Computer Express Pioneers On-Line Sales, Projects $200 Million in Sales by 1995

Ten years ago, Philip and Lesley Schier founded Computer Express, an on-line mail order company that has since grown into a leading player in the on-line sales market. With a solid reputation for providing value to home computer users, Computer Express has established itself as a trusted name in the industry. As of 1995, the company boasts 200,000 satisfied customers and an impressive 4,000 plus products available on various commercial on-line services and the Internet. With plans to expand into interactive television and catalog merchandising, Computer Express is poised to become the world's largest alternative channel for computer products.

Key Takeaways:

• Computer Express was founded in 1985 on the CompuServe Electronic Mall, and has since expanded to other on-line services, including Prodigy, America Online, and the Internet.
• The company has 200,000 satisfied customers and 4,000 plus products available on-line.
• Computer Express has established partnerships with major companies, including AT&T's PersonaLink, Apple's e-World, and Microsoft Network.
• The company has developed customized on-line programs for its customers, including Prodigy Exclusive, the Modem Store, and the Upgrade Store.
• Computer Express has projected $200 million in sales by 1995, with a growing market share in the home office and consumer applications segments.
• The company promotes products through various marketing services, including telemarketing, print advertising, and product literature.
• Computer Express has a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, with a focus on providing excellent service and support to its customers.

Statistics:

• 200,000: Number of satisfied customers
• 4,000 plus: Number of products available on-line
• 1995: Year in which Computer Express projects $200 million in sales
• $20 billion: Market size of the home office computer market in 1991
• 54%: Percentage of personal computer sales accounted for by the home office market
• 15 million: Number of households with computers in 1995, projected to grow to 23 million by the end of the year
• $1,700: Average amount invested in hardware by households with computers
• 6.5 million: Number of electronic and magazine audience of Computer Express
• 50 million: Number of potential audience on the Internet

Sources:

• Business Wire, February 7, 1995
• Interview with Philip Schier, President of Computer Express
• Various on-line services and websites, including CompuServe, Prodigy, America Online, and the Internet.