How WhatsApp Catalogues Are Overtaking Traditional E-Commerce in India

How WhatsApp Catalogues Are Overtaking Traditional E-Commerce in India

Traditional Apps Are Fading

With app fatigue rising and user retention dropping, Indian SMBs are moving from bulky e-commerce platforms to WhatsApp-based commerce.

WhatsApp Catalogues Explained

These are mini online stores inside chat, offering:

• Product images, prices, SKUs
• One-click ordering
• Direct chat-based customer support

Why It Works

1. Frictionless Shopping

• No downloads, no logins
• Everything in chat

2. Best for Tier-2/3 Towns

• High WhatsApp usage
• Low bandwidth and tech barriers

3. Higher Conversions

Quick conversations close sales faster.

4. Low Setup Costs

No hosting or regular app updates.

Real Use Cases

• D2C Brands: Display new launches & handle orders
• Grocery Shops: Send daily inventory lists
• Service Providers: Share time slots & pricing

Feature Comparison

• Launch Time: App – Months | WhatsApp – 1 Day
• UX Barrier: App – High | WhatsApp – Low
• Conversion Rate: App – Medium | WhatsApp – High

Bonus Tip

Combine with CRM, cart system, UPI, and broadcast tools for a complete shopping flow inside WhatsApp.

Final Word

WhatsApp Catalogues represent a revolution in Indian e-commerce. If you sell anything—start the chat today.