Did you know that WhatsApp is no longer just for messaging? Now, you can shop and buy directly through the app without switching between tabs and extra steps. It’s all right there in your chat.

Over 50 million businesses globally, with 15 million in India, are already using WhatsApp Business. It’s quickly becoming the go-to platform for businesses to connect with customers, offering a seamless, personalized shopping experience right from within the app.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to buy on WhatsApp. You’ll learn how businesses can leverage WhatsApp to drive sales, how customers can easily discover and buy products, and how you can make the most of this new shopping experience. 

Whether you're a business looking to tap into WhatsApp’s potential or a customer seeking convenience, we’ve got you covered.

Why Do People Buy on WhatsApp?

WhatsApp isn’t just for chatting anymore; it’s becoming a go-to platform for shopping. Why? Because it simplifies the entire buying process. No more bouncing between apps, browsing endless tabs, or filling out lengthy forms. You can connect with businesses directly, browse products, ask questions, and even make payments, all within the same chat.

The ease of use is one of the biggest reasons people increasingly choose WhatsApp for shopping. You’re not just shopping; you’re engaging with businesses in real time, getting personalized recommendations, and receiving instant updates, all in a secure, trusted space you’re already familiar with. 

And with millions of businesses worldwide using WhatsApp, the variety of products and services available is only growing.

Benefits of Shopping on WhatsApp for Customers:

• Instant Communication: Chat directly with businesses for quick answers and personalized recommendations.
• Secure Payments: Complete transactions securely within the chat using your credit or debit card.
• Real-Time Updates: Get immediate notifications about your order status, from confirmation to delivery.
• Convenient Shopping: Add items to your cart, discuss details with the business, and place your order—no hassle.
• Privacy Protected: Your conversations are private and encrypted, keeping your personal data safe.
• Easy Discovery: You can find businesses and products by category or name, making it simple to find what you need.
• Global Reach: Shop from millions of businesses worldwide, bringing variety and convenience to your fingertips.
• High Open Rate: With WhatsApp’s 98% open rate, your messages will reach customers directly and instantly, ensuring better engagement and quicker responses.

Now that you know the benefits, let’s explore how businesses can leverage WhatsApp to boost their sales.

Also read: Enhancing Customer Engagement: 7 WhatsApp Strategies for E-commerce

How Businesses Can Boost Sales with WhatsApp

WhatsApp is transforming the way businesses interact with customers, offering a direct and personalized channel to drive sales. With its vast user base of 3 billion and powerful features, businesses can engage customers in real time, streamline the shopping experience, and close sales faster—all within the app.

Here’s how businesses can leverage WhatsApp to boost their sales:

• Product Catalogs: Showcase your products directly on WhatsApp. Customers can browse, ask questions, and make decisions—all in the chat.
• Broadcast Promotions: Send personalized offers, discounts, and updates to multiple customers at once, targeting them based on preferences.
• Order Management: You can take orders directly in the chat, track inventory, and effortlessly manage customer requests without leaving the app.
• Seamless Payments: Offer seamless and secure payment options within the chat, making the purchase process quicker and easier for customers.
• Abandoned Cart Recovery: Automatically remind customers about items left in their cart, increasing the chances of completing the sale.
• Business Profile: Build credibility with a well-organized business profile that includes all necessary info—address, services, and contact details—right in the app.

Want to unlock WhatsApp's full potential for your business? Zoko seamlessly integrates WhatsApp with Shopify, making selling directly through chat, managing customer support, and automating sales processes easier. Discover how Zoko can boost your sales today.

With WhatsApp’s potential unlocked, it’s time to look at how to find businesses on WhatsApp.

Also read: Why WhatsApp is Essential for E-commerce Success

How to Find Businesses on WhatsApp: Top Ways

Finding the right business on WhatsApp is now easier than ever. Whether you're looking for a local service, browsing products, or needing immediate assistance, WhatsApp allows you to connect with businesses directly. With a few simple steps, you can discover and interact with businesses that cater to your needs—all within the app.

1. Search by Business Name or Category

WhatsApp allows users to search for businesses by name or category (such as travel, banking, groceries). This eliminates the need for manually searching through contacts or websites, making the process of finding businesses more convenient.

2. Use the Business Directory (Available in Selected Regions)

WhatsApp’s Business Directory helps you find businesses based on location or category. This feature is available in regions like Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Mexico, and the UK. You can refine your search by selecting filters like distance, open status, or catalog availability to locate businesses nearby or within your preferred sector quickly. But since it is not available in India now, let’s explore other ways.

3. Scan WhatsApp QR Codes

Many businesses use QR codes to help customers connect instantly. Just scan the official WhatsApp QR code (if you have it), and you’re ready to start chatting and exploring what the business offers—no need to search for contact details.

4. Explore Business Profiles

Each business on WhatsApp has a detailed profile that includes important information such as their services, contact details, and website. You can view these profiles to quickly understand what the business offers before contacting for further questions or placing an order.

The Best Part: WhatsApp ensures your privacy is protected by processing search queries in a way that cannot be linked back to your account. This means that your searches remain anonymous and secure, allowing you to explore businesses without compromising your personal information.

Now that you know how to find businesses, let’s dive into the steps for buying directly on WhatsApp.

How to Buy on WhatsApp: Step-by-Step Guide

WhatsApp is quickly becoming a powerful platform for shopping. Its simple interface and secure transactions make buying from businesses easier than ever. Here’s your complete step-by-step guide on how to shop on WhatsApp—from discovering businesses to finalizing your purchase.

1. Finding a Business on WhatsApp

Before you start shopping, the first step is finding the right business. As mentioned and discussed before, WhatsApp allows you to connect with businesses through search features and QR codes easily.

2. Browsing the Catalog

Once you’re connected with the business, the next step is to explore what they have to offer. WhatsApp lets businesses showcase their products in an easily accessible catalog. Here’s how to browse the catalog:

• View the Catalog: Tap on the catalog button in the chat to explore the products the business offers.
• Check Product Details: Click on any item to view its description, price, and image.
• Explore More Items: You can scroll through the catalog or request a more specific list of products based on your needs.
• Ask for More Info: If you need more details about an item, just ask the business directly in the chat.

3. Adding Items to Cart

When you’ve found something you like, WhatsApp makes it easy to add items to your cart and keep track of your selections. Follow these simple steps to add items to the cart:

• Select Products: When you find a product you want, tap on it to see its full details and click “Add to Cart.”
• Modify the Cart: If you wish to add more products, just repeat the process. You can add multiple items to your cart at once.
• Adjust Quantities: Some businesses may allow you to change the quantity of items directly in the chat.
• Review Your Cart: Once you've added items, review the cart to confirm the selections.

4. Sending the Cart to the Business

After you’ve finalized your selections, it’s time to send your cart to the business for order confirmation and payment details. Here’s how you can do it:

• Send the Cart: Once you’re happy with your cart, tap “Send to Business” to share your items with the business.
• Confirm Items: The business will review the cart and confirm your order, providing final details like delivery or availability.
• Discuss Customizations: If needed, discuss any adjustments with the business (e.g., colors, sizes, or availability).

5. Finalizing the Order and Payment

This is where the magic happens—confirming your order and securely making the payment. Here’s how to finalize the order and payment:

• Confirm Payment Method: The business will provide you with available payment methods (credit/debit card or payment link).
• Use WhatsApp Payments (if available in your region): You can pay directly via WhatsApp with a secure payment gateway.
• Use External Payment Links (if WhatsApp Payments are unavailable): The business may share a PayPal link or other secure payment options.
• Receive Payment Confirmation: Once payment is processed, you’ll receive a confirmation within the chat.

6. Order Confirmation and Tracking

After payment, the business confirms your order with a confirmation message and estimated delivery date, and you might receive updates on its status. Here’s how to track your purchase:

• Track with Tracking Details: Some businesses provide tracking details directly in the WhatsApp chat so that you can stay updated on your order’s progress.
• Get Real-Time Updates: If the business integrates with a logistics provider, you’ll receive notifications as your order moves through the shipping process.

Now that you’ve mastered the process, let’s examine tips for making your shopping experience smooth and safe.

How to Ensure a Safe and Smooth Shopping Experience: Top Tips

Shopping on WhatsApp can be a convenient and secure way to make purchases, but following a few simple guidelines is important to ensure your experience is smooth and safe. Here are some tips to keep in mind while shopping:

• Only Shop with Verified Businesses: Look for businesses with the Meta Verified badge. This ensures that the business is legitimate and trustworthy.
• Protect Your Payment Information: Use secure payment methods, especially if you’re asked to pay directly via WhatsApp. Ensure the business offers safe payment gateways (like WhatsApp Payments or trusted third-party services).
• Check Product Details Carefully: Always review product details such as price, description, and delivery time before confirming the order. If you have any doubts, ask the business for more information.
• Be Cautious of Unsolicited Messages: Avoid engaging with businesses that contact you unsolicited. Always verify the business first by searching for their official WhatsApp number or scanning a QR code from their official website or social media.
• Use WhatsApp's Block and Report Features: If you encounter suspicious activity or a potential scam, immediately block and report the contact. WhatsApp provides these features to ensure your safety.
• Ensure Clear Communication: Before finalizing the purchase, double-check the details of your order, such as item quantities and shipping address. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings.
• Confirm Payment Receipt: Once you’ve made a payment, ensure the business sends you a confirmation message. Always keep a record of the transaction for reference.

With these covered, here are the best practices businesses should follow to maximize their sales on WhatsApp.

How Businesses Can Maximize Sales on WhatsApp?

WhatsApp is a powerful business tool to engage with customers and drive sales. By leveraging the right strategies, businesses can create a smooth and effective shopping experience that converts leads into loyal customers. Here are some best practices for businesses to maximize their sales potential on WhatsApp:

• Optimize Your Business Profile: Ensure your business profile is complete with up-to-date contact info, a clear description of your services, and easy access to your product catalog. A professional profile builds trust and credibility.
• Use Catalogs to Showcase Products: Set up a catalog to display your products with detailed descriptions, prices, and high-quality images. This makes it easy for customers to browse and make informed purchasing decisions.
• Leverage WhatsApp Broadcast Lists: Use broadcast lists to send personalized messages, promotions, or updates to a group of customers at once. Target your messages based on customer preferences or past interactions for higher engagement.
• Engage with Customers in Real-Time: Be responsive and engage with customers quickly. WhatsApp’s real-time messaging makes it easy to answer questions, solve problems, and guide customers through the purchasing process.
• Use Automation for Routine Tasks: Set up automated replies for frequently asked questions or common inquiries. This saves time and provides instant responses, improving customer satisfaction.
• Follow Up on Abandoned Carts: Contact customers who have added items to their cart but haven’t completed the purchase. Send a gentle reminder or offer a discount to encourage them to finalize their order.
• Request Feedback and Reviews: After completing a sale, ask satisfied customers to leave a review or provide feedback. This helps build credibility and encourages future sales through social proof.
• Make Communication Personal: Personalize customer interactions by addressing them by name and tailoring product recommendations based on their preferences. Building personal connections helps foster loyalty.

Maximize your sales on WhatsApp with Zoko’s powerful features—from automated replies to personalized customer interactions. Zoko helps you optimize customer journeys, streamline orders, and boost conversions easily.

Now that you know the best practices, let’s look at how businesses can overcome the challenges of selling on WhatsApp.

Also read: How to Sell on WhatsApp India in 2025

How Can You Overcome Selling Challenges on WhatsApp?

While WhatsApp offers great potential for businesses, businesses face a few challenges when selling on the platform. These challenges can be easily overcome with the right approach. Here’s how:

1. Limited Functionality for Large-Scale Operations

WhatsApp is an excellent tool for small businesses, but it can be tricky to manage large volumes of orders and customer inquiries for larger operations.

How to Overcome This:

• Use WhatsApp Business API: This feature allows businesses to automate tasks and integrate WhatsApp with other systems for more efficient order management.
• Leverage Chatbots: Set up automated responses for frequently asked questions to save time and handle multiple inquiries simultaneously.

2. Handling Large Customer Volumes

WhatsApp’s conversational nature can sometimes overwhelm businesses when too many customers try to contact them at once.

How to Overcome This:

• Set Business Hours: Let customers know when you are available to respond. This helps manage expectations and avoids frustration.
• Automate Responses: Use quick replies or automated greetings to handle common queries instantly, allowing you to manage customer interactions without getting overwhelmed.

3. Abandoned Carts and Low Conversions

Just like in e-commerce, customers might abandon their cart before completing the purchase on WhatsApp.

How to Overcome This:

• Send Cart Reminders: Use WhatsApp's messaging system to remind customers about the items in their cart gently.
• Offer Discounts: Offer limited-time offers or discounts to customers who abandon their carts, encouraging them to complete the purchase.

4. Limited Payment Options in Some Regions

WhatsApp Payments is still limited to certain regions, which means businesses in other areas may have to rely on external payment methods.

How to Overcome This:

• Use Payment Links: For regions without WhatsApp Payments, share secure third-party payment links like PayPal or Razorpay to facilitate transactions.
• Offer Multiple Payment Methods: To cater to a wider audience, include different payment options, such as bank transfers or credit card payments.

5. Ensuring Smooth Logistics and Delivery

Handling shipping and ensuring that customers receive their products on time can be challenging, especially with WhatsApp as the primary communication tool.

How to Overcome This:

• Integrate with Logistics Partners: Use platforms like Shiprocket to manage deliveries and send real-time tracking updates via WhatsApp.
• Clear Communication: Regularly update customers about the status of their orders, and use WhatsApp to confirm shipping details and track deliveries.

How Zoko Transforms Selling on WhatsApp

Zoko simplifies and amplifies selling on WhatsApp for businesses. With seamless integration with Shopify and powerful features, Zoko turns WhatsApp into a direct sales channel, driving conversions and boosting customer engagement.

• Seamless Shopify Integration: Sell directly through WhatsApp, integrating product catalogs, orders, and customer interactions in one place.
• Shiprocket Integration for Easy Logistics: Streamline COD transactions and order tracking, providing real-time delivery updates to customers.
• AI-Powered Personalization: Use AI to send automated, personalized messages and product recommendations, boosting conversions.
• WhatsApp Payments: Enable secure in-chat payments, making transactions quick and easy for customers.
• Automated Customer Support: Instant responses and automated replies to customer queries, saving time and improving satisfaction.
• Actionable Analytics: Get detailed insights into customer interactions and sales performance, optimizing strategies for growth.

Zoko empowers businesses to leverage WhatsApp as a powerful sales tool with smooth integrations, automation, and data-driven insights.

Success Stories

Zoko has helped businesses unlock the full potential of WhatsApp for sales and customer engagement. Check out our success stories:

1. Animeal’s Growth with WhatsApp Catalogs

Animeal, a pet care business, integrated Zoko’s WhatsApp Catalog with its Shopify store, allowing customers to browse and purchase products directly via WhatsApp. In three months, they generated ₹1 million in revenue with a 35% conversion rate. Zoko’s seamless payment integration made transactions quick and secure, boosting sales and customer satisfaction.

2. Petsy’s Boost with WhatsApp Broadcasts

Petsy, a pet supply store, used Zoko’s WhatsApp Broadcasts to send personalized promotions to targeted customer segments. By leveraging Zoko’s segmentation tools and scheduling features, Petsy saw USD 79,648 in sales over 4 months with a 32% increase in conversions.

Shopping and finding businesses on WhatsApp offers a seamless and efficient way to connect with brands and purchase directly within the app. From browsing catalogs to secure payments, WhatsApp is changing the way customers interact with businesses. Whether you're a small shop or a large enterprise, using WhatsApp as a sales channel can significantly boost customer engagement and drive sales.

Zoko takes this to the next level by helping businesses seamlessly integrate WhatsApp with Shopify. With features like WhatsApp Catalogs, Shiprocket integration, and AI-powered personalization, Zoko makes it easier to manage sales, customer interactions, and payments all within WhatsApp.

Visit Zoko or book a demo today to see how we can help you grow through WhatsApp's power.