Upselling Bundles: A Game-Changer for your Shopify Stores

Sougandhi Golla

Sougandhi Golla

Sougandhi Golla

Ever walked into a coffee shop for a regular latte, only to walk out with a large caramel macchiato and a pastry? That’s upselling done right—seamless, valuable, and beneficial to both the shopper and the business. When done strategically, it feels less like a sales tactic and more like personalized shopping assistance.

Did you know that upselling can boost your revenue by up to 30%? It’s not just a strategy—it’s a necessity. And when it comes to upselling, product bundles are one of the most effective tools in your arsenal.

Not only do they increase your Average Order Value (AOV), but they also provide a better shopping experience for your shoppers.

Let’s dive into how you can master the art of upselling bundles and take your Shopify store to the next level. In this blog you will learn the following:

Why Upselling Bundles Works

  • Psychological Benefits of Bundles

  • Impact on Revenue

  • Strategic Advantages`

  • Types of Bundles to Upsell

  • Real-Life Success Stories Showing Upselling through Bundling on Shopify

  • Innovative Approaches to Boost Bundle Upselling

  • Conclusion

❇️ Why Upselling Bundles Works

Alright, let’s talk about why bundles should be your go-to upselling strategy. It’s simple: bundling is a win-win for both you and your shoppers.

So, rather than just trying to upsell individual items, think about how you can create bundles that make sense for your shoppers' needs. It’s a strategy that doesn’t just boost your sales—it strengthens your relationship with your shoppers too.

1. Psychological Benefits of Bundles

  • Increases Perceived Value: People love feeling like they’re getting a deal. Bundles make shoppers think they’re getting more value by combining products together.

  • Triggers Loss Aversion: When shoppers see they’re saving money with a bundle, they’re less likely to walk away. They don’t want to miss out on a good deal.

  • Creates a Sense of Convenience: Bundles save shoppers time. They don’t have to figure out which products go together—you’ve already done that for them.

  • Boosts Satisfaction: Bundles often cover more needs in one go, which makes shoppers feel like they’re getting a better overall shopping experience.

2. Impact on Revenue

  • Increases Average Order Value (AOV)

When you offer bundles, shoppers are more likely to spend more in a single transaction. A bundle is essentially a higher-priced package that includes multiple items, encouraging shoppers to buy more at once.

For example, if someone is looking to buy a single item, they might hesitate at the price, but when presented with a bundle that includes the item plus other complementary products at a small discount, they feel like they’re getting more value. This naturally drives up your AOV, which is a key metric for revenue growth.

  • Improves Inventory Turnover

Bundling can be a clever way to move products that aren’t selling as well on their own. If you’ve got slow-moving inventory, pairing these items with bestsellers or more popular products in a bundle can help clear them out.

Shoppers are more likely to purchase the bundle because they feel they’re getting a deal, even if the bundle contains products that would have otherwise sat unsold. This not only boosts your revenue but also keeps your stock fresh and constantly rotating.

  • Encourages Repeat Purchases

Upselling bundles doesn’t just generate revenue today—it builds long-term shoppers loyalty. When shoppers have a positive experience with a well-curated bundle, they’re more likely to come back for more.

Bundles that deliver real value and convenience increase shopper’s satisfaction, and happy shoppers are repeat shoppers. As they return to your store and purchase bundles again (or other products), it strengthens your revenue stream over time.

  • Promotes Add-On Sales

Bundles also act as a way to introduce shoppers to products they may not have considered otherwise. For example, if a shopper buys a camera, a bundle that includes memory cards, a case, and a cleaning kit could encourage them to buy those add-on items, even if they hadn’t planned on it.

These new discoveries can become shopper favorites, leading to future purchases. When shoppers find value in products they hadn’t originally intended to buy, it creates an opportunity for you to increase overall sales beyond the initial bundle.

  • Higher Profit Margins

When you upsell bundles, especially those with higher-priced items, you may be able to increase your profit margins. Bundles can be priced strategically to offer a discount but still maintain a solid margin.

Even with a slight discount, the overall profit from selling a bundle can be higher compared to selling individual items separately. This is because bundling allows you to move more products while still making a profit on each.

  • Attracts Higher-Spending Shoppers

When bundles are priced strategically, they can attract shoppers who are willing to spend more in exchange for added value. Some shoppers are more likely to choose a higher-priced bundle that seems like a "deal" compared to individual purchases.

For example, if a shopper sees a bundle with three premium products at a slightly higher price than the single product they were considering, they may opt for the bundle, seeing it as more worth the price. This helps you capture shoppers who might normally buy lower-priced items but are swayed by the perceived value in a bundle.

3. Strategic Advantages

  • Differentiates Your Store: Unique bundles make your store stand out and help shoppers remember you.

  • Strengthens Brand Perception: Bundles based on themes (like "Self-Care Sunday" or "Fitness Starter Kit") connect your brand to what shoppers care about and aspire to.

  • Simplifies Marketing Efforts: Bundles give you a clear message to promote, making it easier to run focused marketing campaigns.

  • Encourages Social Sharing: Well-designed or creative bundles are more likely to be shared on social media, boosting your brand's visibility.

❇️ Types of Bundles to Upsell

If you're looking to boost sales, through upselling, the trick is offering them extra value, convenience, or a special deal that makes them feel like they're getting a lot for their money. Let’s break down how the different types of bundles can help you with this.

1. Volume Bundles

Upselling Technique: Encourage shoppers to buy more of a product they already intended to purchase.

  • How it Works: By offering discounts when shoppers buy in larger quantities (e.g., "Buy 2, get 1 free"), you incentivize them to increase their purchase size. Shoppers feel they're getting more for their money, which can drive up their total spend without requiring them to purchase something entirely new.

  • Example: A shopper buys a single bottle of shampoo but is encouraged by a volume bundle like "Buy 2, get 1 free." This upsells them to purchase more than originally planned, increasing their cart value.

2. Fixed Bundles

Upselling Technique: Offer a ready-made bundle at a better price than if shoppers bought each item separately.

  • How it Works: Fixed bundles provide value by combining related items into a single package for a lower price than if they were bought individually. Shoppers feel like they're getting a deal, which encourages them to purchase a higher-priced bundle rather than just one item.

  • Example: A shopper is looking for a winter jacket, and they see a "Winter Essentials Bundle" that includes gloves, a scarf, and the jacket at a slight discount. Instead of buying only the jacket, they feel it's worth spending a little more for the whole set.

3. Mix and Match Bundles

Upselling Technique: Allow shoppers to personalize their bundle, which often results in them purchasing more items than they initially planned.

  • How it Works: By giving shoppers the flexibility to choose items they are interested in, you make the purchase feel more tailored and relevant. The discount incentivizes them to add more items to their cart.

  • Example: A shopper is shopping for skincare products. They initially planned to buy just a cleanser, but a "Mix and Match" bundle offers the option to add a toner and moisturizer for a lower total price. The shopper is more likely to add those additional items to their cart, increasing the overall sale.

4. Cross-Sell Bundles

Upselling Technique: Suggest complementary products to shoppers, enhancing the overall value of their purchase.

  • How it Works: Cross-selling bundles highlight related or complementary items that shoppers might not have thought of. These bundles increase the overall value of the sale by showing how the products work together.

  • Example: A shopper buys a camera but is offered a "Complete Your Photography Bundle" that includes a tripod, memory card, and camera bag at a discount. The shopper is more likely to purchase the bundle because it complements their main purchase.

5. Seasonal Bundles

Upselling Technique: Leverage the season or holiday demand to offer shoppers exclusive deals on bundles they wouldn't have considered outside that time.

  • How it Works: During peak times like holidays, shoppers are often willing to spend more, especially if they're purchasing gifts or decorating for the season. A seasonal bundle offers the convenience of buying multiple items at once, while also capitalizing on a sense of urgency or limited-time offers.

  • Example: A shopper comes to buy a holiday gift for someone but is encouraged to buy a "Holiday Gift Set" that includes a scarf, hat, and gloves, instead of just a single item. The bundle upsells them on an extra two items at a perceived discount.

6. Trial Bundles

Upselling Technique: Introduce shoppers to more expensive or premium products by offering a lower-cost entry point.

  • How it Works: A trial bundle offers shoppers a sample of multiple items for a reduced price, making them more likely to try things they otherwise wouldn’t. Once they've tried the bundle, they’re more likely to upgrade to the full-sized or premium version.

  • Example: A shopper buys a trial-size meal kit bundle that introduces them to a variety of recipes. Once they see the value and quality, they may be encouraged to buy larger meal plans or higher-priced options.

7. Premium Bundles

Upselling Technique: Position higher-end or exclusive items as a luxurious upgrade, appealing to shoppers who want to feel they are getting something special.

  • How it Works: Premium bundles offer a collection of high-end products at a discount, but still at a higher price than the regular bundles. Shoppers who are looking for luxury or exclusivity are more likely to spend more on the perceived prestige of the items in the bundle.

  • Example: A shopper comes to buy a simple skincare product but is tempted to buy a "Luxury Spa Day Bundle" that includes premium skincare items, scented candles, and a silk robe at a bundle price. This upsells them to a higher total spend with the promise of luxury.

❇️ How these Bundles Benefit Upselling:

  • Value Perception: Shoppers feel like they are getting more for their money, which makes them more willing to spend a little extra.

  • Increased Cart Value: By bundling products together, you make it easy for shopper to purchase more items without having to make multiple decisions.

  • Tailored Experiences: Bundles can be personalized or flexible, encouraging shopper to purchase additional items that complement what they already need or want.

  • Strategic Discounts: Offering a slight discount for bundled items helps shoppers feel they are getting a deal, making them more likely to spend more than they originally planned.

❇️ Real-Life Success Stories Showing Upselling through Bundling on Shopify

1. Beardbrand

Niche: Men’s Grooming

What They Did:

Beardbrand is a popular men’s grooming brand that successfully used bundling to encourage shoppers to purchase more products at a time. They created bundles that targeted specific needs, like their "The Beardbrand Styling Bundle" which included a beard wash, conditioner, and styling balm—all at a discount. They also offer themed bundles, like a "Beard Care Kit," which bundles essential items together in a curated way.

Results:

By creating bundles tailored to different shopper’s needs and preferences, Beardbrand increased the average order value (AOV) significantly. They found that shoppers were more likely to buy multiple products, and the bundles provided a clear value proposition, which led to higher sales per transaction. The bundles allowed them to cross-sell related products without being overly aggressive, making the buying process feel personal and valuable.

2. Pura Vida Bracelets

Niche: Jewelry and Accessories

What They Did:

Pura Vida Bracelets is a popular jewelry brand that offers a variety of bracelets and accessories. They launched a "Stackable Bracelets" bundle, where shoppers could choose three or more bracelets at a discounted rate. This bundling strategy encouraged shoppers to buy more than one item, which is key for their business model. They also created exclusive "limited edition" bundles that could only be purchased during certain times of the year, playing on the sense of urgency.

Results:

Pura Vida experienced a significant increase in the number of items purchased per order. Their bundles tapped into shoppers' desire to have a "complete set" and offered a better deal than purchasing individual bracelets. Shoppers enjoyed the convenience of picking multiple items without feeling like they were overspending, which led to a higher AOV. The exclusive bundles also helped increase sales during peak seasons.

3. Café Grumpy

Niche: Specialty Coffee

What They Did:

Café Grumpy, a boutique coffee roaster, utilized bundling to upsell with their "Coffee Lovers Bundle" combined a selection of premium beans and a set of mugs at a discounted price, creating a thoughtful and practical package.

Results:

Through bundling, Café Grumpy increased shopper’s loyalty by offering coffee bundles that made it easy for shoppers to try new flavours and products without feeling overwhelmed by choices. This upselling strategy not only boosted their average order value (AOV).

❇️ Innovative Approaches to Boost Bundle Upselling

1. Offer Tiers with the “Good-Better-Best” Model

Present bundles in three tiers—basic, upgraded, and premium—so shoppers have choices.

  • Good: A simple starter bundle at an entry-level price.

  • Better: An upgraded version with added value.

  • Best: A premium package with exclusive perks or full product sets.

This approach encourages shoppers to opt for the middle or premium tier, as it feels like a better deal.

2. Create Personalized Bundles Using Shopper’s Data

Use purchase history or browsing behaviuor to recommend tailored bundles. Personalization makes shoppers feel the offer is uniquely designed for their needs.

Example: If someone buys hiking boots, suggest a “Trail Ready Bundle” with socks, a water bottle, and a daypack.

3. Build Urgency with Limited-Time Bundles

Drive conversions by offering bundles with a countdown timer or limited stock.

Example: “Flash Sale: This weekend only, get our Self-Care Bundle for 30% off!”

4. Solve Problems with Purpose-Driven Bundles

Frame your bundle as a complete solution to a specific customer challenge or need.

Example: A travel store could offer a “Jet-Set Bundle” with packing cubes, a neck pillow, and a portable charger to simplify travel prep.

5. Add Exclusivity with Unique Products

Include items in the bundle that can’t be purchased separately, such as unreleased or exclusive products.

Example: A cosmetics brand could offer a “Beauty Box” bundle that features a sneak-peek product shoppers can’t get anywhere else.

6. Use Social Proof to Promote Bundles

Highlight positive shopper’s reviews or popularity stats for bundles to build trust and credibility.

Example: “Over 5,000 shoppers love our Starter Skincare Bundle—get yours today!”

7. Sweeten the Deal with Freebies

Include a free item in the bundle as a bonus. Even small freebies can create excitement and drive more sales.

Example: “Get a free pair of cozy socks when you purchase our Winter Essentials Bundle.”

8. Show the Savings Visually

Display clear comparisons between bundle pricing and the cost of purchasing items individually. Seeing the savings makes it easier for shoppers to justify spending more.

Example: “Bundle Price: $49.99 (Value: $80)—Save 38%!”

9. Offer Add-On Mini-Bundles at Checkout

Once a shopper adds a product to their cart, suggest a smaller bundle as an add-on.

Example: If a shopper buys headphones, recommend a “Music Lovers Mini-Bundle” with a protective case and cleaning kit.

10. Align Bundles with Seasons or Events

Tie your bundles to holidays, seasons, or trending occasions to make them feel relevant and timely.

Example: A home goods store could offer a “Holiday Hosting Bundle” with tableware, candles, and decor for festive gatherings.

Discover more about retail upselling here!

❇️ Conclusion

Upselling bundles is a proven way to grow your revenue and delight customers. Whether it’s cross-sells or curated kits, the opportunities are limitless. Shopify success stories highlight the impact—so explore creative strategies like limited-time bundle deals. Elevate your sales and leave a lasting impression on your shoppers!

Ready to take your upselling game to the next level? Explore how FoxSell can help you seamlessly integrate bundles and boost your sales today!

Bundle More, Sell More

Bundle More,
Sell More

Bundle More,
Sell More

Increase your Average Order Value with FoxSell Bundles Plus

Increase your Average Order Value with FoxSell Bundles Plus