How to Advertise Local Products on WhatsApp (Step-by-Step Guide for Small Businesses)

WhatsApp has grown far beyond a simple messaging app — it’s now a powerful digital marketing platform for small business owners, artisans, and local traders. Whether you sell food items, clothing, electronics, or handmade crafts, you can reach hundreds of potential buyers directly through their phones.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to advertise your local goods on WhatsApp using proven marketing steps that help you sell faster, build trust, and grow your brand — all without spending money on ads.

Why Use WhatsApp to Promote Local Products?

WhatsApp is one of the most popular apps in Nigeria and across Africa, making it a great channel to promote local products and services. Here’s why small businesses love it:

📱 Direct access to customers in real time.
💬 Personalised communication builds customer loyalty.
💸 Completely free to use for marketing.
🧾 Product catalogues and auto-replies simplify selling.
🚀 High engagement — people check WhatsApp several times a day.

If you want to reach local buyers effectively, WhatsApp Business is the perfect starting point.

Step 1: Download and Install the WhatsApp Business App

To get started, go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and install the WhatsApp Business app.

Unlike the regular WhatsApp, the Business version includes tools to help you showcase products, reply faster, and analyse customer interactions.

Pro Tip: Use a dedicated business number if possible. It makes your store look professional and separates personal chats from business messages.

Step 2: Set Up a Professional Business Profile

After installation, fill out your business details carefully. This profile acts as your digital identity.

Include:

Business Name: e.g. Kano Fresh Fruits
Profile Photo: Use your logo or product photo
Description: e.g. We deliver fresh, locally grown fruits across Kano State
Business Hours & Location
Website or Social Links (optional)

A complete profile helps build trust and credibility, which is vital when selling online.

Step 3: Create a Product Catalogue

The Catalogue feature allows you to display your goods directly inside WhatsApp — just like an online store.

To create your catalogue:

Go to Settings → Business Tools → Catalogue
Tap Add Product or Service
Upload clear, high-quality photos
Add product name, price, and short description

Example:

Product: Basket of Fresh Tomatoes
Price: ₦3,500
Description: Organically grown tomatoes, delivered same-day within the Kano metropolis.

Your catalogue helps buyers browse your items easily — no need for long messages.

Step 4: Use WhatsApp Status to Promote Your Products

Your WhatsApp Status is like a mini billboard. Every status you post can be seen by all your contacts.

What to Post:

Product images or short demo videos
Limited-time offers or price discounts
Behind-the-scenes clips (e.g., packaging or delivery)
Customer testimonials or reviews

Example:
“Fresh Mangoes 🍋 available today! Only ₦2,000 per dozen. Free delivery within Kano. Order now 👉 080XXXXXXX.”

Post regularly but avoid overposting — 1 to 3 updates per day is ideal.

Step 5: Send Bulk Messages via Broadcast Lists

Instead of creating a group, use Broadcast Lists to send promotional messages to many people privately.

How to do it:

Tap the three dots → New Broadcast
Select your customers
Type your promotional message

Only contacts who saved your number will receive your message, which helps keep engagement relevant and spam-free.

Example:
“Hi Fatima, our new Ankara fabrics just arrived. Get 10% off this week! Tap to view the catalogue”

Step 6: Join and Create Local WhatsApp Groups

Join community or market groups where your target customers hang out — such as local food markets, fashion groups, or home delivery networks.

Or better yet, create your own WhatsApp group for loyal customers. Share new arrivals, discount offers, and helpful tips.

Avoid spamming — post only useful, engaging content.

Step 7: Offer Discounts and Special Deals

Everyone loves a good deal! Create excitement with promotions like:

“Buy 2 baskets, get free pepper!”
“₦500 off for first-time buyers!”
“Refer a friend and earn ₦1,000 credit!”

These small offers encourage people to buy and share your number with others.

Step 8: Share Your WhatsApp Link and QR Code

Make it easy for customers to message you directly.

Use this format:
https://wa.me/234XXXXXXXXXX

You can also generate a QR Code inside WhatsApp Business under Settings → Business Tools → Short Link.

Share your link on:

Facebook & Instagram bio
Flyers, posters, and packaging
Your website

This is a great way to connect offline marketing with online sales.

Step 9: Offer Excellent Customer Service

Quick and polite responses make customers come back.

Use features like:

Quick Replies: for greetings or order confirmations
Auto Messages: for when you’re offline
Labels: to organise chats by “New Order,” “Pending Payment,” etc.

Example:
“Thank you for your order! Delivery will be made within 2 hours.”

Happy customers are your best marketers — encourage them to share your contact with friends.

Step 10: Monitor, Learn, and Improve

Marketing is continuous learning.
Track your performance weekly by noting:

Which posts got the most responses
What time of day is engagement highest
Which offers attracted new customers

Use this data to refine your next campaign.

Key Benefits of WhatsApp Marketing for Local Businesses

Free and easy to set up
Builds personal connection with customers
Works offline and online
Perfect for small-scale entrepreneurs, farmers, tailors, and vendors

Whether you sell in Kano, Lagos, Ibadan, or Abuja, WhatsApp marketing can transform your small business into a fast-growing brand.

Final Thoughts

Advertising local goods on WhatsApp isn’t about spamming—it’s about building relationships, sharing value, and showcasing authenticity.

Start with one step today: set up your WhatsApp Business profile, post your first catalogue, and share your story. Your customers are already scrolling—make sure they see you.