Facebook Shops: the tech giant is on a quest to build the world’s largest shopping social media platform
This morning, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg went live to detail changes to Facebook’s ‘Shops’ feature. The feature will allow new ways for users to shop across Facebook and Instagram.
Last year, both platforms launched their Shops tab to help businesses go digital amidst worldwide lockdowns to contain the spread of Covid-19.
The feature allowed shop owners to set up a unified, customisable store across Facebook and Instagram. Since then, Facebook has gained over 300 million visitors to Shops per month, and over 1.2 million active Shops.
Facebook Shops will expand to WhatsApp and Marketplace
The update announced today will give businesses in select countries the option to showcase their Shop in WhatsApp. The update will also allow users in the US to list their Shops products in Marketplace.
“We’re launching the ability for a business to send shoppers to where you’re going to be most likely to make a purchase based on your shopping behaviour,” Mark Zuckerberg said this morning.
“We are making the online shopping journey more personalised, more entertaining, and more seamless.” said Kate Box. Head of Retail at Facebook Australia and New Zealand.
“Instagram and Facebook are a new Westfield!”
Kate Box, Head of Retail at Facebook Australia and New Zealand.
Instagram Visual Search
The Facebook Shops update will also include new visual discovery tools on Instagram, which will help shoppers find new products. The Visual Search feature will help users find visually related products, similar to Pinterest.
“In the future we’ll make it possible for people to take photos from their camera to start a visual search,” Zuckerberg said.
“While it’s still early, we think visual search will enhance mobile shopping by making even more pieces of media on Instagram shoppable.”
Augmented Reality try-on tech
Additionally, new AI and AR features will allow users to visualise and virtually try on items before they buy through API integrations with Modiface and Perfect Corp.
The company is also introducing new tools for brands to include AR product catalogs in ads. These ads will automatically show relevant products to people based on their interests.
“AI and AR will further evolve how customers discover products they love. Australian’s will be able to find products online, with visual search and try-on immersive experiences available before making a purchase,” said Box.
Natasha is an Associate Producer at ticker NEWS with a Bachelor of arts from Monash University. She has previously worked at Sky News Australia and Monash University as an Online Content Producer.
Company eyes new credit and shares to survive as strikes and delays weigh the company down
Boeing is taking drastic steps to secure its future, seeking to raise at least $10 billion by selling new shares and securing a fresh credit line.
The iconic manufacturer has been struggling this year with major setbacks, including a 737 MAX mishap in January and a machinist strike that halted production.
In filings made Tuesday, Boeing revealed plans to issue up to $25 billion in shares or debt over the next three years while locking in a $10 billion credit deal.
Sources say the company will aim to raise around $10 billion from its upcoming stock offering.
Boeing called the moves “prudent steps” to ensure access to liquidity as it faces growing financial challenges.
Its stock, which began the year at $250, rose 2% to about $152 after the announcement, as analysts expressed relief over Boeing’s efforts to stabilize its cash flow.
The machinist strike, which started last month, has intensified the company’s cash problems, with Boeing burning through $1 billion per month before the walkout.
Boeing hasn’t posted a profit since 2018, and the coming months will be critical as it battles to recover.
Expert explores the key benefits of partnering with accountants who specialise in niche industries.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, having an accountant who understands the intricacies of e-commerce can make all the difference in your business’s success.
Specialist accountants understand the specific needs of e-commerce businesses, helping to maximise tax savings, streamline operations, and improve financial health.
Niche accountants can identify opportunities to scale, optimise profit margins, and implement strategies that align with your business goals, ultimately drive growth.
Chris Rivera, Founder of The Ecommerce Accountants, joins to share his key insights into the industry.