Google approves “great” customer service with Trusted Stores program

Google has expanded into the customer service space with the launch of new service Google Trusted Stores.

The free program will rate online retailers according to the reliability of their customer and shipping services for customers to see which merchants offer the best service.

First launched in beta last autumn with 50 stores, the service is now available to all US online retailers. Merchants that deliver a “great overall experience” will display a Google Trusted Store “badge” which will show a graded “report card”.

To address customer service issues, shoppers can opt in to get up to $1,000 lifetime purchase protection whilst Google has also rolled out a dedicated customer service team to help with the service.

According to the internet giant, online home goods retailer Wayfairer increased its sales 2.3% during its participation in the pilot scheme, whilst gifts retailer Beau-coup saw an 8.6% increase.

In a blog post, Tom Fallows, Google Shopping's group product manager, said: “We help customers feel confident, knowing that they're going to be having a great experience and knowing that Google stands behind them if anything goes wrong.”

Last week Google announced that retailers list products under “Shoppng” will have to pay for the service.