US websites are offering clickable "e-coupons" for discounts on everything from books to food. Web-surfers visiting www.ecoupons.com have the option of printing out coupons for use in local shops or using them to order items from a particular website. Customers simply enter their postal zip code and a list of participating retailers appears.

Rebates offering cash back every time a person shops are also available to site members. Although the idea has not caught on as quickly in Europe, no doubt it's just a matter of time.