Leading provider of cloud-based, omnichannel commerce platforms, Lightspeed will integrate Google tools directly into its platform to support independent businesses globally.

With a shift towards shop local, the direct integration between Lightspeed and Google will allow independent retailers to manage select Google tools directly in their Lightspeed commerce platform at no additional cost. 

The new Google integration includes:

  • Google Local Inventory Ads: Retailers can reach local customers with local inventory ads, from directly within the Lightspeed platform. These ads help nearby shoppers know what they have in stock, driving more visits to their physical shop. 
  • Google Smart Shopping Campaigns: Products are eligible to show across all of Google’s properties and reach users wherever, and whenever, they’re searching or consuming content.
  • Google My Business: Lightspeed customers can get and manage a professional Google My Business listing straight from Lightspeed’s commerce platform. Retailers can keep customers up to date with their latest information, whether it’s store hours or Covid-19 safety protocols.

Enabling access to these digital tools directly within the Lightspeed platform is strategically aligned with Lightspeed’s mission to simplify entrepreneurship and level the playing field for independent merchants.

Lightspeed CEO, Dax Dasilva said so much of today’s business starts with a Google search.

“By combining forces, Lightspeed and Google are eliminating the pain points that prevent SMBs from effectively promoting their products online to the communities who prefer to shop local, providing them a springboard to simplify and scale their businesses as they prepare for the welcomed return of in-store shopping,” he said.

Google Canada vice president and country director, Sabrina Geremia acknowledged that small and medium sized businesses have been hit hardest during the pandemic, but there has been a rallying cry to support them.

“Customers are shopping both online and in-store and expect a seamless shopping experience between both. As we look towards recovery, this integration with Lightspeed will provide a scalable solution for Lightspeed merchants of all sizes looking to reach customers in this new omnichannel reality,” she said.

Google My Business and Local Inventory Ad integrations are currently available to all Lightspeed retail customers with Lightspeed’s Smart Shopping Campaign capability available in the coming months.