Introducing Facebook Shops
Facebook continues to be the leading digital platform in the world with over 1.62 billion users visiting the platform on a daily basis. Today, they have announced their brand new ‘Shops’ feature which makes it easy for businesses to set up a single online store for customers to access on both Facebook and Instagram.
The new ‘Shops’ feature has a simple and convenient setup, brands simply select products from their existing online catalog and customise the look and feel of their Facebook shop with a cover image and a fun colour theme which they can easily swap & change. Shops are accessible for all merchants, no matter their size or budget.
What makes this shopping feature so revolutionary? Additionally to browsing full collections, saving products, and placing orders – either on the business’ website or without leaving the app – Facebook shops will allow you to message a business through WhatsApp, Messenger, or Instagram Direct to ask questions, get support, track deliveries and more.
Similarly to when you’re shopping at a brick and mortar store, the new feature connects customers and users in real-time avoiding the back-and-forth of email. And in the future, you’ll be able to view a business’ shop and make purchases right within a chat in WhatsApp, Messenger, or Instagram Direct.
Introducing Instagram Shops
Yesterday, Instagram launched a new native shopping experience on their platform with the aim to continue supporting businesses across the world during the COVID-19 crisis.
The new button, which sits on top of the contact options on Instagram business’ profiles, can also be found on Feeds and Stories. The link takes you to a full-screen storefront where people can browse products, explore collections, and purchase products — seamlessly through their in-app browser or without leaving the app from shops simply clicking checkout.
The benefits of Shops are twofold: enable businesses to build their brand story and drive product discovery amongst their following and give users a pleasant and easy experience of shopping rather than buying.
Instagram announced they will begin a phased rollout of shops to all businesses globally on Facebook and Instagram Shopping. Starting with eligible businesses in the US, who already make use of Instagram Profile Shops, and slowly expanding in the coming months. Eligible businesses will be notified by email when their shop is ready for setup.
For any Social Media Marketing inquiries please get in touch.