Program banks on 'information islands'

Beijing Newspapers and Periodicals Co, which leases out newsstand space in Beijing, plans to add more digital features and functions to its business, which has been greatly affected by the development of the Internet.

The company had introduced 11 "intelligent" newsstands in the capital by the end of March as part of a pilot program, it said.

These include light-emitting diode and liquid crystal display features offering weather and traffic control information and news. On top of the usual sale of newspapers and periodicals, customers can also access services such as recharging their cellphones, transferring money, and paying water and electricity bills at newsstand kiosks.