Eslite Digital Technology Ltd. Chao confirmed that a previously announced distribution joint venture with Acer Digital Service Corp. has been put on the back burner, but stated that early next year, Eslite expects to launch a Web site selling books, CDs and magazines. Eslite is best known for its arts and foreign-language titles, but has few branches outside Taiwan's four biggest cities. The planned site may succeed in attracting consumers unsatisfied with the books offered by their nearest stores. Silkbook is constantly endeavoring to distinguish itself from other online booksellers, said marketing manager Maggie Shih.
Customers can pay by credit card when they place their order, or pay cash on delivery of the books.
Silkbook plans to offer downloadable e-books in the near future, Shih said. Comics are hugely popular with young Taiwanese adults, and the site's blend of entertainment news and special offers is designed to appeal to that segment of the population.