Google Shopping has changed a lot over the years. It started as a free service where businesses could list their products and get traffic from Google’s search results. Then, Google switched to a paid model, requiring businesses to pay for ads to appear in the Shopping tab. Now, it’s free again.
I used it years ago, just before it switched to paid, and I’m so pleased to find out it’s free again. I just wish I’d known sooner!
Why Did Google Make It Free Again?
Google made this change to help businesses, especially small ones, get more exposure. With more people shopping online, they wanted to offer more product choices directly in search results. It also helps Google compete with other online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. By allowing free listings, they can show more products and keep shoppers on Google rather than them going straight to other platforms.
Google first made Shopping free again in April 2020, rolling it out in the U.S. and expanding globally by October 2020. This was partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as many retailers were struggling. Google introduced free listings to help businesses during this difficult time and give them more ways to reach customers without extra costs.
Why You Should List Your Products on Google Shopping
If you sell online, adding your products to Google Shopping is a no-brainer. Here’s why:
- More Visibility – Your products can appear in Google’s search results without you having to pay for ads.
- More Traffic – It’s another way to drive potential customers to your website.
- Free Exposure – Unlike paid ads, you don’t have to spend money to list your products.
- Compete with Bigger Retailers – Even if you’re a small seller, your products can appear alongside bigger brands.
Paid and Free Versions
Google Shopping offers both free and paid listings, each serving different purposes. Free listings allow products to appear organically in the “Shopping” tab, as well as in Google Search and Images, providing businesses with cost-free exposure to a broad audience.
Paid listings, on the other hand, are managed through Google Ads and enjoy premium placement, such as at the top of search results or highlighted in the Shopping tab, offering greater visibility and control.
Additionally, paid listings include advanced targeting features and in-depth performance analytics, making them ideal for businesses looking to promote key products or drive targeted traffic. Combining both options can help businesses balance cost-effectiveness and strategic reach.
How to Get Started with Free Google Shopping
To list your products on Google Shopping, you’ll need to set up a Google Merchant Center account and upload a product feed. If you’re already selling on platforms like eBay, this is handled for you automatically.
I recently opened a shop with Freewebstore, and they provide a product feed with all the details needed to list your products on Google Shopping. Their support has been excellent, very helpful and responsive when I needed it!
I’ve recently uploaded my feed, so I’ll see how it goes. I think it’s a great way for online sellers to drive more traffic without spending extra on ads.
What Makes Merchants Eligible to Advertise on Google Shopping for Free?
To advertise on Google Shopping for free, merchants need to meet certain eligibility requirements:
- Adhere to Policies: Merchants must comply with Google’s policies for free listings and shopping ads.
- Product Data: Provide accurate and complete product information, including attributes like title, description, price, and availability.
- Return Policy: Display a clear return policy on the website and include it in their Google Merchant Center account.
- Shipping Information: Add shipping details either through the Merchant Center’s delivery settings or by using the shipping attribute in the product data.
- Website Verification: Verify and claim their website in the Google Merchant Center.
These steps ensure that products are eligible to appear in free listings across Google platforms like Search, Images, and the Shopping tab
Is Google Shopping Staying Free?
Yes, Google Shopping’s free listings are here to stay! Since their introduction in 2020, free listings have become a permanent feature,
Have you tried Google Shopping? I’d love to hear about your experience!
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