Canadians who SHOP online will no longer be treated as second-class citizens, with the pending arrival of SHOP.CA. Launching May 2012, and now signing up Canadians through a $10 million and 5x Rewards programs, SHOP.CA is poised to change forever the way Canadians SHOP and socialize online.

SHOP.CA will have a product selection 20 times the size of its closest Canadian rival, free shipping, free returns and a fun Social Loyalty Network that will be the most engaging and rewarding in Canada.

With a team that includes celebrated next generation thinkers Don Tapscott and Rana Florida and a technology platform designed alongside partners that include IBM, Bell and Demand Media, SHOP.CA will be the largest eCommerce launch in Canadian history.

“SHOP.CA is built specifically to meet Canadians’ shopping needs,” says Drew Green, founder and ceo. “Buying products and services online can be a frustrating experience for Canadians. Often products and brands are hard to find in one place, unavailable in Canada, or shipped from US sites with exorbitant shipping fees and duty, and an inability to make returns.”

Total eCommerce is expected to exceed $22 billion in Canada this year, but the lack of a single marketplace here means two-thirds of purchases end up going to US businesses despite the great roster of Canadian retailers that exist here at home, Green adds. “Our investment in SHOP.CA will give Canadians a single destination that covers a vast array of products and services, putting an end to the need for this outflow.”

Trevor Newell, founder and president is excited that “SHOP.CA will bring Canadians a completely unique and social shopping experience,” offering:

* A virtual inventory valued at $10 billion across 25-plus categories;

* A Social Loyalty Network rewards program with up to 2.5 per cent cash back;

* Unmatched customer service led by the SHOP.CA Canadian Care Team;

* Engaging user-generated content personalized to meet individual tastes.

Green and Newell have assembled an unmatched group of marketing and technology executives, investors and partners to design and bring to life an online shopping experience that will revolutionize what Canadians ought to expect.

Don Tapscott chairs the SHOP.CA advisory board. A trusted consultant to companies and governments around the globe, Don is one of the world’s most respected and quoted authorities on innovation, media, and the economic and social impact of technology.

“From ancient open air Greek agoras to gigantic enclosed malls, shopping has always played a central role in shaping a society’s culture,” explains Tapscott. “People are now just starting to appreciate the potential the digital world has to change the way we live and interact with each other.”

An advisor to some of the world’s most respected brands, Rana Florida is in high demand from media for her insights on creativity, business and design.

“Now Canadians will have the convenience, efficiency and speed of online shopping that is so readily available south of the border,” says Florida. “SHOP.CA is a game changer in a much needed market.”