In August of 2020, Facebook introduced Facebook Shops. Facebook Shops is a place for discovering business and searching for products in the Facebook app. Facebook expanded checkout on Instagram, called Instagram Shop, to all US businesses and creators. Now, the feature is rolling out to users in the United Kingdom. It marks the first European market where the Facebook feature is available.
During the COVID-19 outbreak, the shift to online shopping has rapidly accelerated. An estimated 85% of people worldwide now shopping online. Facebook said it wants to make shopping easier for people and empower anyone to use their apps to connect with customers and grow their business. The social media platform is creating new ways for people to shop on their apps and providing tools to help businesses sell online.
Facebook Shops rolls out in the UK and Canada
Currently, Facebook Shops will also be available to users in the United Kingdom and Canada. Both big brands and small one-person operations can connect with their customers through the popular social media app. Practically any business can open a virtual storefront. In addition, users can get inspired and discover new businesses through curated product collections from sellers with a shop on Facebook.
New tools for businesses
One of the easiest ways for businesses to showcase their products on Facebook and Instagram is through Facebook Shops. The feature makes it simple for businesses to set up a single online store that customers can access on both Facebook and Instagram. Facebook launched Shops in May 2020. Moreover, the platform made it available to any eligible business and adding customization features, messaging and new insights to help businesses measure results. Facebook also expanded checkout on Instagram to all US businesses and creators.