WhatsApp Integration
WhatsApp is the most popular messaging app in Africa. With Strawlo's WhatsApp integration, customers can message you directly from your store to ask about products, negotiate prices, or place orders — all through a familiar app they already use every day.
To get started, go to Marketing → WhatsApp in your sidebar.
Why WhatsApp?
- Customers in African markets prefer WhatsApp for business communication
- Build trust through direct 1-on-1 conversations before a purchase
- Answer product questions in real time to close more sales
- Let customers who aren't comfortable paying online order via WhatsApp instead
- Track all WhatsApp interactions in your dashboard
Setting Up WhatsApp
Step 1: Enter Your WhatsApp Number
- Go to Marketing → WhatsApp
- Select your country code from the dropdown (Ghana +233, Nigeria +234, Kenya +254, South Africa +27, and many more)
- Enter your phone number (without the country code)
Example: For a Ghana number, select +233 and enter XX XXX XXXX
Make sure this is the phone number linked to your WhatsApp account.
Step 2: Business Name
Your business name is automatically pulled from your store settings. You don't need to enter it here — it comes from whatever name you set in Customize Store.
Step 3: Save
Click Save Settings to activate your WhatsApp integration.
Display Settings
Enable WhatsApp Integration
This is the master switch. When turned ON, all WhatsApp features are active across your store. When turned OFF, all WhatsApp buttons disappear from your storefront.
Show on Checkout Page
When enabled, customers see a "Complete order via WhatsApp" option at checkout. Instead of paying online, they can send you their order details on WhatsApp and arrange payment directly with you.
This is great for:
- Customers who prefer to negotiate before paying
- Custom orders that need discussion
- Markets where direct communication builds trust
Note: Turning off the main WhatsApp integration automatically disables the checkout option too.
Product Inquiry Template
Customize the pre-filled message that customers send when they click the WhatsApp button on a product page.
Default Template
Hi! I'm interested in {product_name} ({product_price}). Is it available?
Available Variables
| Variable | What It Becomes |
|---|---|
{product_name} |
The name of the product the customer is viewing |
{product_price} |
The product's price with currency |
Customizing Your Template
Edit the template to match your brand voice:
Formal:
Hello, I'd like to inquire about {product_name} priced at {product_price}. Could you provide more details?
Casual:
Hey! I saw {product_name} for {product_price} on your store. Is it still available? 😊
With size request:
Hi! I'm interested in {product_name} ({product_price}). What sizes do you have available?
The product page URL is automatically appended to the message so you know exactly which product the customer is asking about.
How It Works on Your Store
Product Page Button
When WhatsApp is enabled, a green WhatsApp button appears on every product page. Here's what happens when a customer taps it:
- A popup appears showing the product they're inquiring about
- They tap "Continue to WhatsApp"
- WhatsApp opens with your number and the pre-filled message
- The customer sends the message and you can start a conversation
The interaction is tracked in your WhatsApp analytics.
Floating Store Button
On your store's main pages, a floating WhatsApp button appears in the bottom-right corner. Tapping it opens WhatsApp with a general inquiry message — useful for customers who have questions that aren't about a specific product.
Tracking Inquiries
Your WhatsApp settings page shows:
- WhatsApp Inquiries — Total number of times customers have clicked the WhatsApp button
- Status — Whether the integration is currently Active or Inactive
This helps you understand how many customers prefer WhatsApp communication over direct purchasing.
Plan Requirements
WhatsApp integration is available on Business and Business+ plans.
- Business — Basic WhatsApp features (product inquiry button, floating button)
- Business+ — Premium WhatsApp features with additional capabilities
Premium features are gated to Business+. If you're on Business, you'll see an upgrade prompt when trying to enable them.
Quick Tips
1. Respond Quickly
Customers on WhatsApp expect fast replies. Try to respond within minutes, not hours. Quick responses lead to more sales.
2. Use WhatsApp Business App
If you haven't already, switch to the WhatsApp Business app. It offers quick replies, labels, and business profile features that help you manage customer inquiries.
3. Set Up Quick Replies
In WhatsApp Business, create quick replies for common questions like pricing, delivery times, and availability. This saves you time when handling multiple inquiries.
4. Keep Your Template Friendly
Your inquiry template is the first message a customer sends you. Make it natural and conversational — not overly formal.
5. Enable the Checkout Option
If you sell products that benefit from discussion (custom items, bulk orders, high-value goods), enable the checkout WhatsApp option. Some customers convert better through conversation than through a checkout form.
6. Use the Same Number You Check Regularly
Make sure the WhatsApp number you enter is one you actively monitor. Missed messages mean missed sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do my customers need to install anything?
No. Customers just need WhatsApp installed on their phone (which most already have). Clicking the button opens WhatsApp directly.
Can I use a different WhatsApp number for each store?
Yes! If you have multiple stores (Business+ plan), each store has its own WhatsApp settings with its own phone number.
Does the WhatsApp button show on mobile and desktop?
Yes. On mobile, it opens the WhatsApp app directly. On desktop, it opens WhatsApp Web.
Are WhatsApp messages sent automatically?
No. The button opens WhatsApp with a pre-filled message, but the customer still has to tap "Send." You then reply manually, just like a normal WhatsApp conversation.
Can I track which products get the most WhatsApp inquiries?
Currently, the dashboard tracks total inquiry count. Individual product inquiry tracking is not yet available.
Will the WhatsApp button conflict with other floating buttons on my store?
The WhatsApp button is positioned to avoid conflicts with other UI elements. It appears in the bottom-right corner with proper spacing.
What if I change my WhatsApp number?
Go to Marketing → WhatsApp, update the number, and save. The change takes effect immediately across your store.
Need Help?
If you have questions about WhatsApp integration:
- Email us — support@strawlo.com
- Join our community — Connect with other sellers in our WhatsApp group
- Watch tutorials — Check out our YouTube channel for video guides