Welcome to the Google policies and requirements page! This page is here to provide you with all the need to knows regarding the Google Shopping Policies to help you maintain your compliance during your online business endeavours.
These policies prioritize the safety of customers and compliance with applicable laws. We strictly prohibit any content that could cause harm to customers or negatively impact the advertising ecosystem. This ensures a positive and secure experience for all involved parties. Additionally, Google continuously monitors and updates these policies to adapt to evolving challenges and maintain a high standard of protection.
Shopping Ads Policies
The Shopping ads policies cover four main areas:
1. Prohibited content: This includes content that you arenot allowed to promote on the Google Network.
2. Prohibited practices: These are things that you cannot doif you want to advertise with us.
3. Editorial and technical: These are the quality standards we expect for your ads and website.
4. Restricted content: This refers to content that you can advertise, but with certain limitations.
To enforce these policies, a combination of Google's AI and human evaluation are used. The AI technology, modelled on human reviewers' decisions, helps protect the customers and maintain a safe ad platform. For more complex cases, the Google Merchant Help Center has specially trained experts to review and evaluate the content.
Swift action is taken against content that violates these policies.This may include disapproving violating Shopping ads, temporarily limiting ad impressions for flagged accounts, or suspending accounts for repeated or severe violations.
If any such enforcement actions are materialised due to policy violations, information will be provided on the decision by the enforcer. If one of your Shopping ads is disapproved, you have the option to fix the ad or appeal the decision.You can also appeal an account suspension decision by signing in to your Google Ads account.
Now lets dive into the detail!
Prohibited content:
Counterfeit goods: This policy restricts the sale or promotion of counterfeit products. These are products that mimic the trademark or logo of another brand in an attempt to pass off as genuine.
Dangerous products: Safety is a priority and therefore the promotion of any products that can cause harm or injury in a ny way are not allowed. This includes recreational drugs, weapons, and explosive materials.
Products that enable dishonest behavior: Honesty and fairness is valued, and so these policies do not allow the promotion of products that facilitate dishonest behaviour, such as hacking software or fake documents.
Inappropriate content: These policies strive to provide a respectful and diverse environment for our users. Therefore, restrictions against ads or destinations that display offensive content or promote hatred, discrimination,or violence are in place.
Unsupported Shopping ads content: While the aim is to support awide range of products, there are certain content types that may not be suitable for the desired platforms. The polocies do not allow the promotion of such content in Shopping ads and free product listings.
Prohibited practices:
Abuse of the ad network: This policy wants to ensure that Shopping adsare useful, relevant, and safe for users. Therefore, it does not allow malicious content, traffic generation-focused sites, or any attempts to gain an unfair advantage or bypass our review processes.
Irresponsible data collection and use: Advertising partners are expected to handle user information with care and respect. Collecting user data for unclear purposes or without appropriate security measures is not allowed.
Misrepresentation: Users are entitled to make informed decisions on ads they see, and so promotions that are misleading or deceiving in any way are prohibited. This includes withholding relevant information or representing products inaccurately.
Editorial and technical:
Editorial and technical requirements
The ultimate aim is to deliver ads that are engaging for users without being annoying or difficult to interact with, so editorial requirements have been developed to help keep your ads appealing to users. Technical requirements have also been specified to help users and advertisers get the most out of the variety of ad formats that are offered.
Editorial and professional requirements
In order to provide a quality customer experience, Google requires that all Shopping ads meet high professional and editorial standards.Only promotions that are clear and professional in appearance are allowed and accepted. These ads should lead customers to products and landing pages that are relevant, usefuland easy to interact with.
Examples of promotions that don't meet these editorial and professional requirements:
-A Display URL that does not accurately reflect the URL of the landing page, such as 'google.com' taking users to 'gmail.com'
-Gimmicky use of words, numbers, letters, punctuation or symbols such as FREE, f-r-e-e and F₹€€!!
-Sites that are under construction, parked domains or are just not working-Sites that have disabled the browser's back button
-Sites that are not viewable in commonly used browsers.
Restricted content:
In certain sensitive areas, Google has limitations on the promotion of specific content. While promotions in these areas are allowed, there are additional requirements and limitations. Some examples include adult-oriented content, alcoholic drinks, copyrighted content, gambling-related content, and healthcare-related content.
Please note that these restrictions are specific to Shopping ads and free listings and may not apply to other Google products or platforms.
Healthcare-related content
Google restricts the promotion of healthcare-related content such as over-the-counter medicines, prescription medicines, pregnancy and fertility products etc.
The restrictions that apply to this content may vary depending on the product that you're promoting and the countries that you're targeting. Some content, such as unapproved pharmaceutical supplements, may not be promoted anywhere.
Depending on the content that you're promoting and the countries where your ads appear, you may need to apply for preauthorisation with Google before advertising healthcare-related content.
Gambling-related content
Promotion of Gambling-related content is has been restricted by Google including content such as: national or private lotteries, site offering bonus codes and gambling site promotions.
Copyrighted content
Google restricts the promotion of copyrighted content. If you are looking to promote this type of content and you believe that you are legally entitled to do so, you can get in touch at: https://support.google.com/google-ads/contact/copyright?sjid=17718070613835755354-EU. To learn more about how we handle copyright-related issues or to submit a copyright-related complaint,use this form at: https://support.google.com/legal/troubleshooter/1114905?sjid=17718070613835755354-EU
Alcoholic drinks
The promotion of alcoholic drinks (including drinks that resemble) have been restricted by Google. If promoting alcoholic drinks, you may not:
-Violate applicable laws and industry standards in the respective country of promotion
-Target minors who are under the legal drinking age in the respective country of promotion
-Imply that drinking alcohol betters social, sexual, professional, intellectual or athletic standing
-Suggest drinking alcohol posseses health benefits
-Portray excessive drinking positively.
-Show alcohol being consumed in relation with the operation of a vehicle or machine of any kind, or the performance of any task requiring alertness.
Adult-oriented content
Google restricts the promotion of adult-oriented content including adult merchandise, nudity and sexually suggestive content. If promoting such content, you may not:
-Violate applicable laws and industry standards in the respective country of promotion
-Target minors
-Promote sexually explicit content
-Promote content relating to underage or non-consensual themes
-Promote content relating to sexual acts in exchange for compensation.
Examples of restricted adult content: Sex toys; adult magazines; sexual enhancement products; sexually suggestive lingerie promotions.
Political content
When you promote political content, you must comply with the following requirements:
-Applicable laws and industry standards for any location that you target
-Any applicable election 'silence periods'
Examples of political content: Promotion of political parties/candidates; political issue advocacy.
Trademarks
Shopping ads don't restrict the use of trademarks by merchants in the title or description of an ad when it's for a trademarked product or a product compatible with the trademarked product. Merchants need to reference trademarks to be able to communicate to users what they're offering and users need that information as it's relevant to their searches. Google will review claims by trademark owners that the use of their trademark is likely to cause consumers confusion about the origin of a product. To submit a trademark-related complaint if you're an owner of the trademark, use this form: https://support.google.com/legal/contact/TM_CF_Shopping?product=productsearch&sjid=18277003601237710796-EU
High fat, sugar and salt food and beverages
Responsible advertising of food and beverages is supported. High fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) food and beverages (F&B) Shopping ads are allowed if they comply with our policies. Google considers ads to be promoting the sale of HFSS products when one or more HFSS food items, beverages or meals are promoted in the ad (text, imagery, audio and/or video) or destination site. Specifically, Shopping ads that contain HFSS food and beverages are now prohibited from targeting minors.
The information reflected in this policy is not intended to be legal advice and all merchants and partners are expected to comply with the local laws for any region that their ads target, including local requirements that may differ from this HFSS food and beverages policy.
Happy advertising
Google hopes these policies provide clarity and ensure a positive experience for all. If you have any further questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the Shopping Ads Policies page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/6149970?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU
Free Listings Policies
Are you a merchant looking to showcase your products to a wider audience? Good news! Google has introduced a new policy that allows you to list your products on Google Shopping for free.
Now, you can reach more potential customers without spending a dime. This change aims to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing them with a free platform to increase their online visibility.
So, why wait? Take advantage of this opportunity to connect with consumers and boost your sales without any cost.
Overview of the free listings policies and how to enforce them
To ensure a safe and positive experience for you and other customers, Google uses a combination of automated and human evaluation to enforce these free listings policies. These policies are designed to maintain a healthy digital shopping ecosystem by prohibiting harmful content and promoting transparency. These enforcement methods involve the use of algorithms and machine learning, which are trained to mimic human reviewers' decisions. This helps protect customers and keep platforms safe.
Additionally, the specially trained experts review more complex cases to ensure compliance with these guidelines.
If a listing violates these policies, Google takes action to address the issue. This may include restricting or disapproving the listing so that it is not served to customers. In some cases, Google may limit the visibility of offers for certain accounts or even suspend accounts for repeated or severe violations. Google provides detailed information on why a listing violates such policies and the reasons for disapproval. If your listing is disapproved or has limited visibility, you have the opportunity to fix the issues or appeal the decision. Additionally, if your account is suspended, you can also appeal the suspension through Merchant Centre.
Google encourages you to monitor your listings and ensure compliance with the policies to maintain a positive experience for all customers. If you come across any policy violations while using the platform, Google has a reporting system in place for you to report such violations. By working together, we can create a trustworthy and transparent shopping environment.
Prohibited content / Prohibited practices / Editorial and technical requirements / Restricted content
For information on the content restrictions for free listings, please refer to the relevant section under the Shopping ads policies where these have been discussed in great detail and clarity.
Site Requirements
Make sure your website meets the site requirements set by Google to ensure a quality customer experience. To ensure that your listings are eligible and meet the necessary standards, here are three important factors to consider:
1. Data Quality: It's crucial that your product data is accurate, up-to-date, and complete. Make sure to provide all the necessary information, such as product descriptions, prices, availability, and shipping details. This will help customers make informed purchasing decisions and reduce the likelihood of returns or dissatisfied customers.
2. Image Guidelines: Visual representation plays a significant role in attracting customers. Ensure that your product images are of high quality, properly sized, and showcase your products in the best possible light. Follow Google's image guidelines to ensure that your images meet the required specifications and are visually appealing to potential customers.
3. Product Identifiers: Google requires that eligible products have unique product identifiers, such as GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers), MPNs (Manufacturer Part Numbers), or brand names. These identifiers help Google match your products with relevant search queries and provide accurate information to customers. Ensure that your product data includes these identifiers to improve the visibility and discoverability of your listings.
About this policy
To ensure compliance with this policy, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the guidelines and requirements outlined by Google. Google has implemented a set of policies that apply to all promotions on the Google Network, including free listings. These policies are in place to create a safe and positive experience for users. As an advertiser, it is your responsibility to adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and Google's policies.
Policy enforcement is a crucial aspect of Google's free listings. When content violates the requirements set forth by Google, it may be blocked from appearing. In cases of repeated or egregious violations, Google may even stop you from listing with them. This emphasizes the importance of understanding and complying with the content guidelines and quality requirements.
Eligibility criteria also play a role in free listings. Advertisers must meet certain requirements to be eligible for listing their products and websites on Google. It is important to review and ensure that your business meets these criteria.
Additionally, data feed plays a significant role in the quality of your listings. Google relies on the data feed you provide to display accurate and relevant information to users. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain accurate and up-to-date data feeds to meet Google's quality requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I optimize my product listings to increase visibility in free listings?
To increase product visibility and improve rankings, optimize your product listings by using relevant keywords, detailed descriptions, high-quality images, and accurate pricing information. Maximize reach and increase exposure by regularly updating and promoting your listings.
Are there any limits on the number of products I can list for free?
Yes, there are limits on the number of products you can list for free. However, by implementing effective listing restrictions, pricing strategies, competitor analysis, product description optimization, and inventory management, you can maximize your visibility and reach more potential customers.
Can I list products that are currently out of stock or discontinued?
Yes, you can still list products that are out of stock or discontinued. However, it's important to manage them properly by offering backorder options, pre order availability, product availability notifications, and implementing strategies for handling out of stock items.
Is there a specific format or template I should follow when creating my product listings?
When creating your product listings, it's important to follow a specific format or template. Include a detailed product description, highlight key features, set a competitive pricing strategy, showcase positive customer reviews, and end with a compelling call to action.
Are there any restrictions on the types of images or videos I can include in my product listings?
There are image guidelines and video restrictions for your product listings. Make sure your creative content follows the guidelines and restrictions provided. Content moderation is important to maintain the visual presentation of your listings.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Google's free listings policy is a game-changer for merchants looking to showcase their products and reach a wider audience.
With this policy, businesses can list their products on Google Shopping without any cost, providing them with a valuable platform during these challenging times.
This initiative by Google aims to support merchants and make it easier for consumers to find the products they need.
By offering free listings, Google is helping retailers and consumers connect and thrive in the digital marketplace. If you have any further queries or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the Free Listings Policies page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/12073010?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU
Buy on Google Policies
Unsupported Buy on Google content
Certain products and services are not supported for promotion or sale in Buy on Google. All Shopping ads policies apply, as per Google Terms of Service. It’s important to review both the Shopping ads policies and the following list to ensure your products and services meet the outlined policies:
- Custom or personalized products
- Bundled service plans
- Used or refurbished products
- Final Sale Items
- Preorder Items
- Digital goods and subscriptions
- Software (CDs and DVDs including downloadable software; video game DVDs allowed)
- Items requiring in-store activation
- Items sold by marketplace sellers
- Items that require scheduled delivery, or delivery by freight
- Parts necessary to the functioning of a vehicle (vehicle accessories are allowed)
- Products with age and/or ID verification requirements
- Gift cards
- Rare, scarce or valuable metals or stones
Additional Buy on Google-specific requirements
Products in the categories below are supported on Buy on Google, but Buy on Google has different policies for displaying these products than Shopping ads does.
- Hazardous materials
- Pricingand payments
- Consumer traffic solicitation
- Imageswith promotional messages
- Product availability
If you have any further queries or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the Buy on Google Policies page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/3092435?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU
Promotions Policies
Are you looking to enhance your promotions policies? This section will guide you on how to add value and adhere to Shopping ads policies.
It will highlight how to meet editorial requirements for titles and follow redemption requirements. In addition, also help you avoid overly restrictive promotions, make the confirmation of promotion receipt clear and show you how to include redemption codes for delivery promotions.
Finally, it discusses local and combined promotionspolicies.
Add value
Promotions can't be equal to or more than the basket value. It is important for promotions to add value to the purchase by providing a monetary discount or an additional product or service that is not normally associated with the purchase.
This ensures that customers feel like they are getting a good deal and encourages them to make a purchase. However, it is crucial to avoid promotions that are equal to or more than the basket value, as this would essentially result in the customer getting the product for free or even making a profit.
Such promotions would not be sustainable for the business and could potentially lead to financial loss. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully consider the value that a promotion adds to the purchase in order to maintain a fair and profitable business model.
Adhere to Shopping ads policies
To ensure compliance with Shopping ads policies, it's important to familiarize yourself with the restrictions on showcasing certain products or services in your ads or free listings.
Google has specific policies in place to maintain the integrity of its platform and protect users from potentially harmful or misleading content. These policies are designed to ensure a safe and trustworthy shopping experience for all users.
By adhering to these policies, you can avoid potential penalties or removal of your promotions. It is crucial to carefully review the Shopping ads policy restrictions to understand which products or services are not allowed to be advertised.
This will help you create ads and listings that are in accordance with Google's guidelines and ensure the success of your advertising campaigns.
Adhere to editorial requirements for titles
Make sure you adhere to the editorial requirements for titles. Clearly state any minimum thresholds, redemption requirements, additional charges, and restrictions of the offer. When creating promotion titles, be concise, accurate, and transparent. Clearly state any minimum thresholds or items needed for the deal, as well as any redemption requirements. Include billing expectations, additional charges, and any minimum purchase limits that may apply. It is crucial to clearly state the conditions and any restrictions or limitations of the offer. Avoid attempting to trick or mislead customers, and do not keep additional fees hidden until checkout. By following these editorial requirements, you can ensure that your promotion titles are clear, honest, and in compliance with the guidelines.
Follow redemption requirements
Ensure you meet the redemption requirements by following the guidelines for sign-up, membership, and survey participation.
When redeeming a promotion, it is important that retailers do not impose any deal-specific costs that do not apply to non-deal purchases. Customers should not be subjected to fees that are not applicable to those who do not redeem a promotion.
Additionally, if a website requires phone number verification for the promotion, the details of the promotion should be clearly displayed on the product landing page or the checkout page before users are asked to sign up. Promotions should be redeemable without any unspecified additional user requirements.
Retailers should not impose additional requirements, such as signing up for a store card, paid membership, or taking asurvey, in order to redeem the promotion. It is crucial to adhere to these redemption requirements to ensure a fair and transparent promotional experience for all users.
Avoid overly restrictive promotions
Remember, don't limit promotions to only specific groups or payment methods that differ from your usual restrictions. It is important to ensure that promotions are accessible to all customers.
Overly restrictive promotions can exclude certain groups or individuals, which goes against the principle of fairness. For example, offering discounts exclusively to teachers or seniors may alienate other customers. Similarly, promotions tied to specific payment methods can be exclusionary to those who do not have access to those methods.
Make promoted products clear to the shopper
Moving on to the next subtopic, it's important to make promoted products clear to the shopper.
As mentioned in the background information, when a promotion is limited to specific products, it should only be applicable to those particular products mentioned in your products feed. This ensures that customers can easily redeem the promotions for all eligible products without any confusion or misunderstanding.
Additionally, bundled promotions should clearly disclose all items included in the bundle. If a combination of products is required to qualify for the promotion, the title should clearly state all the products that must be added.
Make confirmation of promotion receipt clear
When customers receive promotions, it is important to clearly confirm their receipt. This confirmation should be provided at the point of purchase, either in the basket or at checkout, rather than on the product landing page.
It is crucial that discounts are not already shown on the landing page, as this can create a negative experience for customers. For example, if a promotion offers £10 off a £100 item, the landing page should still show the item priced at £100, allowing customers to redeem the promotion. Promotions confirmed on landing pages are not considered added value and are not eligible.
The price displayed in your products feed, which is also shown in ads and free listings, must match the price on the landing page.
Additionally, if you are offering free gifts, gift cards, or e-cards, they should be clearly displayed on the product landing pages and also mentioned in the trolley or basket and checkout page. It is important to note that free gift cards for shops other than your own are not permissible, and sample products or trials do not qualify as free gifts. Store credit and reward points are only permissible in monetary value. Therefore, it is crucial to review the guidelines for gifts to ensure compliance with the policies.
Include redemption code for delivery promotions
To be eligible for free delivery with a redemption code, the promotion must be mapped to items priced below the normally offered threshold. This means that if your site already offers free delivery on orders of a certain amount without a code, you can still provide free delivery at a lower amount, but only if customers use a specific code.
However, it is important to note that the promotion should not be tied to items priced above the normally offered threshold. The promotion should only be applied to products that are priced below the threshold amount.
For example, if free delivery is already given fororders of £45+ without a code, and you want to offer free delivery at £35+ witha code, the promotion should only be mapped to items that are priced below £45.
Follow local promotions policies
When participating in promotions, it is important to follow the local promotions policies. These policies are put in place to ensure fairness and transparency for all customers.
One key aspect of these policies is providing avalid promotion URL. This URL should direct to a web page within the same website where users can find the promotion details and the small print forredemption. By including this URL, customers can easily verify the promotion and understand any requirements or restrictions.
Additionally, if the promotion is eligible for kerbside pickup, the promotion URL page should clearly state this information. This ensures that customers are aware that the promotion can be redeemed online for kerbside pickup, providing a convenient option for those who prefer this method.
Following local promotions policies is essential to ensure a positive and fair experience for all customers.
Follow combined promotions policies
You should always be aware of the guidelines for combining promotions to ensure a smooth and beneficial experience for customers.
Some promotions that are not permissible as standalones can become permissible when combined with another promotion that provides additional value. For example, a 10% off on all products with free delivery promotion is allowed with or without a delivery redemption code.
Similarly, a £50 postal or email rebate combined with a £25 instant discount for a £300+ purchase is considered an added value promotion. However, it is important to note that promotions like a free camera lens + 2% rewards or 20% off + Buy one get one free have specific conditions for their combination.
Conclusion
In conclusion, promotions policies play a crucial role in ensuring fair and effective marketing strategies. By adhering to shopping ads policies, editorial requirements, and redemption guidelines, businesses can add value to their promotions.
It is important to avoid overly restrictive promotions and clearly confirm the receipt of promotions. Including a redemption code for delivery promotions enhances customer experience.
Furthermore, following local and combined promotions policies ensures compliance with applicable regulations. By following these guidelines, businesses can maximize the impact of their promotions while maintaining a neutral and unbiased approach. If you have any further queries or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the Promotions Policies page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/2877565?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU
Local Inventory Ads Policies
Looking to advertise your local inventory? This section has got you covered.
In just 75 words, we'll outline the exceptions and additional requirements you need toknow about when it comes to local inventory ads policies. Get ready to discover how to navigate the world of personally identifiable information (PII) and ensure your ads are compliant. So, let'sdive in and learn everything you need to know about local inventory ads policies.
Exceptions
There areexceptions to the Shopping ads policies for local inventory ads. One exception is the requirement for online payment and transaction. Unlike regular Shopping ads, local inventory ads don't require an online checkout and payment option on your site. So, if you don't offer online payment, you don't have to worry about adhering to those policies.
However, if you do offer online checkout and payment, you must follow the website policies, including providing return and refund information. Another exception is related to delivery. Since local inventory ads are designed forin-store purchases and pick-ups, there is no need to provide delivery information. This makes it easier for customers to understand that they need to physically go to your store to make the purchase.
Additional requirements
To participate in local inventory ads, you must have a physical store where customers can visit and purchase items. It is important that you have a local bricks-and-mortar business location where customers can physically come in to view and buy the desired products. If yourequire customers to be a club or shop member to make purchases, unfortunately, you are not eligible to participate in local inventory ads.
However, if you allow non-members to buy at different prices, you can still participate as long as you use non-member pricing and display it on your landing page. Additionally, any additional fees charged at checkout must be included in the total product price. Make sure to follow tax and pricing rules and add any other extra fees to the product price. Remember, your shop's primary purpose should not be to promote products that violate Shopping ads' content policies.
Lastly, you must physically be located in the country where your ads are targeted.
Personally identifiable information (PII)
You shouldn't provide any personally identifiable information (PII) with the data of your customers' local inventory ads. It's crucial to ensure that you don't include any names, email addresses, phone numbers, customer identifiers, payment method information, credit card details, club card codes, or any other demographic information that could potentially identify an individual. Remember, if you accidentally disclose PII to Google, you will be held solely responsible for that breach.
Google, on its part, won't disclose any identifiable information such as timestamps, inventory numbers, quantities, or extended amounts that can be traced back to your company. However, they may share general availability data publicly. It's important to prioritize the privacy and security of your customers' information when it comes to local inventory ads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use local inventory ads to promote services instead of physical products?
Yes, you can use local inventory ads to promote services instead of physical products.It allows you to showcase your services to potential customers in your area, increasing your brand visibility and driving more business.
Are there any restrictions on the types of offers or promotions that can be included in local inventory ads?
There areno explicit restrictions on the types of offers or promotions that can be included in local inventory ads. However, it is important to follow the general policies and guidelines set by the platform.
Is there a limit to the number of products that can be included in a local inventory ad campaign?
There is no limit to the number of products you can include in a local inventory ad campaign. You have the flexibility to showcase as many products as you want tor each potential customers.
Can I use local inventory ads to promote products that are not currently in stock at my physical store?
Yes, you can use local inventory ads to promote products that are not currently in stock at your physical store. This allows you to showcase a wider range of products to potential customers.
What are the specific eligibility criteria for businesses to qualify for running local inventory ads?
To qualify for running local inventory ads, your business needs to meet specific eligibility criteria. These include having a physical store, being approved for local inventory ads, and complying with Google's policies and guidelines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, local inventory ads policies have certain exceptions and additional requirements that need to be followed. If you have any further queries or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the Local inventory ads Policies page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/3271956?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU
Personalised Advertising Policies
Are you tired of being bombarded with ads that have nothing to do with your interests? Well, get ready for a game-changer. Personalised advertising is here to revolutionize the way you consume content.
With this targeted approach, you can say goodbye to irrelevant ads and hello to a more tailored and engaging experience. In this section, we will explore the legal restrictions, personal hardships, identity and belief, sexual interests, and access to opportunities that come with personalised advertising.
So, buckle up and prepare to have your advertising experience transformed.
Legal restrictions
You can't target personalized advertising to children under 13 or to individuals who are under the applicable age in their country. This is an important legal restriction that ensures the protection of young individuals from potentially harmful content.
Advertising that is tailored to a person's interests and preferences can be a powerful tool, but when it comes to young children, it is essential to prioritize their safety and well-being. By restricting personalized advertising to children under 13, we can help create a safer online environment for them and ensure that they are not exposed to inappropriate or harmful content.
It is our responsibility as advertisers to adhere to these legal restrictions and prioritize the welfare of children above all else.
Personal hardships
Experiencing relationship hardships can be challenging, but there are resources available to help navigate these personal struggles.
Whether you're going through a divorce, coping with the loss of a loved one, or dealing with difficulties in your family or friendships, there are services and support systems that can assist you.
Divorce services can provide guidance and legal assistance during this difficult time, while bereavement products or services can help you cope with the loss of a loved one.
Additionally, family counseling services can help you work through any conflicts or issues within your family, and books about coping with divorce or relationship hardships can provide valuable insights and advice.
Identity and belief
Embracing your identity and beliefs is an important aspect of personal growth and self-discovery. In the world of personalized advertising, this notion becomes even more significant.
Whether it's your sexual orientation, political affiliation, trade union membership, race and ethnicity, religious belief, or transgender identification, these aspects of who you are shape your experiences and influence your choices. Advertisers recognize the power of identity and beliefs, tailoring their messages to target specific groups.
They provide information, support, and resources that cater to your unique needs and interests. By embracing your identity and beliefs, you allow yourself to connect with communities that share similar experiences and foster a sense of belonging.
Personalized advertising can be a tool for empowerment, helping you explore and celebrate your individuality while connecting with others who understand and appreciate you.
Sexual interests
Sexual interests can play a significant role in the way that advertisers tailor their messages to target specific groups.
Advertisers understand that different individuals have different sexual preferences and desires. By identifying these interests, advertisers can create personalized ads that resonate with their target audience.
For example, if someone is interested in birth control, advertisers can promote products such as condoms, oral contraceptive pills, or contraceptive sponges. These ads can be tailored to provide information about the effectiveness, convenience, and benefits of each product.
Furthermore, advertisers can also use sexual content to appeal to individuals with specific interests. However, it is important to note that all sexual content must adhere to the guidelines set by platforms like Google Ads to ensure that it is appropriate and respectful.
Access to opportunities
If you want to increase your chances of accessing job opportunities and housing options, it is important to be aware of the restrictions and guidelines set by platforms like Google Ads.
In the United States and Canada, these platforms have certain restrictions on targeted advertising based on sensitive interest categories.
For housing, you cannot target audiences based on gender, age, parental status, marital status, or ZIP code. This includes products or services related to the sale or rental of homes.
Similarly, for employment, you cannot target audiences based on these categories. However, there are some exceptions for government advertisers who can target restricted audiences under specific conditions.
It is also important to follow the policies for data collection and use in personalized ads, such as not collecting personally identifiable information and not using remarketing lists that target overly narrow audiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, personalized advertising has both its benefits and drawbacks. While it allows for targeted marketing and tailored experiences, legal restrictions must be considered to protect consumer privacy.
Additionally, personal hardships, such as financial struggles, should not be exploited for profit. It is important to strike a balance between personalization and respecting individual identity and beliefs.
Furthermore, care must be taken to ensure that personalized advertising does not exploit or expose individuals' sexual interests in an inappropriate manner.
Overall, personalized advertising should be used responsibly and ethically while providing equal access to opportunities for all. If you have any further queries or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the Personalised ads Policies page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/143465?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU#
Vehicle Ads Policies (beta)
Are you curious about the new beta features for vehicle ads? Look no further! This article dives into the requirements for participating in vehicle ads and the exceptions to shopping ads policies.
With the latest updates, you'll discover how these features can enhance your advertising strategy. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the exciting world of vehicle ads beta!
Requirements to participate in vehicle ads
To participate in vehicle ads, you must meet the requirements outlined in the policies.
First and foremost, only non-commercial and passenger vehicles are allowed. Any vehicle that requires a special license to operate or isn't equipped and licensed for use on public roads is excluded. This means that motorhomes, ATVs, motorcycles, boats, and other similar vehicles are not eligible for vehicle ads.
Additionally, vehicles available for lease or subscription cannot be listed for sale. It is also important to note that vehicle auctions and auction pricing are not supported.
Furthermore, vehicle parts, accessories, tires, and services are not allowed in vehicle ads.
Lastly, all vehicles listed for sale must have a clean title, with salvage or lien titles being unacceptable.
Exceptions to Shopping ads policies
Exceptions to the Shopping ads policies include the promotion of light passenger cars and trucks using vehicle ads. Unlike other products, vehicle ads don't need to comply with certain policies.
For example, the requirement to only promote products available for direct purchase doesn't apply to vehicle ads. Instead, these ads can lead customers to complete the purchase in person, allowing them to buy the vehicle directly from a dealership.
Additionally, website requirements regarding online checkout are not necessary for vehicle ads. Since the purchase of a car or truck typically involves an in-store transaction, online payment and transaction requirements are not applicable.
Furthermore, delivery information is not required for vehicle ads, as customers are expected to pick up their purchased vehicle in person.
Vehicle ads beta features
Check out the new features available for advertisers like you in the beta version of vehicle ads!
As a vehicle aggregator, you now have the opportunity to showcase your inventory to a wider audience.
With the online delivery option, you can reach customers who prefer to shop for vehicles from the comfort of their own homes.
And if you're a multi-state or multi-region seller, you can now manage all your listings in a single account, making it easier for you to stay organized and reach customers across different areas.
Even original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can take advantage of these new features to promote their brand and increase visibility.
Don't miss out on these exciting opportunities to expand your reach and drive more traffic to your vehicle ads!
Conclusion
So there you have it, the new vehicle ads policies are now in beta! If you want to participate, make sure you meet all the requirements.
Keep in mind that there are some exceptions to the Shopping ads policies, so be sure to familiarize yourself with those as well.
And don't forget to take advantage of the beta features available.
Happy advertising!
If you have any further queries or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the Vehicle ads Policies page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/11544533?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU
Discovery and Demand Gen Product Ad Format Requirements
Are you looking to boost your discovery and demand generation efforts?
Then you need to know the ad format requirements that will make your products shine. In this article, Google will guide you through the automated content policy decision and quality checks you need to follow.
Google will also outline the specific requirements for discovery and demand gen product ads, as well as the prohibited categories you should steer clear of.
Get ready to take your advertising game to the next level!
Automated content policy decision
You'll be notified if your campaign content triggers an automated content policy decision. To ensure a positive customer experience, Google conducts automated reviews of your campaign content.
During this preliminary review, if any issues or violations are detected, it may lead to the restriction or suspension of your assets. Google may also perform further analysis to make a final decision.
These automated content policy decisions are made to maintain a safe and appropriate advertising environment. If your campaign content is flagged, you will receive a notification informing you of the issue.
It is important to review and address any policy violations promptly to ensure the smooth running of your campaign and maintain compliance with Google's content policies.
Quality checks
To ensure high quality, Google will need to check for clarity, correct spelling, and properly cropped images.
When it comes to discovery and demand gen product ads, it's important that they meet the Google Ads editorial standards. This means that the ads should be clear and easy to understand, with no spelling errors or misuse of capitalization and symbols.
Additionally, the images used in these ads should be of high quality and properly cropped. Blurred, distorted, or poorly cropped images can give a negative impression and make the ad less effective.
Discovery and Demand Gen product ad requirements
To assess any asset-level disapprovals in your account: in your Merchant Center account, click Products from the navigation menu on the left., click All products, then locate your product on the page and check the 'Status' section of the table to view that product's current approval status.
Prohibited categories
Avoid using any assets that depict or reference regulated goods, weapons, criminality, cash giveaways, improper content, negative events, addiction recovery, death-related content, triggering content, discrimination, or actions that violate other platforms' Terms and Conditions.
These prohibited categories include assets that showcase recreational drugs, tobacco, or alcohol. Additionally, assets featuring images of weapons or criminality, such as guns, firearms, or explosives, are not allowed. Cash giveaways and improper content, including sexually suggestive or invasive medical procedures, are also prohibited.
Negative life events like divorce, financial difficulties, or accidents should be avoided. Assets that depict addiction recovery, death, or triggering content are not permitted. Lastly, assets promoting discrimination or actions that violate other platforms' terms are strictly prohibited.
Other prohibited categories include: dating-related prohibitions, implied interactivity, selfie images, unclear images, offensive language and confusing text.
Adhering to these guidelines will ensure compliance with the ad format requirements.
Conclusion
So there you have it! These are the requirements for discovery and demand gen product ad formats.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your ads meet the necessary quality checks and comply with content policies.
Remember to avoid prohibited categories and make use of automation to make informed decisions.
By doing so, you'll be well on your way to creating effective and engaging product ads that drive demand and generate results.
Keep these requirements in mind as you develop your next ad campaign! If you have any further queries or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the Discovery and Demand Gen product ad format requirements page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/13389785?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU
YouTube Shopping Ads and App Ad Requirements
Are you looking to promote your products or apps on YouTube? Then you need to know about the requirements for YouTube shopping ads and app ads.
In this section, we will guide you through the automated content policy decision process, the quality checks you need to pass, and the prohibited categories you should avoid.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your ads meet the necessary criteria to reach your target audience effectively.
Automated content policy decision
Our automated system uses algorithms and machine learning to make content policy decisions. This system helps ensure that YouTube Shopping ads and app ads comply with the necessary policies.
By using advanced technologies, our system can model the decisions made by human reviewers, providing a consistent and efficient way to protect our customers and maintain a safe ad platform.
The algorithms and machine learning enable us to handle a large volume of content, quickly identifying any potential violations and taking appropriate action. However, in more complex or severe cases, our specially trained experts step in to review and evaluate the content.
This combination of automation and human expertise allows us to maintain a high level of quality and safety across our ad platforms.
Quality checks
To ensure compliance with Google Ads editorial standards, it's important to have clear, well-cropped, and unobstructed images in YouTube Shopping ads and app ads. Blurred, distorted, incomplete, unclear, or poorly cropped images are not allowed. Additionally, images that contain overlaid elements are also prohibited.
These requirements are in place to maintain the quality and professionalism of the ads displayed on YouTube and other apps. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your ads are visually appealing and effectively convey your message to potential customers.
It is crucial to carefully review and check your images before submitting them for your YouTube Shopping ads and app ads to avoid any potential violations and to ensure that your ads meet the Google Ads editorial standards.
Prohibited categories
Ensure that you do not include any prohibited categories in your YouTube Shopping ads and app ads. It is important to avoid uncomfortable content such as pornography, sexually suggestive material, or nudity. This includes promoting sex toys, erotic DVDs, or sexually suggestive lingerie. Additionally, avoid displaying visible genitalia, female breasts, or bare buttocks.
Another prohibited category is content that contains gratuitous portrayals of invasive medical procedures, bodily fluids, or disgusting and shocking content. This includes dental procedures, images of organs or blood, and animal and meat products.
It is also crucial to steer clear of advertising dating offers or intimate meetings, cash giveaways, violent or criminal content, inappropriate substances, misery or unhappy events, media content with gory content, political content, and gambling-related content.
Conclusion
In conclusion, YouTube shopping ads and app ad requirements are crucial for ensuring the quality and appropriateness of content on the platform.
With automated content policy decisions and quality checks, YouTube aims to prevent the promotion of prohibited categories and maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for users.
By adhering to these requirements, advertisers can effectively reach their target audience while upholding the integrity of the platform.
So keep these guidelines in mind when creating your ads and contribute to a positive and engaging YouTube community.
If you have any further queries or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the YouTube Shopping ads and app ad requirements page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/13425252?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU
Product Ratings Policies
Are you a retailer looking to improve your product ratings? Then you need to know about the new policies that Google has put in place.
In order to be successful, you must share all your reviews with Google through monthly updates and ensure that your review feeds adhere to their content policies. It's important that your review feeds are high quality and collected and owned by you, the retailer.
Additionally, user-generated images in product reviews can greatly enhance your ratings.
Read on to find out how to request a review for any product ratings issues you may be experiencing.
Retailers must share all their reviews with Google through monthly updates
You must share all your product reviews with Google through monthly updates, unless told otherwise, to ensure transparency and eligibility for product ratings.
It is crucial to provide shoppers with a complete and honest picture of your products, including both positive and negative feedback. By sharing all your reviews, you enable shoppers to make informed decisions based on the experiences of others.
Additionally, sending your full reviews feed at least once a month helps to keep the information fresh and relevant for shoppers researching a product. This way, they can trust that the reviews they are reading are up-to-date and reflect the current state of your products.
Failure to update your reviews regularly or to actively collect new reviews may result in your feed being considered stale, and you may lose eligibility to participate in product ratings.
Review feeds must adhere to content policies
In order to comply with content guidelines, reviews in the feed should be free from any prohibited content. This means that you must ensure that your reviews do not contain:
-Spam, dangerous products or acts, phone numbers, email addresses or URLs
-Personal and confidential information
-Obscene, profane or offensive language
-Scenes of violence, serious injury or death
-Personal attacks, defamatory statements
-Conflicts of interestIllegal content, malware or phishing links
-Copyrighted content, trademark infringement, plagiarism
-Automated contentSexually explicit materialHate speech
-Cross-promotion of other products/websites
-Off-topic reviewsImpersonationUnoriginal language
-Duplicate content
It is important to review the policies in detail and make sure that your reviews meet all the requirements.
Review feeds should be high quality
By submitting high-quality reviews, you can positively influence shoppers' buying decisions. When shoppers are researching a product, they want reviews that are relevant and provide value.
So, it's important to make sure your reviews are informative and not just filled with meaningless content. Reviews like 'luv it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :):)' are considered low quality because they don't provide any relevant information. These low-quality reviews may not even be shown to shoppers.
To ensure your reviews meet the standards, avoid using boilerplate text or non-functional content. Additionally, don't convert a review system with fewer than five stars to a five-star review system.
Review feeds should be collected and owned by retailers
When collecting and sharing review feeds, it is important for retailers to own and manage them directly. This allows for control over the reviews shared with Google. Retailers can collect the reviews themselves or use an approved third-party aggregator. However, it is best to avoid using reviews that are syndicated from other sources.
There are a few exceptions to this policy. If the e-commerce site is hosted by an online marketplace that collects and shares reviews for retailers, those reviews may be eligible for use. Additionally, if a business manages accounts on behalf of a retailer, the managed accounts can share reviews with Google.
In cases where there are multiple subsidiaries and it is not possible to assign review ownership to each one, a single review feed can be sent for all of them. Lastly, retailers participating in product ratings through Google Customer Reviews are exempt from this policy.
User-generated images in product reviews
User-generated images in reviews must adhere to Google's content and quality criteria.
When it comes to submitting images for product reviews, there are certain do's and don'ts to keep in mind.
Firstly, make sure to submit high-quality photos that are clear and not blurry. It's also important to use images that your customers have taken themselves, as this adds authenticity to the review.
Avoid using images that contain irrelevant content or promotional material. Additionally, minimize the use of filters and avoid including distracting or irrelevant text overlays.
If you come across any images that you feel are irrelevant or low quality, you can provide feedback and report them to Google.
Request a review for your product ratings issues
To resolve any issues with your content disapproval, you can request a review and if successful, your problem will be resolved.
If you have encountered any problems with your product ratings, requesting a review is the best course of action. When you request a review, our team will carefully assess your content and determine if the disapproval was warranted or if it can be overturned.
This review process allows us to address any concerns or disagreements you may have regarding your product ratings. If the review is successful, your ratings will be reinstated and the disapproval will disappear.
However, if the disapproval remains and you are unsure of how to proceed, don't hesitate to contact us for support. We are here to assist you in resolving any issues you may encounter with your product ratings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it's important for retailers to adhere to Google's product ratings policies. By sharing all their reviews with Google, retailers can ensure that their review feeds are of high quality and meet content policies.
It's also crucial for retailers to collect and own their review feeds. This ownership allows retailers to have control over the reviews and ensures that they can manage and respond to customer feedback effectively.
Additionally, including user-generated images in product reviews can enhance the credibility and usefulness of ratings. Images provide visual evidence of the product's quality and can help potential customers make informed purchasing decisions.
If retailers encounter any issues with their product ratings, they shouldn't hesitate to request a review. Google offers a process for retailers to address any concerns or disputes regarding their ratings.
Overall, retailers should prioritize following Google's product ratings policies, collecting and owning their review feeds, and utilizing user-generated images to enhance the credibility of their ratings. By doing so, retailers can build trust with customers and drive sales.
If you have any further queries or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out and visit the Product ratings Policies page on the Google Merchant Help Centre at: https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/6098512?hl=en-GB&ref_topic=9212502&sjid=17718070613835755354-EU#
Disclaimer
Please note that this policy page is strictly for information only and should not be taken as the full or most up to date Google policy information. For further detail, or clarity on the latest details, please visit the Google Merchant Help Center.