If it means establishing on-going relationships, then actively set up those kinds of systems. Your new competitors are already moving down these roads. The Internet isn't just for books and CDs anymore. Now you can shop for homes, cars - even furniture. In essence, we are looking at the next generation of e-commerce, which focuses not on selling product, but on improving the customer experience.
Consumers also have the ability to save selections, as they shop, in a personal virtual showroom.
Collaborating with Manufacturers Internet retailing breaks the world wide-open for manufacturers. It creates the opportunity to generate incremental revenue by selling far beyond traditional markets. And, an improved shopping experience and access to information will expand the pie for the entire industry. Proprietary product from selected manufacturers that can't be found in traditional retail stores. Quick distribution of factory closeouts.