Circuit City launches social networking website

Circuit City Stores, Inc. (NYSE: CC) has apparently been listening to all the media chatter this year centered around social networking and has decided to jump into the game. The second-largest consumer electronics chain in the U.S. has launched its new 'CityCenter' social networking website (within its regular website).

This new interactive website will let Circuit City customers compare experiences about certain products (and Circuit City itself, I'd imagine), find out pre-purchase information from real customers and seek out detailed advice on which products to buy.

In an age of pushing the highest-market electronics possible to the public, the open communication this will embody among Circuit City customers should prove helpful for those looking for the best products at the best prices. Kudos to Circuit City here. Yes, that's something I haven't stated all year. That is, until now.

Empowering consumers to trade real-world information outside of marketing fluff is a great way to build loyalty and give those consumers a feeling of being in charge -- which is just what Circuit City needs at this point in its life.
Not only will text be allowed, but the CityCenter website will allow photos, blog entries, and videos to be posted by visitors. In addition, the website will play host to complete customer forums.