Simple Google Ads Shopping Tweaks That Drive More eCom Sales (Without Increasing Spend)

If you’re running Google Shopping or Search campaigns for an ecom brand, these quick wins can make a noticeable impact. Most brands miss them – don’t be one of them.

1. Got a first-time buyer discount? Promote it in your Shopping Ads

If you’re offering a welcome discount for new customers, make sure it’s actually visible where it matters.

Here’s what to do:

• Log in to Google Merchant Center
• Navigate to Promotions
• Set up a “first-time customer” offer

That discount isn’t helping much if no one sees it. Put it front and centre.

2. Show product star ratings to build instant trust

Social proof matters. Shoppers are more likely to click when they see strong ratings.

Here’s how to get stars showing:

• In Merchant Center, go to Customer Reviews
• Sign up for the Product Ratings programme
• Submit a review feed (or connect a tool like Yotpo or Judge.me)

Heads up – you’ll need at least 50 reviews per product for ratings to appear.

3. Add a countdown timer in your Search Ads

Running a flash sale or limited-time offer? Use urgency to your advantage.

To add a live countdown:

• Create a new Search Ad in Google Ads
• In your headline or description, type {=
• Use the Countdown function to set your offer’s deadline

A ticking clock grabs attention – and drives faster action.

4. Use RLSA to re-engage warm traffic

Someone visited your site but didn’t buy? Don’t let that interest go cold.

RLSA (Remarketing Lists for Search Ads) lets you tailor your ads or bids to past visitors.

Here’s how:

• In Google Ads, go to Audiences > Segments
• Create a segment for users who visited but didn’t convert
• Apply it to your Search campaigns and raise bids for that group

These users already know your brand – give them a reason to come back and buy.