CHICAGO, Recognized for its unique combination of Internet technology and human-touch services in addressing raw materials procurement, fob recently was honored by VerticalZOOMTM with their "Most Innovative Business Model" award. VerticalZOOM, a division of SimplicaTM Corporation, which specializes in B2B research and provides in-depth profiles and ratings of e-commerce companies, administered the selection process. fob was one of six finalists chosen from more than 2,000 e-commerce companies evaluated by the organization. The awards ceremony took place at the eB2B MarketplaceWorld conference in September in San Francisco. "We're excited to have received this award," said fob CEO, Patrick Blake. "It validates what we have been saying from the start - that ultimately, the winning e-commerce players will be those companies who listen to their customers, provide flexible offerings and demonstrate the greatest value." VerticalZOOM solicited award entries and rated the eMarketplaces via a comprehensive and thorough evaluation process. The company surveyed industrial and commercial buyers to obtain feedback on top e-commerce companies and reviewed detailed information about each company's business model, level of innovation, technology, domain expertise, support service capabilities, supply chain integration and commercial activity to help determine the winners. "Built on a foundation of industry expertise in critical raw materials markets and leading-edge technology, fob's eProcurement services platform provides a seamless purchasing solution through an easy-to-use and secure interface," said Ruth T. Norman, Vice President and General Manager, VerticalZOOM. "fob was selected by VerticalZOOM for the Most Innovative Business Model award because of its singular focus on raw materials, distinctive business model, and noteworthy success in addressing the direct material needs of fragmented industries."