Instagram is making it easier for shop owners to boost merch sales with the launch of ads in their Shop tab. Instagram has changed the way we shop and built an engaging platform for users to discover and shop targeted products. And that includes merch!
Shop owners can now use Instagram shop ads in their marketing strategy to connect with compatible consumers. It may sound like another item on the to-do list, but it’s bound to put eyeballs on your merch.
Did you know: More than 130 million users tap on an Instagram Shopping post each month! Use Instagram Shop ads to promote your Spreadshop, boost merch sales and build a dedicated following.
The Set Up
Setting up Instagram Shop tab ads is a similar process to creating ads you see on your main feed.
The Facebook ad manager allows you to build ads by selecting a targeted audience, adding relevant product tags and more. Track insights and view demographics to see who your audience is as a jumping off point. You want your ads to connect with who you’re trying to reach out to. Encourage them to interact with your shop.
Our 5-step guide to using Instagram ads goes into more detail about how to use ads to boost merch sales.
But Instagram Shop ads live in a place where people are already in the shopping mode. This makes them a more engaging form of promotion with an added unique look.
The Look
Instagram Shop ads will appear as tiles in the Shop tab, integrated with other relevant listings for users.
Everyone’s Shop tab looks different; it all depends on your interests. The Instagram algorithm sees what you engage with and picks products and shops that are relevant to those actions.
If you’re into retro fashion, you’ll be shown small businesses that cater to that niche demographic. Same goes for other interests like gaming, gardening and reading. When you click on one of these ads, you’ll be taken to a product details page with other information.
Learn more about the item, view different images and browse additional products from that brand.
Users can also save products to their wishlist and share with friends. But picking the right photos is going to be key to ensuring success with your ads.
The Shot
Marketing your merch is different on every platform, and Instagram is all about having those sharable shots. This is your chance to get creative with the way you promote your merch and look at your shop differently.
People want to see what your merch looks like on real people in natural environments. Take the time to do themed photoshoots with family/friends. Use settings that optimize the niche factor or aesthetic of your merch.
This extra effort will get you photos you can use for other social promotion and boost your brand exposure immensely. Instagram users want to see how your merch will work in their daily lives. And these kinds of product photos will help emphasize that.
Instagram Shop tab ads also make you look like a reliable source. People will trust that your shop is authentic and be more willing to engage with your products.
The Result
Jumping on Instagram Shop tab ads – especially this early in the game – is only going to benefit your merch. And you don’t have to sink in a ton of money.
Start with a modest budget that gives you room to grow based on the response you get. Test the waters and see what types of photos or merch designs users are engaging with.
You might still be asking yourself: is Instagram advertising worth it?
There’s so many benefits to using Instagram Shop tab to promote your products. Easily find your audience through product tags and targeting. Use engagement rates to your advantage. Learn how to best market your merch and grow your business.
And it makes it so much easier when users are already in the shopping mindset.
Instagram Shop ads are going to be the way of the future for small shops and businesses. And that includes merch sellers, too!
Don’t have merch yet?
Set up your Spreadshop and start to drive sales to your shop today!
wpDiscuz
I think this article is a great resource for anyone looking to increase their merch sales through Instagram. The step-by-step guide on setting up an Instagram Shop tab is easy to follow, and the tips on how to optimize your product listings for Instagram are really helpful. I particularly liked the suggestion to use user-generated content to showcase your products in real-life situations.