Network Solutions, a provider of Web solutions and domain name registration, announced this week it has entered into an agreement to acquire MonsterCommerce, a popular e-commerce solutions provider. With this acquisition Network Solutions adds an e-commerce product to its portfolio that includes online marketing, Web design and search engine optimization services.

"MonsterCommerce is an e-commerce powerhouse that has created a suite of best-in-class products, services and customer support that further enhances the Network Solutions products and services portfolio," said Champ Mitchell, chairman and CEO of Network Solutions, in a written release. "Our goal is to leverage each company's core competencies in order to provide customers the products, services, and support they need to get online, easily and affordably, so they can grow their business to its full potential."

"The Network Solutions acquisition gives MonsterCommerce the resources needed to expand our product development efforts, as well as the ability to bring innovative product offerings to market quickly," said Stephanie Leffler, CEO of MonsterCommerce.

While the acquisition appears to be a match made in heaven, some long-time MonsterCommerce users have concerns. Steve DiPietro, of the DiPietro Marketing Group, a strategic Web marketing company, told ECommerce-Guide.com, "MonsterCommerce is about as good as it gets. My concern is that Network Solutions, in an effort to begin to realize a return on its investment as quickly as possible, might scale back in some way such as with the 24/7 tech support, or, perhaps begin to increase already pricey monthly rates."

According to a company statement, MonsterCommerce's headquarters will remain in Belleville, IL, and the company will continue to promote and support the MonsterCommerce brand, with the added tagline "a Network Solutions company." The MonsterCommerce suite of e-commerce, online marketing and Web design services will be offered to new and existing Network Solutions customers. In addition, all of Network Solutions products and services will be available to MonsterCommerce customers. The two companies say they will also work together to develop new services.

Devin Comiskey is the Managing Editor of ECommerce-Guide.com.