The package from software group Applecart and its sister firm pre-press and design agency Fresh-Vision creates interactive cyber versions of catalogues allowing users to print, turn pages and buy direct from the web page.

ActiveCatalogue uses a bespoke coding programme that draws on technology from Olive Software.

Publishers benefited from an extra sales outlet with up-to-date pricing and reduced distribution costs, said a spokesman. "The kit offers more direct and accurate marketing through rapid turnaround times for publication and a searchable XML database."

Applecart Solutions and Fresh-Vision are divisions of the Fresh Media Group.

The group said said Outdoor Group, which publishes the Millets catalogue, was aiming to use ActiveCatalogue on one of its titles next year.

Story by Jez Abbott