Borders goes solo online

Book chain ends Amazon partnership with upgraded web site launch

Borders wants greater online autonomy

Book retailer Borders has ended its alliance Amazon for the running of its e-commerce operations.

The agreeement between the two businesses, in place since 1991, expires in February and Borders' new site will formally launch by this spring.

"We are literally starting with a blank page," said Borders executive vice president Rob Gruen.

Developing the new site will allow more online autonomy for Borders and a closer relationship with its customers, says the retailer.

Features on the web will include an online rewards scheme, customer interaction and music downloads.

Ahead of the launch, wholesaler Gardners Books sealed an agreement with Borders for fulfilment of both physical and online orders.