If someone buys a tent, it makes sense to offer them a sleeping bag. That’s cross-selling: suggesting products from another category that go with or complement the purchase. This can happen in the shopping cart, on the product page, or after the purchase, via an email or WhatsApp message.

Why does it matter?

Selling to a customer who already trusts you is usually easier than acquiring a new one. Cross-selling increases the average order value and revenue per customer, and it also helps customers find what they need.

The key is relevance. Recommending products at random is annoying. Recommending items that other customers typically buy along with that product adds value.

Timing matters, too. Some recommendations work right in the shopping cart, such as a cell phone case. Others are more effective a few days later, once the customer has used their purchase and realized what they’re missing.

Story mode

Lucia buys a pair of trail running shoes from an online sports store. A week later, she receives a WhatsApp message: “Lucia, have you tried out your shoes yet? Many trail runners pair them with these technical socks and a hydration pack.” Lucia hadn’t thought of that, but she finds the suggestion useful and buys the socks.

How to Use It with Data4Sales

• Product Affinity: Recommendations Based on What Is Purchased Together.
• Automated post-purchase workflows via WhatsApp, email, or SMS.
• Orbis Creative creates a unique message for each client based on their information.

Related terms

• Upsell
• Product Affinity
• Average order value
• Average spend per customer