Remember when Facebook’s primary purpose was for users like you and me – and one and half billion others – to simply connect and share with the people in our lives?
If those days seem long gone, it’s because they are.
Since launching more than 10 years ago, Facebook has transformed itself tremendously. Now, the platform is looking to change the way you shop (read: trying to make sure you never leave the site or mobile app again).
The new shopping feature, currently being tested among select companies and users, allows retailers to use their Facebook Page as an online store. There are certainly some serious benefits that come with this next step but like with most things, there are also potential drawbacks.
Here are a few of our initial reactions.
The Good.
- Companies get to build their brand and engage with customers while boosting sales, and Facebook won’t take a cut of their sales (for now).
- Consumers can window-shop and purchase goods seamlessly, assuming the user experience is superior.
- Smaller companies or startups without e-commerce capabilities could leverage the opportunity to sell directly to customers, a la Etsy, but with a much larger reach and potential customer base.
The Not So Good.
- Using the shopping feature provides Facebook with even more access to your personal data (to this I say, “no thanks”) and they’ll likely use it entice retailers to pay for advertising.
- Facebook isn’t the first, and certainly won’t be the last, platform to offer up e-commerce. So, as a consumer, why should I choose Facebook over the retailer’s site, Amazon or even Pinterest if I’m browsing social networks?
- While you might still spot a few personal updates from your friends and family in your newsfeed, you’re also likely going to be served up “Buy This Now” messaging on the regular. Shopaholics and impulse buyers beware.
Industry experts are divided on whether or not Facebook’s latest endeavor will prove successful. Tell us what you think in the comments below.
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