When reviews near you say "item not available", customers waste trips. If you keep your items in stock, show what you have on your listing. Keep that list up to date. A customer who knows you have it is more sure about coming.
Gurpreet runs a hardware and paint shop on a main road. Reviews of shops nearby said "they never have the size I need" and "wasted my time".
Gurpreet keeps a full range of pipes and fittings. But nobody could see that from his Google listing.
He added his main product groups with photos to his listing. He also wrote "Call to check stock" with his number.
This is an example, with a made up name and business.
Fix it yourself
- Check your own reviews first. If your customers also say items run out, fix your ordering first.
- List your main product groups. Not every item. The groups customers look for, like "PVC pipes" or "baby food".
- Add them to your listing. Open your Business Profile and tap Edit profile. Look for Products or Services and add each group. Our services list guide shows how.
- Add a clear photo for each group. Use your own shelves, not stock photos. See our photos guide.
- Tell people how to check stock. Add a line like "Call or WhatsApp to check stock." Keep your phone number right.
- Remove what you stop selling. An old item on your listing causes the same wasted trip.
Rules to keep
- Show only what you really keep.
- Never say another shop runs out.
- Update the list when your range changes.
Common questions
I have thousands of items. Do I list them all?
No. List the groups people search for. Add a line saying you have more.
What if something runs out for a week?
Answer stock questions honestly on the phone. If a whole group stops, update your listing.
Will this bring more customers?
Nobody can promise that. It helps a customer who needs that item know you have it.