Abstract: In one embodiment, a novel “fair trade receipt” may be generated or otherwise supported for products and services found in commerce, such as in e-commerce or conventional in-person commerce. The fair trade receipt may be generated based upon supply-chain disclosures by sellers of the products/services related to fair trade principles. For instance, these disclosures may concern, among other things, the explicit or general nature of the material used, origin of the material, methods of collection, manufacturing methods and techniques, assembly of product parts, method and materials for packaging, shipping and transportation, consequences to the environment, etc. An algorithm used to compile the supply-chain disclosures may then result in a visual indication (e.g., a seal) and/or printed report (e.g., receipt) on the respective product or service criteria produced in advance of sale.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a centralized website may be generated, stored, and executed on servers, where the centralized website has a particular “look and feel” (e.g., a template). In association with granting online e-franchise rights to a secondary entity, a secondary website may be generated, stored, and executed (e.g., on the servers) for the secondary entity and its particular field of endeavor, where each secondary website has the same particular look and feel as the centralized website. Stored content for the secondary website may be managed and monitored to ensure that it (in addition to the business practice of the secondary entity) is operated in accordance with standards set forth by the centralized entity. In this manner, novel e-commerce models may be created and operated, such as a virtual community of associated alliance members that may be accessed by outside users familiar with and confident in the community.