How does Google Merchant work?
To use Google Merchant, you will need to create a Google Merchant Centre account and upload your product catalogue. This catalogue will then be indexed by Google, and your products will appear in search results whenever a user searches for something relevant.
The setup process is fairly simple, but requires a few basic steps:
- Create a Google Merchant Centre account;
- Add your e-commerce details;
- Upload your product catalogue;
- Configure your publishing settings;
- Activate promotional campaigns (optional).
Once you have completed these steps, your products will be visible in Google search results and you can start reaping the rewards of this powerful marketing strategy.
How to upload your product catalogue to Google Merchant
One of the key steps in integrating Google Merchant into your e-commerce site is uploading your product catalogue. Here are the main steps to follow:
1. Prepare the product feed file
The first step is to create a file that contains all the information about your products. This file can be in XML, TXT or CSV format and must follow a specific format dictated by Google.
The information to be included in the feed file is:
- Product ID
- Title
- Description
- Price
- Image
- Category
- Availability
- And many other optional fields
Ensure that the file is formatted correctly and contains all the data required by Google Merchant.
2. Upload the feed file to Merchant Centre
Once your feed file is ready, log in to your Google Merchant Centre account and go to the "Products" section. Here you will find the option to upload your feed file.
Follow the instructions provided by Google carefully to complete the upload. You can also choose to set up automatic feed updates so that your products are updated in real time.
3. Check the quality of the feed
After uploading the file, Google will analyse your feed to verify that it complies with the required standards. You will be able to view any errors or issues found in the "Feed monitoring" section.
If Google detects any issues, you will need to correct the feed file and re-upload it until it is approved.
4. Publish your products
Once your feed has been approved, you can publish your products and make them visible in Google search results.
Tools for creating Google Merchant feeds
There are several recommended tools for creating the product feed file to upload to Google Merchant, and our consultants will advise you on the best ones for you.
1. Google Sheets
A simple and free solution is to use Google Sheets. You can create a new spreadsheet and structure it according to the format required by Google Merchant. When you are ready, export the file in CSV format.
2. Plugins and CMS tools
Many CMS and e-commerce platforms offer plugins or built-in tools to automatically generate the feed file for Google Merchant. For example:
- WooCommerce has the "WooCommerce Google Product Feed" plugin
- Magento has the "Google Shopping Feed" extension
- Shopify has the "Google Shopping" app
These tools greatly simplify the creation of the feed by adapting it directly to Google Merchant's requirements.
3. Third-party tools
There are also third-party services that specialise in generating product feeds for Google Merchant and other online sales channels. Some examples are:
- DataFeedWatch: allows you to create, optimise and distribute product feeds for different marketplaces
- FeedbackWhiz: allows you to generate feeds for Amazon, eBay, Google Merchant and others
- GoDataFeed: offers solutions for creating and automating product feeds
These tools add additional features and customisation options compared to built-in solutions.
Regardless of the tool you choose, it is important to ensure that the feed file generated is complete, accurate and compliant with Google Merchant standards. If you have any questions, our team will be happy to assist you.
Advantages of Google Merchant for your e-commerce
Integrating Google Merchant into your e-commerce offers numerous advantages:
- Greater visibility: your products will be visible on Google search results, increasing your brand awareness and traffic to your site.
- More conversions: users who see your products directly in search results are already interested and more likely to make a purchase.
- Reduced costs: Google Merchant is a free platform, so you can benefit from this sales channel without incurring additional costs.
- Data and analytics: Google Merchant provides you with data and metrics on your products, so you can refine your strategy and achieve ever better results.
Conclusion
Google Merchant is an essential tool for any e-commerce business that wants to increase its sales and online visibility. Thanks to this platform, your products will be easily accessible to users looking for items similar to yours, with a direct impact on your turnover.
If you want to make the most of Google Merchant's potential for your business, do not hesitate to contact Cuborio. Our team of computer engineers will guide you step by step through the integration of this solution and help you achieve tangible results for your e-commerce business.
