Promoting the sale of goods and services of others through the distribution of discount coupons, printed advertising material, promotional contests and discount cards via an on-line electronic communications network; promoting the goods and services of others, via an on-line electronic communications network, by means of a preferred customer program featuring discounts and rebates for purchases from participating merchants; promoting the sale of goods and services of others by awarding purchase points for credit card use via an on-line electronic communications network; dissemination of advertising for others via an on-line electronic communications network; and conducting marketing services