Musicland Group Inc., one of the nation's leading specialty retailers of music, movies and entertainment-related products, announced the launch of Showbidz, an auction site offering exclusive entertainment merchandise to members of the company's loyalty program, Replay.

"Showbidz offers our Replay members access to bid on exclusive collector items from a credible source, which elevates the authenticity concerns often found with online auctions," said Musicland CEO Eric Weisman. "We created the site to strengthen our relationship with our customers and differentiate Replay from other retail loyalty programs."

Each month, Showbidz will provide members an opportunity to bid on more than 50 exclusive entertainment items, including autographed memorabilia, concert tickets, backstage passes, one-of-a kind merchandise and artist meet-and-greet sessions. Merchandise highlights for Showbidz's inaugural month include:

• Country Music Artist Joe Nichols autographed Guitar and CD
  - Signed "The Cure" guitar
  - School of Rock Jean Jacket
  - Limited-edition Shrek 2 Pictures
  - Love Actually DVD signed by Hugh Grant
  

Replay members may bid on these items by using the Replay Showbidz bucks they earn from predefined actions, which include purchasing products from Sam Goody, Suncoast or Media Play retail stores or online sites, renewing their Replay membership or reserving upcoming music, movie or game titles. Members will continue to earn their money-saving Replay Reward Points in addition to the new Replay Showbidz bucks.

"Our Replay members visit us twice as often as the average shopper," said Replay Director Brian Miller. "In addition to providing ongoing savings, Replay now offers our best customers access to win unique and authentic entertainment items. We created Showbidz as part of our commitment to strengthen and enhance our customer relationships."

Musicland's loyalty program was launched in 1993 as the "Producer's Club" for the company's Suncoast retail stores and was renamed in 1998 when it expanded to Sam Goody and Media Play stores. The program has approximately two million members and is considered one of the most successful loyalty programs offered by an entertainment retailer. Customers interested in becoming a member can enroll at any Sam Goody, Suncoast or Media Play store, or call 1-888-REPLAY1.

http://www.mediaplay.com/Cards/ReplayShowbidz.aspx?si=mediaplay

https://www.replayrewards.com