- 065 026 1635 / 083 959 4389
- support@shopitlocal.co.za
Shop It Local
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shop It Local?
Shop It Local is a community designed to help local businesses gain meaningful visibility through our managed Facebook communities. We believe businesses deserve more than getting lost in overcrowded advertising groups.
Who can join?
We welcome businesses of all sizes, including home based businesses, service providers, retailers, restaurants, tradespeople, professionals, tourism businesses and entrepreneurs.
Can anyone advertise in your groups?
No.
Advertising is reserved exclusively for approved Shop It Local members. This allows us to maintain a cleaner, higher quality advertising environment where every member has a better opportunity to be seen.
Why do you charge a membership fee?
The membership fee allows us to carefully manage our communities, limit advertising, provide ongoing business education, organise networking events and continually grow the value we offer our members.
How is Shop It Local different from other Facebook groups?
Most advertising groups allow unlimited posting, causing advertisements to disappear quickly.
We intentionally limit advertising to approved members, creating more visibility, less clutter and a better experience for both businesses and customers.
How often may I advertise?
Members may advertise regularly according to community guidelines, which are designed to keep advertising fair and effective for everyone.
Will you advertise my business for me?
You’ll have access to advertise within our communities. From time to time, members may also be featured through business spotlights, promotions and community campaigns.
Can I promote special offers and competitions?
Yes.
Members are welcome to promote specials, seasonal campaigns and competitions provided they comply with our community guidelines.
What types of businesses do you accept?
We welcome businesses that provide genuine products or services and operate ethically.
Are there any businesses you don't accept?
Yes.
We reserve the right to decline businesses that are misleading, fraudulent, illegal or inconsistent with the values of Shop It Local.
Is there a contract?
Monthly memberships may be cancelled according to our membership terms.
Annual memberships are paid upfront and provide additional value
What happens if I cancel?
Your advertising privileges and member benefits will remain active until the end of your paid membership period.
Are the webinars included?
Yes.
Members receive access to educational webinars presented by experienced professionals from a range of industries, at no additional cost.
Do I have to attend the networking events?
No.
They’re included as an optional benefit for members who would like to meet other business owners, build relationships and grow their network.
Can I attend if I'm not a member?
Some public events may be opened to non members from time to time, but member events and benefits are reserved for active Shop It Local members.
Can I join if I'm just starting my business?
Absolutely.
Whether you’re launching a new business or have been operating for years, Shop It Local is designed to help you grow.
Do you guarantee sales or new customers?
No.
While we work hard to maximise your visibility and provide valuable opportunities, business success also depends on factors such as your product, service, pricing, customer service and marketing efforts.
Can I belong to more than one Shop It Local community?
Yes.
As our network continues to expand, your membership may include access to multiple communities, depending on your membership level and the areas you serve.
How do I get started?
Simply choose the communities you want to advertise on, and make payment. You will then use your invoice number as a reference number so your adverts will be approved on your chosen Shop It Local community.
Why don't you allow free advertising anymore?
We believe that this will create more value for our members. Both those advertising and those browsing.
By limiting advertising to committed business members, we reduce clutter, improve visibility for every member and create a better experience for customers looking for trusted local businesses. Our goal isn’t to have the most adverts, it’s to create a community where every advert has a genuine opportunity to be seen. This approach helps protect the value of the community for everyone involved.