Shopify email marketing: you know it’s important, but figuring out how to actually make it work for your business can feel overwhelming. With this whole new world of AI tools available, social media, paid ads, affiliate marketing and so on – how do emails even compete in 2024 and beyond?
This is where we come in. In this blog post, we’ll demystify Shopify email marketing. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right Shopify email marketing app to crafting compelling email campaigns. We’ll even discuss clever ways to weave in automation and segmentation without needing a marketing degree.
We get it — email might seem a bit “old school” compared to the allure of shiny new marketing trends. But trust us, when it comes to building customer relationships that directly impact your bottom line, email marketing remains a powerhouse. Email marketing delivers an incredible return on investment: $40 for every $1 spent.
So buckle up as we explore this often underestimated but incredibly effective channel: Shopify email marketing.
Why Shopify Email Marketing Still Matters in 2024 (And Probably Always Will)?
Despite new marketing tools like influencer collaborations and TikTok trends, email consistently outperforms when it comes to building direct relationships with customers and, ultimately, driving sales.
1. Direct Access and Personalization
Social algorithms change on a whim, but with Shopify email marketing, you own the platform. This translates to direct access to your audience’s inboxes, free from the ever-shifting sands of social media algorithms. Email marketing allows you to talk directly to your customers.
Segment your audience based on their past purchases and behaviors so your messaging resonates on a personal level. Imagine a new mom receiving an email showcasing baby clothes right after she browses your store’s baby section. That’s targeted messaging in action. It yields real results.
Studies have shown that personalized subject lines increase email open rates by as much as 26%. This can help you reach more customers and build stronger relationships.
2. Owning Your Data
Unlike some social media platforms, you have complete ownership of your subscriber data with Shopify email marketing. This is huge. Analyze buying patterns, track email engagement, and understand your audience in a way that third-party platforms simply can’t offer. You can use this data to improve your marketing campaigns and get better results.
3. Automating the Customer Journey
Shopify integrates seamlessly with many email marketing tools. Take advantage of automation features. Use automated emails for new subscribers, abandoned cart reminders, and even post-purchase follow-ups that recommend products. You can automate almost all of this.
How Shopify Batching Can Impact Time-Sensitive Campaigns?
Shopify uses a method called “batching” for sending emails to lists with over 1,000 subscribers. This leads to staggered email delivery. While batching ensures email deliverability, this staggered approach might pose problems during time-sensitive promotions.
If you have an email list surpassing 1,000 subscribers and are planning a flash sale, your entire mailing list might not receive the email simultaneously. This is something to keep in mind when you use Shopify to send email campaigns.
Consider contacting the Shopify Help Center if your email campaign hasn’t been fully delivered within 72 hours. They may be able to provide more information on when to expect delivery.
Choosing the Right Shopify Email Marketing App for Your Business
We understand. With so many amazing Shopify email apps, it can be tough deciding which one is right for you. Here’s a breakdown to make your decision easier:
1. Shopify Email
Easy, no-frills, cost-effective. Shopify’s native app lets you send 10,000 emails for free each month and then a $1 fee applies for every additional 1,000 emails sent. This app might be for you if you value simplicity.
For instance, if you only send one or two bulk emails a week to a relatively small list, this email marketing software could be a good fit. Shopify Email lets you pull products, prices and even discounts straight from your store.
2. Mailchimp
Mailchimp needs no introduction. Their free plan caters to up to 500 contacts. Beyond that, they offer various paid plans.
Known for user-friendly design and a wide range of email features, Mailchimp also has resources and tutorials to support you along the way. It’s a very popular option in the Shopify app store.
3. Omnisend
With Omnisend, you’re diving into the realm of e-commerce-focused email marketing. They integrate SMS and push notifications so you can create omnichannel campaigns.
What’s more, their segmentation features make it a snap to target the right people at the right time. Prices are based on features, contacts, and emails per month, so you can pick the right plan as you scale. Omnisend even claims an incredible average email marketing ROI of $40 for every $1 spent.
4. Constant Contact
With a user-friendly drag-and-drop editor and impressive deliverability rates, this option also gives you powerful list-building and automation features. Constant Contact shines for businesses that frequently organize events. However, keep in mind their higher price point compared to other tools.
5. ActiveCampaign
For established brands or those who use CRM to create really granular customer journeys, ActiveCampaign might be your match. You can target segments at different points, A/B test your messaging and tailor discounts — pretty powerful stuff.
Keep in mind they charge per contact, so while it’s tempting to target everyone, start with smaller lists that generate higher open and conversion rates to get the best results from your efforts. You don’t want to waste your marketing budget.
Tips for Stellar Shopify Email Marketing Content
The goal is simple: compelling emails that customers actually enjoy reading. But with inboxes more crowded than ever, it’s easy for your message to get lost. Don’t just blast out any old email.
Here’s how to create Shopify email marketing content that truly stands out and makes an impact on your target audience. These simple tips will help you write emails your audience will actually want to read.
1. Killer Subject Lines
If your subject line’s not compelling, the rest doesn’t even matter. People judge your emails within seconds; a captivating subject line makes all the difference. Try to use emojis, preview text, and personalization in your subject lines.
2. Make Your Visuals Pop
Use high-quality photos, GIFs, or videos to break up the text. Remember, a beautiful email showcasing products is a million times better than just a boring wall of text. This means including high-quality product shots.
You can easily integrate your product images directly from your Shopify product library straight into your emails.
3. CTAs That Pop, Like Fireworks (But Less Dangerous)
What do you want people to do after they read your email? Clearly state it in your call to action. Make it impossible for them to miss it. Want them to “shop now?” Tell ‘em. Use buttons and strong action-oriented verbs for optimal impact.
Leveling Up: Segment Your Audience for Impact
Here’s where the magic really happens with Shopify email marketing. Think of segments as buckets. You wouldn’t throw cat food and dog food in the same bucket if your goal was to make cats AND dogs happy.
Target the right “customer personas” in a specific way that benefits that individual person. Treat each customer with respect because a one-size-fits-all approach will yield less than desirable results in today’s marketplace.
Segmentation is an art; you’ll refine your segments over time. Here are some categories to get you started:
| Segment | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| New Subscribers | People who signed up but haven’t purchased yet. | Welcome them with a discount. |
| Recent Customers | People who’ve recently made a purchase. | Thank them for their business, offer exclusive deals, encourage repeat purchases. |
| Cart Abandoners | People who added items to their cart but didn’t complete the purchase. | Remind them about the awesome products in their cart and give them a nudge. Offer free shipping, time-limited discounts. |
| High Spenders | Your VIP customers – those who spend the most. | Show them the love. Offer exclusive deals, early access, special gifts, or sneak peeks at new arrivals. |
Dario`s Summary
Shopify email marketing, when done strategically and consistently, allows you to create personal, lasting connections with your customers in a world saturated with digital noise. Remember, the secret lies in treating each email as a chance to add value to their inbox.
Showcase stunning visuals, craft enticing offers, segment with precision, automate for a personalized touch. Before long you’ll notice those clicks converting into sales.
Ready to transform your approach? Good, then go for it and embrace the awesome power of Shopify email marketing.
Frequently Asked Questions
