NEW GADGET: `SHOPPING MALL IN A BOX'

NEW GADGET: `SHOPPING MALL IN A BOX'

MUNICH, Germany (Wireless Flash) -- A new computerized shopping machine designed to be installed in office buildings could make shopping malls obsolete. The so-called "Shopping Box" resembles an oversized ATM machine, and allows people to order groceries, get their dry cleaning done or even buy trinkets without leaving their workplace. The device contains 6-foot-tall modules with temperature- controlled drawers that hold frozen foods, flowers, or even theater tickets. Users simply place orders by phone, e-mail or fax, and the products are delivered to the unit within 24 hours. Customers can also leave their laundry or shoes in the box to be fixed or cleaned. So far, only two "shopping mall in a box" devices are operating: one in a bank in Frankfurt, Germany, and another in a Munich office building. However, Shopping Box spokesperson Diethard Schafer says the company hopes to install at least four more machines in German office buildings before the end of the year.

CONTACT: Diethard Schafer, ***1/2; Munich; 011-49-891-780-3560