Google restricts a small number of product types from appearing in its network. Most retailers aren't affected, but it's worth knowing the categories that could impact your shop.
Commonly restricted items
These are the restricted categories most likely to affect independent retailers:
- Tobacco
- Items containing or used to facilitate tobacco use
- Electronic cigarettes and vapes
- Some teeth-whitening products
Counterfeit, illegal, and dangerous items are also restricted, as you'd expect.
If you sell any of these, they simply won't appear in Google through Unify. The rest of your catalogue is unaffected.
If you run a pharmacy
Pharmacies have their own rules. Some products are restricted outright, others are allowed with certification.
Not allowed in Google
- Prescription drugs
- Behind-the-counter drugs
Allowed with certification
Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs can appear in Google, as long as you are:
- Licensed by your local pharmacy regulator (in the UK, the General Pharmaceutical Council — GPhC)
- Certified by Google
How to get certified for OTC listings
When you sign up to Unify, we automatically submit a Google certification application on your behalf. Once approved, your OTC products will start appearing alongside the rest of your inventory.
Already with Unify and want to enable OTC listings? Get in touch via the chat in your dashboard and we'll start the application for you.