What is a Discount Popup?
A discount popup is an essential tool that you, as an online store owner, can use to entice your customers into making a purchase.
These popups can appear as soon as a visitor lands on your store, after they've been browsing for a while, or even when they're about to leave without making a purchase.
These popups work as a special promotional offer. They could provide a percentage discount, a buy-one-get-one-free deal, or even free shipping.
This is more than just a discount offer, though. By asking for the visitor's email in return for the discount, you're also growing one of your most valuable assets: your email list.
This allows you to send newsletters, updates, and future promotions directly to interested customers, extending your relationship beyond just one visit.
21 Discount Popup Examples for Ecommerce Stores
Each type of discount popup is designed with a distinct purpose, and understanding these nuances can help you choose the right ones to implement for your specific needs.
Here are the types of discount popups:
- First-Time Visitor / Welcome Discount Popups
- Exit-Intent Discount Popups
- Time-Sensitive Discount Popups
- Seasonal or Event-Based Discount Popups
- Spin-to-Win (Gamification) Discount Popups
- Mystery Discount Popups
- Survey Discount Popups
- Loyalty and Referral-Based Discount Popups
First-Time Visitor / Welcome Discount Popups
Aimed at new visitors, these popups offer a discount on the first purchase in exchange for an email signup or account creation, helping to build the customer database.
Let's take a look at an example of a first-time visitor discount popup from Allbirds:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The chosen image effectively depicts the product in use, which can build a stronger connection with visitors.
- The headline question, "Want 15% Off?" does a good job directing their interest towards the discount.
- Changing the CTA from "SIGN UP" to "Get Discount" can improve clarity and reduce hesitation. "Sign up" may imply a longer commitment, while "Get Discount" directly relates to the immediate benefit, making the action more appealing.
- Stating discount validity below the CTA sets the right expectations, which is crucial to avoid any confusion later on.
Here is another first-time visitor discount popup from Parachute:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The image shows how comfortable the Parachute bathrobe is and showcases a quality lifestyle product.
- The headline offers a clear and attractive offer, such as 15% off your first purchase.
- The call to action (CTA) needs to be emphasized more strongly with a clear button and phrases such as ‘Get Discount’.
- The extra benefits of signing up are mentioned below the headline, which should encourage visitors to subscribe. However, less text prevents the visitor from being overwhelmed.
- Clearly stating the offer validity period and geographical limitation (e.g., ‘Offer valid only in the USA’) close to the headline can help to set the right expectations and avoid any confusion at the checkout stage.
If you'd like to create a popup like the examples above, you can freely clone the popup below:
Exit-Intent Discount Popups
Triggered when a user is about to leave the site, these popups offer a discount to try to convert the user into a customer before they exit, potentially reducing cart abandonment rates.
Here is an exit-intent discount popup example from Art Play:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The image is interesting, but it doesn't highlight Art of Play's core products, such as playing cards, which could confuse new customers. Don't forget to put images of the products on sale in your discount popup.
- The headline stands out with a 20% discount offer before users leave.
- The “Reveal offer” CTA creates curiosity and gives the clue.
- While the simplicity of the popup directs the focus to the offer, adding details about the applicability or terms of the discount can provide greater clarity.
Here is an exit-intent discount popup example from Cupshe:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The popup's minimalistic design includes a bold timer, adding urgency, although the absence of product images could make it less relatable to the brand or product line.
- The headline directly reads, “$3 OFF for you!” It deals with the visitors' plan to leave with the message.
- The "Reveal offer" CTA button is clear and action-oriented, effectively drawing attention with its strategic placement and contrasting color.
- Using a countdown timer popup infuses urgency, pushing the user to act fast. Care should ensure it doesn't feel like a high-pressure sales tactic.
- Including more discount details, like minimum spend requirements or product exclusions, would improve communication clarity and prevent potential customer dissatisfaction.
Feel free to use the following exit-intent popup as a template to create your own!
🌟 Bonus: If you want to see more exit-intent popup example, you have to check this blog: 55 Exit Intent Popup Examples to Increase Conversions
Time-Sensitive Discount Popups
These popups create a sense of urgency by offering a discount for a limited time. They typically feature countdown timers to encourage quick action from the visitor.
Here is a time-sensitive discount popup example from Endy:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The floating bar is elegantly integrated, enhancing the site's aesthetics.
- Displaying the countdown timer prominently is a smart move, creating urgency for decision-making.
- The CTA "Shop now" is effectively direct and strategically placed for increased interaction.
- The concise discount message ensures simplicity and clarity, providing a smooth user experience.
Here is a time-sensitive discount popup example from Grub Club:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The popup shows eye-catching images linking well to the pet food product.
- The headline is fun and clear, immediately telling customers about the saving.
- The brightly colored "TO THE BUNDLE" button is easy to spot, guiding users towards the deal.
- Adding "Limited time offer" to the message makes people act quickly to get the deal.
- Though the popup is fun and clear, a countdown timer might increase urgency and speed up customer action.
Want a similar popup? Use this one as a duplicate and tweak it as needed:
🌟 Bonus: For more ideas on limited-time offers, check out the blog 'Limited-Time Offers: 7 Examples To Increase Your Conversions'. It's a good resource for enhancing conversions!
Seasonal or Event-Based Discount Popups
These seasonal campaigns are timed around specific events or seasons, like Black Friday or Christmas, offering themed discounts to capitalize on increased shopping activity during these times.
Here is a great example of a seasonal discount popup from Ana Luisa:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The popup features clear, attractive visuals of the product on sale, which effectively showcase the items and tie directly into the Mother’s Day theme.
- The headline and subtext "Ending soon! Mother's Day Sale" show discounts increasing as more items are purchased, revealing a sense of urgency and clear benefits.
- The “UNLOCK UP TO 25% OFF” CTA is prominently displayed and stands out with color contrast.
- The tiered discount structure is a good strategy to encourage larger purchases.
- Adding the line “No thanks, I don't want to save” gives users the freedom to refuse the offer. This not only helps your users feel understood and comfortable saying no but also reminds them that they're missing an opportunity by not "saving."
Check out this discount popup example from Cupshe:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The popup uses eye-catching summer images and aligns well with Memorial Day, marking the start of summer.
- The "Memorial Day Sale" headline combined with "Subscribe & Get 20% Off 4Pcs+" explains the deal and how to get it. It highlights the holiday and the benefits well.
- The "Get 20% Off" button ties directly to the subscription action, clearly telling the user how to get the deal.
- The offer's conditions require buying four items or more, which can drive bigger purchases but may not appeal to those wanting less.
- The popup asks users to agree to marketing messages. This is honest but may turn off some people who don't want promotional content.
Need a starting point? This seasonal popup can be cloned for your own use:
Spin-to-Win (Gamification) Popups
Interactive and game-like, these popups invite visitors to spin a virtual wheel to win a discount or a special offer. This can increase engagement and make the shopping experience more fun.
Let's take a look at an example of a spin-to-win popup from Ana Luisa:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The bright and fun spinning wheel makes the popup stand out, inviting users to take part.
- The headline with a chance to "Spin to win a solid gold diamond necklace" offers a unique and exciting value tied to the event.
- The "SPIN TO WIN" CTA is lively and straightforward, encouraging people to get involved and boosting engagement.
- Clearly, showing potential prizes, including discounts and a grand gift, can motivate users to join the game.
- Including "No thanks, I don't want to save" lets users say no easily, respecting their choice.
Here is another great example of a spin-to-win discount popup from Darn Good Yarn:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The colorful wheel design in the popup looks fun and matches Darn Good Yarn’s crafty spirit.
- "Spin to win! Get up to 15% off your order" text tells users what they can win, making it appealing and clear.
- The big “SPIN” CTA grabs attention and invites users to play the game.
- Turning shopping into a game makes visiting the site more fun and engaging.
- Potential discounts are easy to see on the wheel, letting users know what they could win.
If you'd like to create a discount popup like the examples above, you can freely clone the popup below:
Mystery Discount Popups
Mystery discount popups are a fun and engaging method to entice customers to purchase or subscribe to a newsletter. These types of pop-ups are a source of curiosity because users do not know how much discount they will receive until they interact with the pop-up. This can increase form conversion rates because customers are excited to unveil their special offer. Just remember, customers love a good surprise, so make sure the offers are worth their while!
Here is a mystery discount popup example from Blume:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The selected image directly integrates with Blume's brand image, such as the products on sale, display and background, discount code, and design.
- Since this is a mystery discount, using “reveal my discount” as a CTA is a good idea. Also, words such as; unlock, discover, uncover can also be chosen.
- The "nah, I'm good" option showcases a brand that understands its audience's preferences and communication style. This casual tone not only aligns with the youthful and informal voice of the Blume customer base but also subtly emphasizes what the users are passing up, making engaging more inviting.
Need a starting point? This mystery discount popup can be cloned for your own use:
Survey Discount Popups
These popups ask for input or feedback from the user in exchange for a discount, aiding in customer engagement and gathering valuable data from your customers.
Here is a survey popup example from The Honey Pot:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The popup takes the full screen, making for a distraction-free interaction and likely boosting the chances of survey completion.
- A 15% discount is clearly displayed, acting as a strong motivation for users to participate.
- Clearly labeled buttons guide users through the survey, making the process more engaging.
- The popup needs explicit details about the survey, such as the number of questions or estimated time to complete. If you want to use this kind of popup, you should add a progress bar; this could help increase survey completion rates.
Feel free to use the following survey popup as a template to create your own!
Loyalty and Referral-Based Discount Popups
Loyalty and referral-based discount popups are marketing tools. Loyalty popups reward repeat customers with discounts, enhancing retention. Referral popups incentivize customers to refer others, broadening your customer base.
Let's take a look at an example of a loyalty discount popup from SIR.:
What's Working & What Could Be Better?
- The popup promotes an exclusive seasonal gift for their plus members, which is a fantastic way to reward loyalty and encourage repeat purchases. This kind of exclusive content enhances the perceived value of being a loyalty program member.
- The design is clean and sophisticated, matching SIR.'s overall aesthetic. Including product images (tote and socks) clearly showcases what members will receive, making the offer tangible and appealing.
- The "View gift offer" button is prominently displayed and straightforward, effectively guiding members on how to claim their reward.
This loyalty and referral-based discount popup can be cloned for your own use:
How to Create Discount Popup?
Creating a discount popup, also known as a sales promotion popup, can be accomplished through several methods depending on the platform your website is on. It's an excellent way to draw your customers' attention and drive sales conversions effectively. Methods for creating such popups vary widely but can be broadly grouped into:
1. Shopify Inbuilt Functionality: If your ecommerce store is on Shopify, you can harness the platform's built-in functionality for creating discount popups. Shopify's "Discounts" section provides a comprehensive set of tools that enable you to set up promotional codes, set discount rates, and design the popup layout.
2. WordPress Popup Plugins: For websites built on WordPress, numerous plugins are available for creating sales promotion popups. Plugins like Popup Maker, OptinMonster, and Ninja Popups allow you to customize according to your needs.
3. Ecommerce Platforms: Many other ecommerce platforms like WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and Magento offer options and extensions for creating custom popups.
4. Marketing Automation Tools: Tools like Hubspot, Mailchimp, and Marketo also offer popup creation functionality as a part of their marketing tool suite.
Now, let's talk about why I'd recommend Popupsmart among these options.
Popupsmart is a powerful popup builder platform, which stands out because of its advanced features, easy usability, and compatibility with various website platforms. Here's why it's my recommended choice:
- User-Friendly: Even with zero design or programming skills, you can create eye-catching popups within minutes using Popupsmart.
- Versatile: Popupsmart is not limited to Shopify or WordPress only; you can use it on almost any website platform.
- Advanced Targeting: Popupsmart offers advanced targeting options, allowing you to show the popup to the right people at the right time. You can determine when your popup will appear, on which device, and to which niche of audience.
- SEO-Friendly: While some popups can be detrimental to SEO, Popupsmart ensures their popups are SEO-friendly, therefore, your website’s ranking won’t be affected.
Therefore, due to these reasons, I would recommend using Popupsmart for creating efficient sales promotion popups for your website. So let's move with steps:
Step 1: Choose a popup builder & sign up
We will continue with Popupsmart in this step. By following the steps, you can instantly add discount popups to your website and provide promotions to your visitors. It's quick, easy, fun, and most importantly, your first popup is free.
Sign up for Popupsmart to use its free plan.
Step 2: Connect your website and start creating your first popup.
Paste Popupsmart's embed code between the <body> tags in your site's template file to connect your website.
To see this step in more detail, go to the content “How to Embed the Code on your Site” and return here to create a discount popup.
Click “+New Campaign” at the top right and choose your website.
Step 3: Choose your template
Popupsmart has over 250 ready-made templates. If you don't want to deal with the hassle, you can directly choose the "promote products & offers" option and pick a template that you like.
Step 4: Customize your discount popup
If you want, you can make changes to the selected ready-made template. You can change the image easily by moving the text with the drag-and-drop feature.
And if you wish, you can add new elements to your popup, such as a countdown timer, coupon code, or anything else that comes to mind. Here are all the elements you can add:
Step 5: Style your popup
This is where you can decide how and where (small, medium, large) your popup is positioned, change the background as you wish, decide on button style, close button style, and many other things.
Step 6: Target the right visitor at the right time
This step is where Popupsmart really shines. Why? It offers more than 10 different targeting options, each tailored to display your discount to an audience ready to see it. This eliminates the chance of being visible to everyone and potentially being disliked by some users.
With unique targeting options such as exit-Intent targeting, after-scrolling, and sitedata targeting, you can ensure your popup reaches the right audience at the right time.
Step 7: Publish your discount popup
Yes, there is nothing else you can do, congratulations! Now, you can click on "publish" the popup and increase purchases by offering discounts to those who visit your website!
Wrap-Up: Best Practices for Discount Popups
Discount popups can be a great way for online stores to attract customers, grow their email lists, and boost engagement. To make the most of them, it's important to follow some best practices that grab attention and improve the user experience. Here are some detailed guidelines for creating and using effective discount popups:
⌛ Timing and Triggering
- Don't show the discount popup right away when someone lands on your site. Give them some time to look around first. A delay of around 30 seconds or triggering after they've seen a couple of pages can make the popup feel less intrusive.
- Use exit-intent popups to catch potential customers who are about to leave your site. This method detects when a user is about to leave and gives them a tempting offer to stay.
- Trigger popups based on user actions, like scrolling to a certain point on a page or spending a specific amount of time on a product category, to make them more relevant and effective.
🖼️ Design and Layout
- Keep your popup design simple and uncluttered. Use bold colors and clear fonts to make the offer stand out, but make sure it matches your brand's aesthetics.
- Design popups that look good on all devices, especially on mobile, since many people shop online using their smartphones and tablets.
- Use high-quality images that are relevant and eye-catching. For example, if the discount applies to a specific item, show it being used.
✍️ Content and Messaging
- Use engaging and direct headlines like "Get 20% Off Your First Order!" to let visitors know the value of the offer immediately.
- Make your call-to-action buttons large and easy to click, and use action-oriented text like "Claim Your Discount" or "Get My Coupon."
- Clearly state what the visitor gains by interacting with the popup, such as a discount, free shipping, or a gift on their next purchase.
🪟 Offer Transparency
- Clearly explain the terms of the discount, including any minimum purchase required, the offer's expiration date, and which products or categories it applies to.
- Use elements like customer testimonials or a counter showing how many people have used the offer successfully to build trust.
🛣️ Compliance and User Experience
- Always provide an easy way for users to dismiss the popup if they're not interested, like a simple "No thanks" link or a visible close button.
- Make sure your popup strategy complies with legal requirements, such as the GDPR, especially if you're collecting email addresses or personal information.
🎯 Personalization
- Use customer data to create more personalized popup offers. For instance, returning visitors could receive a different message from first-time visitors.
- Implement dynamic popup content based on user behavior or demographics to make the offers more relevant.
By following these best practices, you can make sure your discount popups are more engaging and effective and contribute positively to the overall user experience of your online store. Creating popups with the user in mind can significantly increase your chances of boosting conversions while maintaining a positive brand image.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Write a Discount Offer Message for a Discount Popup?
Writing a discount offer message requires clarity, conciseness, and a compelling call-to-action. Your message should clearly state the discount being offered, the terms of the discount, and how to redeem it.
Make it as concise as possible; avoid overly complex language or terms. Your call-to-action must entice customers to take immediate action. Use phrases like "Claim Your Discount Now" or "Save 20% Today!" to generate urgency and excitement.
How to Personalize Discount Popups?
Personalizing discount popups can significantly increase their effectiveness by making them more relevant to the individual user. Here are strategies to personalize your popups:
- Segment Your Audience: Use data to segment your audience based on their behavior, purchase history, or demographics. Tailor the popup message according to these segments, such as targeting first-time visitors with a welcome discount or returning customers with a loyalty bonus.
- Utilize Behavioral Triggers: Customize popups based on user behavior on your site. For example, display a specific discount popup when a visitor spends a certain amount of time on a particular product page or is about to exit after adding items to their cart.
- Dynamic Content: Implement dynamic content in your popups that changes based on the data you have about the visitor. This could include their name if known, their location, or even the weather in their area.
- Retargeting: Use retargeting tools to show personalized popups based on the user’s previous interactions with your site. For example, offer a specific product discount to someone who viewed that product but left the site without purchasing.
- Integrate with CRM: Connect your popup tool with your Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to leverage existing customer data for personalized offers. This can include previous purchase behavior, loyalty status, or birthday discounts.
