During a time where many physical stores remain closed, Facebook Shops provides a facility to help small businesses trade. The new online platform enables any seller to bring their business online and connect with customers.

Creating a shop is free and simple

The platform makes it easy for businesses to set up a single online store for customers to access on both Facebook and Instagram. Businesses can choose the products they want to feature and then customise the look of their shop with a cover image and accent colours.

Customers can find Facebook Shops on a business’ Facebook Page or Instagram profile. Shoppers can also discover them through stories or ads. From there, it is possible to browse a shop’s full collection, save products and place an order.

If a customer has a question or needs support, they can message the business through WhatsApp, Messenger, or Instagram Direct. In time, it will also be possible to view a business’ shop and make a purchase within a chat in WhatsApp, Messenger, or Instagram Direct.

Facebook Shops is currently rolling out and will be more widely available in the coming months. Investment across apps such as Instagram Shop and live shopping is currently underway. These will be integrated with Facebook Shops to help customers discover products they’re interested in and make purchasing easier.