In recent months, Instagram has started to push its focus towards expanding eCommerce on the platform. Similar to the tagging function on Pinterest, Instagram will now allow all users to tag products featured in their posts. The changes will start with US users and will then be rolled out worldwide. So, what do these changes spell for creators and affiliates?
Originally only approved creators could tag products in their feeds, so this opens up the platform for eCommerce listings from a wide range of users and businesses. It gives smaller affiliates and companies the chance to reach a wider audience and get their name out there. This is also a free way for brands to get some exposure and will allow them an insight into consumer behaviour as the app will let them know when someone had tagged their product.
Instagram has stated:
“Scored a new pair of earrings from a small business you love? Tag the product in your Feed post so your friends and followers can learn more about the earnings and shop them!! People come to Instagram to share and discover trends and inspiration. Product tagging will make it possible for anyone to support their favourite small businesses, share how they styled their looks along with the products they used, and more.”
This change signals the shift on the platform towards a more retail focused area which gives the app the edge for affiliates in comparison to TikTok for example.
