BBBOnline Reliability program checks Web sellers – Businesses in Eastern Washington, North Idaho and Montana that are interested in qualifying are encouraged to contact the BBB

The Better Business Bureau’s BBBOnLine program, designed to help ensure consumer confidence in shopping on the Internet, has reached a new milestone. More than 25,000 Web sites in the United States and Canada are now qualified to display the BBBOnLine Reliability seal.

"By demonstrating that they have met high standards for online business practices, these 25,000 Web sites provide an important measure of confidence to consumers looking for trustworthy shopping sites on the Internet," said Jan Quintrall, president of the BBB Serving Eastern Washington, North Idaho and Montana.

The companies have all been in business for at least one year, are Better Business Bureau members via their headquarters offices, have pledged to meet BBB Code of Online Business Practice standards, and are committed to work with the BBB and their customers to resolve any disputes that may arise. Seal holders range from traditional retailers like Procter & Gamble and J.C. Penney, to online businesses like eToys and Zappos.com, and a broad variety of smaller, local enterprises.

Tom Ryan, chairman chair of the CBBB’s Board of Directors, said "To have reached 25,000 participants in this program denoting strong business practices and customer service on the Web is quite an accomplishment. BBBOnLine offers meaningful protection to consumers shopping online, during the holidays and year round."

Businesses that are interested in qualifying to display the BBBOnLine Reliability seal may contact TheLocalBBB at: 509-455-4200 or 800-356-1007 or visit http://www.thelocalbbb.com for enrollment information.

By ZAN DEERY

Full Story: http://www.cdapress.com/articles/2005/12/31/business/bus02.txt