Google announced this week that Google Product Search in the US would be rebranded Google Shopping and would operate on a purely commercial Paid listings basis, to roll-out in autumn, 2012.
Interestingly Google made the announcement as part of a drive to improve the quality of product data for the end-user, under the premise that advertisers are more likely to ensure price sand product information is updated, if they are paying for the privilege.
The implications will be significant for UK advertisers, with an inevitable roll-out on these shores probably in the 1st quarter of 2013.
We at Regroup regard this as positive news, as the Product/ Shopping channel has long been confusing to advertisers and consumers alike. Under a Paid model, one would hope the rules of engagement will be clearer for all concerned.
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