This archive report was first published on 12 November 2019.
On November 12, 2019, Whatsapp business launched a catalogue feature in its business app, enabling small businesses to showcase their products and add useful information such as pictures, product descriptions, and prices.
This feature allows customers to get information on the products without messaging the sellers, streamlining the customer journey and improving the overall shopping experience.
The catalogue feature is a significant step towards growing social commerce in Africa, where at least 24% of market activities stem from social media, according to a survey in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.
Enhancing User Experience ¶
Previously, business owners would have to source pictures from their gallery every time a customer requested information on a product, or refer them to an Instagram page or website, resulting in a lengthy and frustrating customer journey.
With the catalogue feature, businesses can now showcase their products in a single, easily accessible place, reducing the time and effort required for customers to make a purchase.
Future Plans ¶
Whatsapp plans to add more features such as chat labels, business profiles, and automated replies to further enhance the shopping experience.
The catalogue feature is currently available to businesses in Brazil, Germany, India, Indonesia, Mexico, the U.K., and the U.S., with plans to roll it out to the rest of the world in the future.
