Instill To Roll Out Purchase-Analysis Service

The real money in electronic business may be in data. InstillCorp., which offers a secure online ordering system for thefood-service industry, plans this week to launch PurchaseInsight, an information service designed to help subscribersanalyze their purchasing history to spot money-savingopportunities.

Purchase Insight monitors compliance with prenegotiatedpurchasing contracts to help buyers find and eliminate so-called "rogue purchasing" of unnecessary items, or purchasesof items at higher-than-necessary prices. The service isaimed at food-service companies operating several locations,such as chain restaurants and catering operations servingbusinesses, universities, and public venues such as stadiums.

Initial customers include Bon Appetit Management, DelawareNorth, and the Harrah's hotel chain. Purchase Insight,available immediately, is priced at $2,000 to $50,000 permonth, depending on purchasing volume.