Amazon.com Inc. released financial results last week for the its third quarter ended September 30, 2002. Net sales were $851 million, compared with $639 million in the third quarter 2001, an increase of 33%. Net loss was $35 million compared with a third quarter 2001 net loss of $170 million.

"We've lowered prices five times over the last 15 months, and simply put, it's working," said Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon.com. "Based on the results so far, we've made the decision to leave Super Saver Shipping-free on orders over $25 in place at least through the holidays." Amazon.com currently offers 30% off books over $15 and Free Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.

Amazon also introduced a new "store" recently: Apparel & Accessories. It is offering a limited-time offer $30 promotional certificate when users make a purchase of $50 or more before taxes, shipping, and other promotions in the new Apparel & Accessories Store. http://www.amazon.com/ruby

The company also introduced the Amazon.com Platinum Visa card. As part of an introductory offer, individuals who apply for the Amazon.com Platinum Visa card and use it at Amazon.com before November 15, 2002, will earn a $20 promotional certificate toward a future Amazon.com purchase. Amazon.com Platinum Visa cardmembers also earn three points for every dollar spent on Amazon.com purchases and one point for every dollar spent on all other purchases. Each time cardmembers accumulate 2,500 points, they will automatically receive a $25 reward certificate to use toward Amazon.com purchases.

http://www.amazon.com