A ton of advertisers jumped on the social network bandwagon before any of the website's users had time to blink, and now there's even a JCPenny Shop on Facebook. It was just a matter of time before marketing became merchandising, giving members of this expansive online community one more reason never to log out of Facebook.
Just in time for the biggest consumer rush of the year, the JCPenny Shop on Facebook is open for business thanks to application developer Usablenet.
Social Media Merchandising
The JCPenny Shop on Facebook Brings Retail to Online Reticulation
Trend Themes
1. Social-media Merchandising - Online retail stores are tapping into social media platforms by creating Facebook shops that offer members an opportunity to shop without logging into their accounts. Retailers are finding ways to incorporate online social community interactions by offering goods and services right on the social media platform.
2. Social Media Marketing - As social networking gains more users, social media marketing efforts have evolved from creating ads to using social media platforms for product placement and online merchandising. Companies are taking advantage of the massive social base to sell their brands through social media networks.
3. Online Shopping - The rise of online shopping has led to the development of online retail platforms like Facebook shops. These stores offer easy and convenient opportunities for users to purchase products directly, and they increase revenue for businesses in a time of increased online shopping.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Retailers are exploring new ways to reach customers online, and social media merchandising provides greater access and direct sales without the need for additional advertisements or content.
2. Social Media - Social media platforms act as a medium for businesses to promote their brands, and online retail stores like Facebook shops offer social media users a convenient way to shop in an interactive online space.
3. E-commerce - The trend towards online shopping has presented e-commerce with opportunities to develop new platforms like Facebook shops, which offer a seamless integration between social media platforms and online shopping.