Pinterest collaborates with 'Real Simple' for innovative shoppable magazine feature

Exciting Collaboration:

Pinterest and "Real Simple" magazine have teamed up to create the magazine's first shoppable issue. This special edition is packed with products handpicked by the editors and is centered around the theme "Best & Brightest."

Central to the experience is the use of QR codes within each section of the issue. Consumers can simply scan the codes to be directed to a Pinterest board with over 120 items available for exploration and instant purchase. Almost every page of the issue is designed to be shoppable.

This initiative is currently available on RealSimple.com and on Pinterest's exclusive shoppable board. It will also be featured in the June issue of the publication, set to hit newsstands on May 17. Pinterest's latest move is part of their ongoing efforts to collaborate with publishers.

Pinterest and "Real Simple" Collaboration

Pinterest is showing its commitment to publishers by partnering with "Real Simple," a move that could give the platform a competitive advantage and showcase its role beyond just being a source of inspiration. According to internal data from December 2023, more than half of users visit Pinterest with the intention to shop, thanks to its personalized recommendations. Moreover, with over six billion searches per month and 518 million monthly active users worldwide, Pinterest continues to solidify its position as a prominent online platform.

The latest issue of "Real Simple" called "Best & Brightest" showcases Busy Philipps on the cover, along with product recommendations and profiles of inspiring individuals. Readers can use QR codes in the magazine to access a Pinterest board, where they can view and buy the featured items easily.

The Pinterest boards are arranged according to the sections in the magazine, with similar images for a cohesive experience. If you're not ready to buy right away, you can save items to your own Pinterest boards to revisit later.

Pinterest's latest move highlights its focus on original content and global partnerships with Dotdash Meredith, Tastemade, Condé Nast Entertainment, and Westbrook Media. Additionally, the company introduced the Red Standard program last year to reward top publishers with incentives like funds for sponsored Pins and distribution cost offsetting. "Real Simple" was part of this program, generating over 130 million impressions.

CEO Bill Ready described Pinterest's recent Q1 earnings as a "milestone quarter," with a 23% increase in year-over-year revenue totaling $740 million. The growth is credited to improvements in shoppability and artificial intelligence, as well as the platform's appeal to Gen Z, which now makes up over 40% of its users and is its fastest-growing demographic.

Editor's P/S:

The collaboration between Pinterest and "Real Simple" marks a significant step in the evolution of content consumption and e-commerce. By seamlessly integrating shoppable QR codes into the magazine, readers can now effortlessly discover and purchase products featured in the publication. This innovative approach enhances the user experience, allowing them to seamlessly transition from inspiration to purchase without leaving the magazine's pages.

Moreover, Pinterest's strategic partnerships and initiatives, such as the Red Standard program, demonstrate their commitment to supporting publishers and creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem. As Pinterest continues to expand its shoppability features and attract new users, it positions itself as a formidable competitor in the online retail space. The platform's focus on curated content, personalized recommendations, and growing Gen Z user base make it a valuable destination for both consumers and brands seeking to engage with a highly receptive audience.