrated Inter-Act's shopping list software to allow it to convert manufacturer and retailer incentives into "clipless coupons" in the store by electronically storing the incentive offers selected at the kiosk to the shopper's frequent shopper card. The shopper receives one piece of paper listing all the offers selected and the aisle in which they are located. At checkout, the shopper simply presents their card to the cashier. The purchased items are verified, processed and cleared and an "instant discount" is delivered automatically via the store's POS scanning system.

"We selected SSDS as a partner to assist us in developing this system because we recognized that we needed a partner who not only understood how to make the technology component work, but also understood the importance of maintaining strong customer relationships and customer loyalty as we move our customers into more automated processes," said Aretas Stearns, president and COO of Interact Systems. "The new 'clipless coupon' concept has already been very well received by stores and customers alike."

Inter-Act Systems Inc. is a private company headquartered in Norwalk, Conn. The company is the developer of the Inter-Act promotion network, a store-based, interactive electronic marketing network linked to the store's POS system to deliver targeted incentives based on actual purchase histories.

SSDS provides business driven technology solutions to Fortune 1000 companies and government agencies. A leader in the world of information technology, networking and systems integration, SSDS helps companies position their infrastructure and expand their customer loyalty to take advantage of the opportunities in the world of electronic commerce. Founded in 1986, SSDS has enjoyed consistent growth. Headquartered in Englewood, the firm employs 350 persons at 20 offices across the United States. For more information, please contact SSDS' web site at www.ssds.com. -0-

Inter-Act is a registered trademark of Inter-Act Systems Inc.

CONTACT: Radcom Strategic Marketing Inc., Boca Raton 

Marianne Radwan, 407/988-5300

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