I understand that Google Shopping has restrictions on digital products such as ebooks, but what about items such as printable greeting cards (where the customer downloads a pdf and prints the card themselves)? I also sell on Etsy and have had digital sales via Google Ads (through Etsy offsite ads), so please can you clarify? Thanks
Topic summary
A seller inquires whether printable greeting cards (downloadable PDFs) are allowed on Google Shopping, noting they’ve successfully sold digital products through Google Ads on Etsy.
Key Response Points:
- Google Shopping generally rejects all digital products
- Rare exceptions exist, but approval is uncommon and unstable
- Products initially approved face high risk of later rejection
Critical Warning:
- Google Merchant Center suspension for digital products can trigger Google Ads account suspension
- Account reinstatement is described as “impossible” once suspended
- Risk significantly outweighs potential rewards
Recommended Alternative:
Use Google Ads text ads instead of Shopping ads for promoting digital goods, as this avoids the Merchant Center restrictions and associated account risks.
Hello Ukartist85, thank you for your question.
Generally, all digital products will be rejected. There are a few rare cases where Google will allow them, but it’s rare. Even if you get approved initially, there is a high risk of rejection at a later stage. The issue now is that if you get your Google Merchant Center account suspended, there is a high chance you will also get your Google Ads account suspended. Getting this fixed is impossible. So don’t risk it, as the risk is too high compared to the rewards.
If you want to advertsie digital goods, stick with Google Ads text ads.