The Pinterest photo app wants to become more of a shopping platform internationally. After the U.S. and U.K., the company’s shopping functions will now also be available in Australia, Canada, France and Germany later this year. Users will thus have the opportunity to buy products directly via pins, pinboards and search results. The Pinterest Lens Camera can also be used to buy “real-world inspiration online in an instant.” Shopping Spotlights, which feature expert recommendations and favorite trends from well-known fashion and home decor creators and publishers, provide additional inspiration. Pinterest is also launching its Shopping Lists, albeit initially only in the U.S. and U.K. Bookmarked product pins can be automatically saved to this list so users can purchase the items at a later date. Pinterest users will also get a notification when products they have saved are on sale. In addition, Pinterest is expanding its current suite of merchant tools to support merchants of all sizes. The Verified Merchant Program is rolling out in the U.K., Australia, Canada, France and Germany. The merchant storefront in the profile and new product markers will also be available in those countries. Dan Lurie, global head of shopping products at Pinterest, reports that the Covid-19 pandemic has seen a significant increase in shopping usage on Pinterest. Fashion and home decoration have been among the most popular product groups.
