Rebranding Impact on Google Merchant Centre

Technical Q&A
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1

Hi All!

I’m looking for some expert opinions on what the best practice advice is for rebranding an online store (Store Name/Domain Change).

My store currently niches into Lighting and I want to rebrand it to Lighting & Living. I have a new domain and a new registered business name, everything else can stay the same on the current website apart from some minor changes.

My fear is that the transition might result in some Google Policy Violations such as Misrepresentation (A problem I’ve faced on other stores).

What are the steps I should take to avoid any problems on Google Merchant Centre/Ads? I am thinking of keeping the same account and just making the Business Info updates when the new domain/website is live.

Thanks!

2

I recommend just before you move the domain, is to delete the feed in Google Merchant Center and disable the data feed app in Shopify.

Then migrate your website.

Then re-verify your website in Google Merchant Center.

Then re-name your store name in Google Merchatn Center.

Then re-connect the feed.

3

Hi Emmanuel,

Thank you for the reply/advice!

I will follow those steps in that order.

Cheers

4

Hi Sam,
I would also suggest that you add the new domain in Shopify but keep both domains active within Shopify’s Domains list for a some period.
This approach maintains your store settings and SEO continuity. After setting up the new domain as primary, all internal links will be updated automatically.

5

Thanks Fario!