ShopLocal goes live. The company behind this is owned by Gannett, Knight Ridder, and Tribune – the major newspaper companies. The whole things smells driven by corporate and merchant interests, as opposed to user intent. (Check the “About” page as to why – notice how they say they deliver “More Shoppers. More Often.” When I click the “About” button I prefer not to be told that I’m viewed as a fungible commodity.) I’d put my money on Yahoo and Google, if I were a betting man.
Thanks, Gary.
This site sucks. You are right on the money about it not being user driven. Part of it could be because they just went live and they’re a little light on content, but I just see no reason to use this site.
You’re going to be very surprised when details around a recently signed deal related to this service (yes, I’m being vague out of necessity) is announced.
No, this site isn’t the end all be all of local shopping search, but there’s more here than meets the eye…