Abstract: The new store that includes a building that contains merchandise that was purchased by the store on a point-of-origin basis. The merchandise preferably is marketed for sale to consumers in such a way that there is consumer awareness in regard to the origin of the merchandise. The new store presents an alternative to conventional stores that focus mainly on price when other attributes are similar. The store may also include an on-line enterprise that locates locally-made merchandise for potential customers. By using a point-of-origin basis for buying and selling merchandise, the present invention provides consumers with a store where they can quickly locate and purchase merchandise that is made closer to their residence.

Abstract: A method for allowing consumers to purchase merchandise over the Internet on a point of origin basis. The method includes the steps of: (a) providing a database that comprises information pertaining to (i) a semi-super-variety of merchandise and (ii) location of manufacture of the different product types within the semi-super-variety of merchandise; (b) providing a website that is accessible through the Internet by consumers, that allows a consumer to search for merchandise that the consumer may like to purchase on a point-of-origin basis, and that allows the consumer to place an order for merchandise that the consumer has selected for purchase; (c) providing an interaction between the database and the website so that at least location of manufacture information can be provided to the consumer when shopping for merchandise on of the website.

Abstract: The new store that includes a building that contains merchandise that was purchased by the store on a point-of-origin basis. The merchandise preferably is marketed for sale to consumers in such a way that there is consumer awareness in regard to the origin of the merchandise. The new store presents an alternative to conventional stores that focus mainly on price when other attributes are similar. The store may also include an on-line enterprise that locates locally-made merchandise for potential customers. By using a point-of-origin basis for buying and selling merchandise, the present invention provides consumers with a store where they can quickly locate and purchase merchandise that is made closer to their residence.