shop (.shop)

.shop is a generic top-level domain meant for online stores and ecommerce sites. It is run by GMO Registry, Inc., a company based in Tokyo, Japan. Originally delegated in May 2016, .shop was one of the more contested new gTLDs, facing multiple applications during ICANN's expansion. GMO Registry won the contention and launched it as an open domain with no strict eligibility rules, meaning anyone can register a .shop name. The registry operates its own name servers and WHOIS service at whois.nic.shop. Because it is unrestricted, both small sellers and large retailers use it. For ecommerce sites looking for a memorable address, .shop offers a clear signal of purpose right in the URL.