# Expand

Use `$expand` to include supported embedded collections in a Catalog API response.

The current OpenAPI specification documents `$expand` for selected Catalog endpoints. It is not documented in the current DAM OpenAPI specification.

## When to use `$expand`

Use `$expand` when an integration needs related data together with the main resource.

For example, a product response may include information about related variants when the endpoint supports expanding that collection.

## Syntax


```text
$expand=EMBEDDED_COLLECTION_NAME
```

Example:


```http
GET https://api2.saleslayer.com/catalog/rest/Catalog/Products?$select=prod_ref,prod_title&$expand=Variants
```

## Supported expansions

Supported expansions depend on the resource and endpoint.

Use metadata endpoints to understand available relationships:


```http
GET https://api2.saleslayer.com/catalog/rest/Catalog/Products/$metadata
GET https://api2.saleslayer.com/catalog/rest/Catalog/Categories/$metadata
```

## Notes

* Embedded collections are not included unless requested.
* The migrated source documentation states that embedded collections are supported, while embedded individual resources are not documented as supported.
* Expanding related data can increase response size; combine it with `$select` and pagination where appropriate.