WhatsApp Catalog: The Unlimited Guide

10 Min Read

Written by

Raneya Selina

Published on

April 18, 2023

Are you struggling to keep your customers engaged on WhatsApp for Business, a platform designed for businesses to communicate with their customers? Want to showcase your products in a way that’s convenient, visually appealing, and drives sales? Then look no further than the WhatsApp Catalog, your secret weapon for turning WhatsApp chats into a sales powerhouse!

This comprehensive guide is paramount to unlocking the full potential of the WhatsApp Catalog. We’ll delve into everything you need to know, from understanding its core benefits to creating a captivating digital storefront within WhatsApp. Whether you’re a seasoned WhatsApp Business user or just starting, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and strategies to leverage the Catalog for maximum impact.

A Detailed Guide to WhatsApp Catalog Feature 

Imagine the transformation of your WhatsApp Business profile into a dedicated space to showcase your products – with high-quality images, detailed descriptions, and prices. That’s the magic of the WhatsApp Business Catalog! Unlike other e-commerce platforms, the Catalog is a powerful feature that can turn your WhatsApp chats into mini-shopping experiences, allowing customers to browse your products conveniently and seamlessly.

Here’s a breakdown of the key features that make the WhatsApp Business Catalog a game-changer for e-commerce:

1. Captivating Product Showcase

The WhatsApp Business Catalog allows you to create a visually appealing storefront within your chats. You can upload high-quality pictures of your products, showcasing them from various angles and highlighting key features. To make the most of this visual presentation, consider using professional product photography, ensuring consistent image quality, and using images that accurately represent your products.

2. Informative Descriptions

Beyond the visuals, the Catalog empowers you to provide detailed descriptions for each product.  This is your space to delve into the specifics –  describe functionalities, benefits, materials, and any other relevant information that a customer might need to make an informed purchase decision.  Clear and informative descriptions empower customers and reduce the need for back-and-forth communication, saving time and resources.

3. Transparent Pricing

Price is a crucial factor influencing buying decisions.  The WhatsApp Business Catalog lets you display product prices directly within the catalog. This transparency eliminates confusion and streamlines the buying process for customers. They can browse products, compare prices, and make informed choices without leaving the WhatsApp chat.

4. Effortless Browsing Experience

Gone are the days of directing customers to external websites to view your products. The WhatsApp Business Catalog allows customers to browse their entire product range directly within the chat interface, creating a seamless and convenient shopping experience. Customers can easily navigate through your catalog, filtering and searching for specific products, all within the familiar environment of WhatsApp.

5. Direct Communication Channel

The WhatsApp Business Catalog fosters a more interactive shopping experience by enabling direct communication between you and your customers.  Customers can inquire about specific products, seek clarification, or request recommendations through WhatsApp. This real-time communication lets you promptly address their queries, personalize their buying journey, and ultimately increase customer satisfaction and sales.

Benefits of WhatsApp Catalog for E-commerce 

The WhatsApp Catalog feature provides many benefits for e-commerce businesses, revolutionizing their interactions with customers and allowing them to showcase their products. 

  1. Enhanced Visibility: With WhatsApp being one of the most widely used messaging apps globally, the WhatsApp Catalog feature ensures your products are easily accessible to a vast audience. Having your catalog available within the chat increases the likelihood of customers viewing your products, as they do not need to leave the app to browse what you have to offer.
  2. Improved Customer Engagement: WhatsApp Catalog allows businesses to interact with customers more interactively and personalizedly. Customers can view products, ask questions, and get instant responses, creating a seamless and engaging shopping experience. This real-time interaction helps build trust by providing accurate and timely information, and fosters more robust relationships between businesses and customers.
  3. Ease of Use: Setting up and managing a WhatsApp Catalog is a breeze, designed to simplify your e-commerce journey. Businesses can swiftly add, edit, or remove products from their catalog, ensuring they are always up-to-date. The intuitive interface of the WhatsApp Business app makes it a cakewalk, even for those with limited technical skills, to manage their catalog effectively. Say goodbye to the complexities of traditional catalog management and embrace the convenience of the WhatsApp Catalog!
  4. Cost-Effective: The WhatsApp Catalog reduces the need for physical catalogs, printed brochures, and other traditional marketing materials, cutting down on costs associated with printing and distribution. It also eliminates the need for a complex e-commerce website, providing a cost-effective solution for small and medium-sized businesses to display their products online.
  5. Interactive Shopping Experience: The catalog feature allows customers to interact with products in real time. They can browse through images, read descriptions, and ask questions directly within the chat. This interactive experience fosters a sense of connection, mimicking the personal touch of in-store shopping, where customers can inquire about products and receive immediate assistance. With the WhatsApp Catalog, your customers are just a chat away from a personalized shopping experience!
  6. Increased Sales: The WhatsApp Catalog can be a game-changer for your sales strategy. It can boost conversion rates by offering a seamless and convenient shopping experience. Customers can quickly move from browsing to purchasing without any interruptions. The instant communication capability helps address any hesitations or questions that might prevent a sale, thereby boosting overall sales. With the WhatsApp Catalog, you have the potential to see a significant increase in your sales figures!

How to Create a WhatsApp Catalog

You can create a WhatsApp Catalog in two ways. The detailed descriptions are mentioned below.

Create a WhatsApp Catalog in the WhatsApp Business App 

Making a catalog in the WhatsApp Business app is straightforward and can significantly enhance your business’s ability to showcase products. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide:

1. Download and Set Up WhatsApp Business App

Download the WhatsApp Business app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Register your business phone number and complete your business profile with essential details like your name, logo, and description.’

2. Access WhatsApp Setting

Open the WhatsApp Business app and navigate the menu by clicking the three dots.

3. Press on the Business Tool

Now, you have to click on the Business Tools under Settings.

4. Navigate the Catalog option

After that, click on the Catalog to proceed. 

5. Press on the Add New Items

Then, click on the Add New Items option.

6. Write the Product Service Name

Enter a product or service name and other details, such as price, description, website link, and product or service.

7. Go to the Gallary

Choose the gallery option to upload images from your camera. You can include ten images.

8. Press the Save Option

Lastly, click on the save option to use this feature. 

Sync Your E-Commerce Shop Catalog 

Syncing your e-commerce shop catalog with WhatsApp Business ensures seamless updates and management. Here’s how to do it in easy steps:

1. Integrate Your E-Commerce Platform

Connect your e-commerce platform (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce) with Facebook Commerce Manager for seamless catalog management.

2. Access Facebook Commerce Manager

You must log in to your Facebook Commerce Manager account to begin syncing.

3. Create a New Catalog

Navigate to the ‘Catalog’ section and click ‘Create Catalog’ to start the setup.

4. Select E-Commerce Platform

Choose your e-commerce platform from the list provided in the catalog setup options.

5. Connect Your Store

Follow the prompts to connect your online store with Facebook Commerce Manager, allowing for automatic syncing.

6. Upload Product Data

Use a data feed to upload your product information, ensuring all details are correctly imported.

7. Enable Automatic Syncing

Set up automatic syncing to update your WhatsApp catalog with your e-commerce store in real-time.

8. Verify Product Details

Ensure all product details, such as images, prices, and descriptions, are correctly synced and displayed.

9. Publish Your Catalog

Once verified, publish your catalog to make it available on WhatsApp for customers to view and shop.

10. Regularly Monitor and Update

Regularly check your catalog to ensure all products are current, making necessary updates to maintain accuracy.

Connect Your WhatsApp Catalog With Your Marketing Automation Platform 

To maximize the effectiveness of your WhatsApp Catalog, you can integrate it with marketing automation platforms like Chatbot.team. This allows you to automate responses, provide instant support, and offer personalized product recommendations.

Integrating your WhatsApp Business catalog with Chatbot.team streamlines your sales and customer service processes. Here’s how to do it in a few simple steps:

1. New Number Onboard as WhatsApp Business API

First, you must onboard a new phone number as a WhatsApp Business API. This allows your business to use advanced features and automation capabilities.

2. Our Salespersons Will Help You

Our dedicated sales team will assist you through the onboarding process. They will guide you on how to set up your account and integrate it with the WhatsApp Business API.

3. Create a WhatsApp Business Cart

With the help of our salespersons, you will create a WhatsApp Business Cart. This cart allows you to add multiple products, making browsing and purchasing through WhatsApp easier for customers.

4. Choose the “Add to Cart” Option

Customers can easily choose the “Add to Cart” option when browsing your products in the WhatsApp catalog. This feature boosts the shopping experience by allowing them to compile a list of desired items before making a purchase.

5. Connect with the Customer Success Team for Automation

Our customer success team will contact you after setting up your WhatsApp Business Cart. They will assist you in automating the WhatsApp Business Catalog with the Chatbot team. This integration helps automate responses, manage customer interactions, and streamline your sales process.

How to Check Out from the WhatsApp Catalog

Viewing and sharing your WhatsApp Business Catalog is essential for engaging with customers and encouraging your products effectively. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:

Using WhatsApp Pay 

Integrating WhatsApp Pay with your catalog enhances the shopping experience by allowing customers to view, share, and pay for products seamlessly. Here’s how to do it in easy steps:

1. Open the WhatsApp Application

You have to launch the WhatsApp Application to start the process.

2. Access WhatsApp Setting

Now, you have to tap on the Setting option to proceed.

3. Navigate to the Payment

Afterward, go to the Payment option, hit it, and follow the instructions to link your bank statement. 

4. Launch the WhatsApp Business App

Open the WhatsApp Business app on your smartphone and navigate to the chat where you want to share the catalog.

5. Share the Catalog

Tap the share icon within the catalog interface. Choose the chat or contact to share the catalog or selected products directly.

Using Payment Gateways

Integrating payment gateways with your WhatsApp catalog makes transactions seamless for your customers. Here’s how to view and share your catalog using payment gateways in easy steps:

1. Open WhatsApp Business App

Launch the WhatsApp Business app on your smartphone to access your catalog.

2. Access Settings

Tap the three dots in the top right corner and press the Setting option. 

3. Choose the Business Tool option

Now, you must choose the ‘Business tools’ to proceed. 

4. Navigate to Catalog

Go to ‘Catalog’ to view all your products and services available to customers.

5. Browse Products

Scroll through your catalog to see detailed information about each product, including images, descriptions, and prices.

6. Open a Chat with a Customer

Go to the chat where you want to share your catalog and interact with the customer.

7. Attach Catalog

Tap the attachment icon (paperclip) in the chat interface and select ‘Catalog’ from the options.

8. Share Products

After choosing the products, tap the send button to share them in the chat, making it easy for customers to browse.

Wrapping Up! 

The WhatsApp Business Catalog feature offers a powerful tool for businesses to enhance their product visibility, improve customer engagement, and drive sales. Whether using the WhatsApp Business app or the API, setting up and managing your catalog is straightforward and can significantly benefit your e-commerce efforts; integrating your catalog with marketing automation platforms and providing seamless payment options can further enhance the shopping experience for your customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

A WhatsApp Business Catalog is a feature within the WhatsApp Business application that allows businesses to showcase their products or services. Each catalog can contain up to 500 items, including product names, descriptions, prices, images, and links.

Here are some easy steps to create a WhatsApp Business catalog. First, launch the WhatsApp Business Application, then click on the three dots and press the Setting option. After clicking on the Business tool, choose the catalog. Next, click the "Add New Item" option to include products, photos, prices, and links. Lastly, save the catalog item.

Using a WhatsApp Business Catalog offers numerous benefits for e-commerce businesses. It enhances product visibility by making items easily accessible to customers within the chat interface. This feature improves customer engagement, allowing for real-time interactions and seamless shopping experiences. The catalog's setup and management are straightforward, making it user-friendly even for those with limited technical skills.

Yes, you can integrate payment gateways to facilitate seamless transactions. Consumers can add products to their cart from the catalog and proceed to checkout using integrated payment options like WhatsApp Pay or other payment links​.

Yes, creating and using a WhatsApp Business Catalog is free. However, premium features are available for businesses needing more advanced tools.

You can integrate the catalog with marketing automation platforms and chatbots like Chatbot.team to automate responses and manage customer interactions effectively. This helps in providing instant support and personalized product recommendations.​

About Author

Raneya Selina

Raneya Selina

Content Marketing Strategist at Chatbot.team

Raneya is a skilled Content Writer with over two years of experience in customer experience. At Chatbot.team, she crafts insightful case studies and analyzes customer data to develop impactful strategies.

Know more about Raneya Selina

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