Abstract: A method executable by a computer system for making joint purchases. The preferred embodiment of the present invention enables customers to establish purchase terms, interactively with the server system, which ensure that the correct amount will be raised (i.e. there will be no surplus or shortfall) and that the participants will contribute appropriate amounts to the overall total through the use of various contribution methods. The preferred embodiment uses the mechanism of direct debit pre-authorized payments to ensure there is no value transfer until the purchase terms have been satisfied, and to guarantee access to the promised funds when they required.

Abstract: A retailing method executable by a computer system, includes sending a page to a prospective purchaser in response to a request, the page being associated with a specific product; receiving a purchase proposal from the prospective purchaser for direct purchase of the product at a fixed price, the purchase proposal including identifier information of persons nominated by the prospective and purchase term information selected at least in part by the prospective purchaser, the nominated persons being nominated to contribute to purchase of the product at the fixed price.