There are a number of retail businesses that owe at least a portion of their success to the sales generated through business customers, including Grainger, Home Depot, Sam's Club and Staples. We can also add Amazon.com to that list with the formal launch of its Amazon Business (www.amazon.com/business) marketplace.
The new site provides access to "hundreds of millions of products," including IT and lab equipment as well as education and food service supplies. The site has features and benefits specifically designed for businesses, such as free two-day shipping on eligible items, tax exemptions and dedicated customer support.
"We've heard from business customers that they love the convenience of shopping online, and want an experience at work that is similar to how they shop at home," said Prentis Wilson, vice president of Amazon Business, in a statement. "Amazon Business delivers a new and expanded marketplace that brings the selection, convenience and value of Amazon to business customers, manufacturers and sellers with the additional selection, features and back-end integration businesses need to save time and money."
Source: Source: Amazon Business
According to a Wall Street Journal report, Amazon Business customers are also eligible for special pricing. Amazon Business customers can purchase a Belkin iPad air case for $23.81 compared with $29.81 on Amazon.com
"We think this is an experience that businesses will love and a great opportunity for manufacturers and sellers to reach registered business customers," said Mr. Wilson. "It's only the beginning for this new marketplace — we will continue to build out features in areas like product support, payments, shipping and pricing."