The company explained that the new feature is introduced as a way to help businesses that are currently struggling in the wake of COVID-19, where the situation had forced most traditional brick and mortar shops to close. Merchants will be able to create a Facebook or Instagram Shop for free and are only required to upload their catalogue and highlight featured products to be sold.
On Instagram, users will be able to browse products directly from the Explore page and, as mentioned earlier, make their purchases directly from a business’ profile page. At this time, the photo sharing platform currently allows users to browse products, but will lead them to the merchant’s official website if they wish to make a purchase.
Also included in this upcoming rollout on both platforms is the ability to let users shop during a live video stream, where businesses can demonstrate or showcase their products and take orders from customers at the same time. Other than that, the company will enable users to link their loyalty programs from various merchants to their Facebook account as well. This would allow them to easily see and keep track of their points and rewards via the social media platform.
The Shops feature is currently available on Facebook in the US, and will be more widely available in the coming months. The company stated that the feature will eventually roll out on Instagram sometime in summer. (Source: Facebook Official Blog)
