Mactavis

Category: E-commerce

  • Why Your E-commerce Store Has High Cart Abandonment

    Why Your E-commerce Store Has High Cart Abandonment

    Cart abandonment is one of the most painful experiences for any online store owner. You work hard to bring people to your website; they browse, add items to their cart, but when it is time to pay, you don’t hear anything. It feels like someone walking into your shop, picking up what they like, heading for the counter, then stepping outside without paying. That kind of silence stings.

    Studies have shown that the average cart abandonment rate in e-commerce is shockingly high, sitting at about 70 percent worldwide. This means that out of every 10 customers who add items to their cart, 7 never complete the purchase. Imagine how much revenue slips away each day if nothing changes.

    This blog will explain why cart abandonment happens so often and, more importantly, what you can do to fix it. By the end, you will know the exact roadblocks stopping customers from checking out and the practical steps that will help you recover more sales.

    What Is Cart Abandonment

    Cart abandonment happens when a customer adds items to their shopping cart but leaves the website without completing the purchase. It is the online version of someone walking into a shop, filling their basket, then dropping it by the counter and leaving empty-handed. For e-commerce stores, this single act can be the difference between growing sales and losing revenue every day.

    High cart abandonment directly affects revenue because it shows that people are interested in your products, yet something holds them back from finishing the transaction. That hesitation translates into lost sales. You have already spent money to attract these customers through ads, marketing campaigns, or search engine visibility. If they abandon their carts, all that investment produces little or no return.

    Every abandoned cart means wasted advertising spend, since you paid to bring that visitor to your store. It also creates a poor customer experience, as shoppers might leave feeling that the process was stressful or unclear. Over time, it reduces customer lifetime value, since people who abandon often may never come back to try again. This is why tackling cart abandonment is one of the smartest moves any online store owner can make.

    Common Reasons Behind High Cart Abandonment

    Unexpected Extra Costs (Shipping, Taxes, Fees)

    One of the reasons for cart abandonment is hidden charges that appear at checkout. A shopper may be ready to pay for an item, then gets shocked by unexpected shipping fees, taxes, or other add-ons. That surprise is enough to make them dip. Transparency from the beginning is the best way to solve this. Show shipping costs early, display total prices clearly, and give customers confidence that what they see is what they will pay.

    Complicated Checkout Process

    Nothing kills a sale faster than a checkout that has too many steps. Too many form fields, multiple pages, or forced account creation can deter buyers. Many customers just want a quick, simple process. Offering guest checkout, reducing steps, and using auto-fill options can make the difference between a completed order and another case of cart abandonment.

    Limited Payment Options

    Imagine a customer ready to buy, only to find that their preferred payment method is missing. That small gap or inconvenience can easily make your customer pause on making a payment. People shop with different preferences, from debit cards to bank transfers, mobile wallets and installment options. The more payment methods you provide, the higher the chance of capturing every buyer who reaches the checkout page.

    Website Performance Issues

    A store that takes forever to load or breaks midway is a store that loses money. Cart abandonment often happens when a site is unresponsive on mobile, freezes during checkout, or just feels unreliable. Shoppers associate poor performance with risk, so they leave instead of pushing through payment. Fast loading, smooth checkout, and mobile-friendly design are non-negotiable.

    Security Concerns

    If a shopper feels unsafe, they will not enter their card details. A missing HTTPS sign, no trust badges, or unfamiliar payment gateways all create doubt. Customers want to feel reassured that their money and data are safe. Displaying secure payment seals, SSL certificates, and reviews can help reduce cart abandonment caused by trust issues.

    Poor Return or Refund Policy

    Nobody wants to be trapped after a purchase. If your return or refund policy is unclear or feels too restrictive, customers will think twice before completing an order. Buyers want safety nets, and offering fair, easy-to-find policies makes them more confident to go ahead with payment.

    Distractions or Lack of Urgency

    Some shoppers abandon carts simply because they get distracted or decide to “think about it” and never come back. Without reminders, scarcity cues, or a reason to buy now, many of those carts will remain abandoned. Sending follow-up emails, showing limited stock alerts, or offering time-sensitive deals can bring customers back before they forget.

    How to Fix High Cart Abandonment

    Be Transparent with Pricing

    Shoppers prefer transparency. They want to know exactly what they will pay before they reach the checkout page. When hidden shipping costs, taxes, or extra fees suddenly appear, it feels like a trap and leads to cart abandonment. The fix is simple: display all costs early and keep the process clear. Offering free shipping thresholds is another smart move, since it encourages larger orders while giving customers a sense of value. With clear pricing, buyers are more likely to complete their purchase without hesitation.

    Simplify the Checkout Process

    A long, complicated checkout process is one of the fastest ways to lose a customer. People want convenience, not stress. One-page checkout works better than forcing customers to click through multiple steps. Adding features like auto-fill, guest checkout, and mobile-friendly forms makes the process smoother. A simple checkout flow keeps buyers focused and reduces the risk of cart abandonment.

    Offer Multiple Payment Methods

    Every customer has a preferred way of paying. Some rely on debit or credit cards, others use PayPal, mobile wallets, bank transfers, USSD, or even payment on delivery, depending on the type of business. If your store limits choice, customers may abandon their cart in search of convenience elsewhere. Offering a variety of payment methods creates flexibility, builds trust, and helps you capture sales from different types of buyers.

    Optimize Site Speed and Mobile Experience

    A site that lags or fails to load properly on mobile will lose customers fast. Many shoppers browse and buy directly from their phones, so performance is non-negotiable. Fast-loading pages and mobile-friendly design reduce friction, improve trust, and cut down cart abandonment that happens simply because the checkout process feels unreliable.

    Build Trust with Security Signals

    Lack of SSL certificates, missing trust badges, or payment pages without security signals push customers away. Clear indicators like “secure checkout,” visible SSL, trusted payment gateways, and customer reviews give reassurance. By showing that payments are protected, you make buyers more confident to complete their purchase.

    Improve Return and Refund Policies

    Shoppers want to know they are not stuck if a product does not meet their expectations. An unclear or restrictive return policy discourages them from finishing the purchase. Offering customer-friendly policies, written in plain language and visible at checkout, reduces hesitation. This transparency turns uncertainty into confidence, which directly reduces cart abandonment.

    Use Retargeting and Reminders

    Sometimes customers abandon carts because life gets in the way. They plan to return later, but never do. Retargeting tools and reminders help bring them back. Abandoned cart emails, push notifications, or special discounts can re-ignite their interest. By reminding shoppers of what they left behind, you increase the chances of turning abandoned carts into completed sales.

    Turning Cart Abandoners into Loyal Customers

    Cart abandonment should not always be seen as a dead end. Sometimes, it is a second chance to connect with a customer who already showed interest in your product. Recovering those carts is not just about winning back a single sale; it can open the door to building stronger, long-term relationships.

    Follow-ups play a big role here. A simple reminder email, a personalized discount, or even a friendly nudge can bring a shopper back. When done right, these actions show customers that you value their attention and are willing to make the buying experience easier for them. Over time, this consistency builds trust and loyalty.

    Instead of letting abandoned carts get discouraged, treat them as opportunities to stand out. Every reminder and incentive is a chance to turn hesitation into commitment and casual browsers into repeat buyers. By being proactive, you not only reduce cart abandonment but also create loyal customers who keep coming back.

    Key Takeaway

    Reducing cart abandonment takes consistency. It is about building a system that customers can trust every single time they shop. With steady improvements, store owners can recover lost revenue, improve the shopping experience, and grow stronger relationships with their buyers.

    At Mactavis Digital, we help e-commerce businesses build reliable, high-performing stores that make checkout smooth, reduce cart abandonment, and turn more visitors into paying customers. Our focus is on giving you a platform that does more than look good. We build for performance, trust, and growth.

    If you are ready to stop losing customers at the final step, partner with Mactavis Digital today. Let us help you transform your store into one that converts consistently and grows steadily. Contact us now and take the next step toward stronger sales

  • How To Build A Successful E-commerce Store 2

    How To Build A Successful E-commerce Store 2

    Building an E-commerce store is not difficult. But building a successful one can be very challenging.

    In our previous post, we discussed the fundamental principles of Building a successful e-commerce store. We talked about the importance of understanding the market, designing a user-friendly website, creating compelling content, and establishing trust and credibility. These steps are critical for laying a solid foundation and ensuring your store attracts and maintains customers successfully.

    However, knowing the fundamentals is only the beginning. In this follow-up post, we’ll focus on the technical know-how required to build your store from the ground up.

    Step 1: Decide Which Content Management System (CMS) to Use.

    The success of your e-commerce store depends on choosing the right platform and hosting provider. Your platform is the foundation for functionality, scalability, and ease of use.

    Begin by assessing different content management systems. These include Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento and many more. Each of them have distinct advantages. Shopify is known for its easy-to-use interface and large app store. WooCommerce, a WordPress plugin, offers versatility but requires more technical knowledge. BigCommerce has powerful built-in features, whereas Magento is very scalable, catering to huge organizations with complex requirements.

    Consider your company’s size and ambitions. For small to medium-sized businesses, Shopify or WooCommerce may be sufficient. Larger businesses might prefer BigCommerce or Magento.

    Scalability is critical. Make sure the platform can expand with your company, managing increased traffic and extended product catalogs seamlessly.

    Does the platform enable you to build a distinct brand experience? Look for theme customization, design flexibility, and the option to add new capabilities via applications or plugins. Your store should reflect your brand’s identity while providing a simple user experience.

    After you’ve decided on a platform, start looking into hosting options. Reliable hosting makes your website accessible, fast, and safe.

    Speed and uptime are crucial. A slow or regularly down website frustrates customers and lowers your search engine rankings. Look for hosting providers that offer high uptime guarantees and reliable performance indicators.

    Step 2: Choose a Template or Theme for Your E-Commerce Store

    Selecting the ideal design or theme for your e-commerce store is critical. It influences your online store’s look and functionality, as well as the consumer experience and conversion rates

    Start by determining your brand’s visual identity. Is it modern, traditional, playful, or sophisticated? Your template should reflect your brand’s individuality. Color, font, and design consistency help to establish brand identification and trust.

    Next, prioritize the user experience. An intuitive user-friendly design allows users to easily explore your website. Look for templates that have obvious navigation menus, well-placed call-to-action buttons, and easy-to-use search functions. A streamlined shopping experience encourages customers to stay and make purchases.

    Also, responsiveness is a must. Your store must look and work properly across all devices, including PCs, tablets, and smartphones.

    Select lightweight templates that load quickly. Avoid complex/heavy designs, which might lower performance. A visually appealing template is pointless if it slows down your website. Speed is an important consideration for both user experience and SEO.

    Budget matters. Templates come in a range of prices, from free to premium options. Free templates can be appealing but often lack advanced features and support. Premium templates usually offer better design quality, more features, and reliable support. Invest in a template that provides the best value for your money and meets your business needs.

    Step 3: Customize Your Store and Create Web Pages.

    Now that you’ve picked your platform and template, you need to personalize your e-commerce website and develop eye-catching web pages. This is where your vision comes to life, defining the look and feel of your online store.

    Begin by personalizing your website’s design components. Customize the colors, fonts, and artwork to match your brand’s identity. Consistency across your website strengthens brand awareness and builds trust with your target audience.

    Next, concentrate on developing compelling web pages. Make the most of your site, as it will be visitors’ initial impression of your store. Highlight essential items, specials, and company messaging to attract attention and encourage research.

    Every product page should be informed and convincing. Provide high-quality photos, full descriptions, and pricing information. Highlight significant features and benefits so that clients can make informed purchasing decisions.

    Don’t overlook important sections like About Us, Contact Us, and FAQs. These pages provide useful information about your brand, boost credibility, and reassure clients.  Display security badges, client testimonials, and guarantees prominently to establish trust in your brand and increase conversions.

    Step 5: Test, Test, Test: Ensure Functionality and Performance

    Thorough testing is required to ensure optimal functioning and performance. Begin by evaluating your website’s operation across several browsers and devices. What works well in one browser may appear incorrectly or contain issues in another. Test on different browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge, as well as on a variety of devices including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

    Test your website’s performance under various load scenarios. To analyze page speed and identify optimization options, use tools such as Google PageSpeed Insights and GTmetrix. A slow-loading site might repel visitors and lower your search engine rankings.

    Perform security audits and vulnerability scans. Ensure that sensitive information, such as client data and payment information, is encrypted and secure from potential attacks. Implement security best practices to protect against cyberattacks and data breaches.

    Do not forget to test your website’s responsiveness. Resize your browser window or utilize device emulators to test out different screen sizes and resolutions. Your website should adjust seamlessly to enable the best viewing and engagement across all devices. Consider performing usability testing with actual people to get valuable input on the user experience. Observing how users interact with your website can provide previously unknown insights and opportunities for improvement.

    Document and prioritize any bugs, issues, or enhancement opportunities discovered during testing.  You may need to work with a development team to quickly address and resolve these issues. Regularly update and maintain your website to ensure its continued functioning and performance.

    By devoting time and effort to extensive testing, you may uncover and resolve any issues before your e-commerce website goes live. A well-tested website not only instills trust in your clients but also lays the groundwork for success in the competitive online industry.

    Why DIY isn’t Always the Best Option For Your E-commerce Store?

    Going into the process of creating an e-commerce website from scratch can be daunting. While the temptation of a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach may appear enticing, there are numerous aspects to consider before jumping in head first.

    1. The Time Factor

    Building a functional and visually appealing e-commerce website takes time, dedication, and experience. From designing the user interface to creating the backend operations, every step requires meticulous attention to detail.

    Even with so many website builders and templates available, personalizing and fine-tuning your site to match your requirements can be time-consuming. DIY projects can need an extensive learning process, particularly for people with no prior experience in web programming.

    2. Hidden Costs And The Value Of Professionalism

    While a DIY method may appear to be cost-effective at first look, it’s important to be aware of the hidden expenses and opportunity costs. The time spent studying and troubleshooting could be better spent on your main business operations.

    Furthermore, DIY projects may lack the polished and professional appearance of a professionally created website. Investing in a qualified web developer or agency may have some initial fees, but it can eventually save you time, frustration and potential revenue loss in the long run.

    Professional web developers have the knowledge and creativity to design websites that are specific to your brand’s identity and target audience. Their understanding of industry best practices and upcoming trends guarantees that your e-commerce store remains competitive and relevant in an ever-changing market.

    Why Mactavis Digital Is the Ultimate Solution

    When it comes to creating an e-commerce website from scratch, selecting the proper partner is crucial. At Mactavis Digital, we stand out as the ultimate e-commerce solution, providing a full array of services to ensure your success.

    We take pleasure in our experienced developers and designers. With years of industry experience, our experts have the knowledge and expertise to make your vision a reality.

    From implementing new features to creating visually beautiful designs, our team goes above and beyond to provide great outcomes. We keep up with the latest trends and technologies to keep your website relevant and competitive.

    We understand that each business is unique, so we provide tailored solutions to meet your requirements. Whether you’re a small startup or an established business, we collaborate closely with you to understand your aims and objectives.

    Ready to Take the Leap into E-Commerce Success?

    Contact us today to discover more about how we can make your e-commerce idea a reality.

  • How To Build A Successful E-commerce Store

    How To Build A Successful E-commerce Store

    Did you know that e-commerce sales are estimated to exceed 6.3 trillion U.S. dollars worldwide, and this figure is expected to reach new heights in the coming years. In fact, e-commerce sales are expected to surpass eight trillion dollars by 2027, so having a successful e-commerce store cannot be over-emphasized.

     So what is E-commerce? This is simply the buying and selling of goods online.

    In today’s digital age, physical stores are not the first place that come to mind when people think about shopping. Rather, people instinctively reach for their smartphones, laptops, and tablets to search for products they want to buy. They google the items they are interested and hope they see a website they can “window shop” or purchase the item. Asides Google, they also search on social media platforms like Instagram and check the seller’s bio for a website where they can search through a proper catalog.

    Today, consumers demand even more than just a website, they crave immersive shopping experiences, seamless transactions, and unparalleled convenience. Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or a startup, understanding the intricacies of e-commerce and mastering the art and science of online retailing is paramount to success and profitability.

    Every facet of your e-commerce endeavor demands careful thought and execution, from carefully developing your brand identity to optimizing your website for optimum visibility and conversion. We’ll go deep into the world of e-commerce in this blog, covering tried-and-true tactics, useful insights, and professional advice to assist you in building and expanding a successful e-commerce business that sticks out in the crowded market of today. So grab a seat, for this is where the journey to the pinnacle of e-commerce starts.

    Understanding The Market

    1. Identify Target Audience

    In the world of e-commerce, knowing your audience is like having a treasure map in hand. Every successful online business starts with a thorough grasp of who your target audience is, what their characteristics, interests, and behavior are. By doing this, you’ll gain invaluable insights that pave the way for tailored marketing strategies and personalized shopping experiences. So, taking the time to decipher their wants and needs is the first step towards e-commerce success.

    2. Market Research

    Comprehensive market research must be carried out. By looking closely at your market, you might find hidden treasures such as new trends, potential rivals or competitors, and unrealized possibilities. Equipped with this information, you can optimize your product portfolio, hone your promotional messaging, and maintain a competitive edge.

    3. Keyword Research

    Researching keywords is more than just adding a few popular terms to your content; it’s about understanding what your customers are searching for online, this opens doors to better search engine ranking and more visibility. Equipped with this understanding, you can enhance your website’s discoverability, polish its content, and draw in a consistent flow of visitors.

    Designing a User-friendly Website

    1. Importance of Responsive Design

    Imagine a situation in which the website you browse on your tablet or smartphone appear to be a disorganized mess. It’s hardly exactly a happy experience, is it? This is where responsive design comes into play. The key to ensuring your website works and looks great on all platforms, from the smallest smartphone to the biggest desktop monitor, is responsive design. When you utilize responsive design, you’re not just building a website; you’re also building a smooth user experience that increases engagement, delights users, and encourages conversions. So, bid goodbye to jagged layouts and pixelated photos, and welcome to a website that looks fantastic from every device.

    2. User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX)

    Your website may become an interactive masterpiece by utilizing the dynamic combination of user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. Consider user interface (UI) as the visual elements that captivate your attention, such as colors, fonts, and layout. What about UX? The smooth interactions, clear calls to action, and easy navigation are the unseen magic that entices users to return time and time again. You’re not simply building a website when you combine beautiful graphics with flawless functionality—you’re building an experience that makes an impact on every visitor.

    3. Mobile Optimization

    Your e-commerce store is like a digital showroom in today’s hyper-connected world, and mobile visitors are your most valued clients. As more and more consumers purchase on smartphones and tablets, mobile optimization is becoming an absolute must. The secret to winning over the hearts (and dollars) of customers who are always on the go is to optimize your website for mobile devices, from lightning-fast load speeds to finger-friendly navigation. Therefore, embrace mobile optimization and make sure that every user, regardless of device, has a flawless and enjoyable browsing experience. Don’t allow your e-commerce store get left in the digital dust.

    It is also important to know that to have a user-friendly and successful E-commerce store, you need a development agency. They ensure your website looks great and functions flawlessly across devices. With their expertise, you can focus on growing your business while staying ahead of industry trends.

    Creating Compelling Content

    1. High-Quality Product Descriptions

    Picture yourself browsing through an e-commerce store in search of the perfect footwear, you get to a product page that hardly explains to you anything about the shoes and has a boring, uninspired description. Will you click on the “Add to Cart” button? Probably not. Choice of words are absolutely important when trying to convince a customer to make a purchase. You need to have excellent product descriptions because they are standing in gap as store attendants explaining the products to customers. Thus, instead of settling for generic descriptions, use creativity and detail to make your items stand out online and watch them sell quickly.

    2. Engaging Visual Content

    They say a picture is worth a thousand words—but in the world of e-commerce, it’s worth so much more. In a world where attention spans are shorter than ever, engaging visual content is the secret sauce that captures users’ attention and leaves a lasting impression. Whether it’s stunning product images that showcase every angle and detail or captivating videos that bring your products to life, visual content is the key to turning browsers into buyers. So, invest in high-quality photography, experiment with eye-catching graphics, and let your visuals do the talking.

    3. Incorporating SEO Techniques

    Search engine optimization (SEO), is your navigating compass in the digital space that is the internet; it directs prospective customers to your door. SEO involves more than merely cramming keywords into your writing and crossing your fingers. It involves careful preparation, smart thinking, and a dash of digital magic. Not only can you increase the exposure of your E-commerce store by using pertinent keywords, optimizing meta tags, and creating content that is engine-friendly, but you can also take control of the search results page, one click at a time. Thus, take charge of your SEO approach, dig into the data, and watch as your E-commerce store soars in the search results and draws in a crowd of interested visitors.

    Building Trust and Credibility

    1. Customers and Testimonials

    Customer reviews and testimonials are the lifeblood of your business. Think about it: when you’re considering buying something online, what’s the first thing you do? You probably head straight to the reviews section to see what other people are saying. And you’re not alone, studies show that over nine out of ten customers (95%) read product reviews before they choose to purchase something. Additionally, 58% of these shoppers say they are willing to pay more for products that have good reviews. That’s why positive reviews and testimonials are important. They’re not just proof that your products are worth buying, they are social proof that builds trust, credibility, and confidence in your brand. Encourage your satisfied customers to share their experiences and showcase those reviews, and watch as customers flock to your store.

    2. Secure Payment Options

    When it comes to online shopping, security is non-negotiable. Your customers want to know that their financial information is safe and sound. By offering trusted payment gateways like PayPal or Stripe, you’re not just processing transactions, you’re giving your customers peace of mind. Don’t cut corners when it comes to security—invest in robust payment solutions, display trust badges proudly, and show your customers that their safety is your top priority.

    3. Transparent Policies

    Transparency is the base of any successful business relationship. That’s why it’s crucial to be upfront and honest about everything from pricing to shipping policies to return/exchange procedures. Nobody likes surprises, especially when it comes to their hard-earned money. By laying all your cards on the table and making your policies clear, you’re not just avoiding misunderstandings. You’re building trust, loyalty, and confidence in your brand. So, be upfront about your prices, spell out your shipping timelines, and make your return/exchange process a breeze. Your customers will thank you for it, and you’ll earn their trust for the long haul.

    How Mactavis Digital Helps Businesses Build Successful E-commerce Stores

    Now that you’re armed with the knowledge and insights to take your e-commerce game to the next level, it’s time to take action. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to revamp your existing E-commerce store, our team at Mactavis Digital is here to help. With our web design and mobile app development expertise, we’re your one-stop shop for all things e-commerce. So, why wait? Contact us today for personalized assistance or explore our range of services to see how we can help turn your e-commerce dreams into reality.

  • How to Increase Your Fashion Brand Profitability and Grow Your Business With E-commerce

    How to Increase Your Fashion Brand Profitability and Grow Your Business With E-commerce

    Electronic commerce is the general term used to describe companies and people who do their business on the internet; including a fashion brands. In e-commerce, personal computers, smartphones, and other digital devices replace physical stores.

    Almost all goods and services like books, music, clothes, shoes, bags, airline tickets, and financial services such as stock trading and internet banking are accessible through online transactions.

    E-commerce has aided businesses, especially those with a limited audience like small businesses, in expanding their reach and establishing a substantial market presence by offering less expensive and more effective distribution channels for their goods and services. 

    For instance, Woora supplemented its physical showroom with an online store that allows customers to purchase everything from women’s dresses; to gowns, blouses, skirts, and even accessories from the comfort of their homes. 

    The internet enables fashion brands to launch e-commerce businesses or expand already successful ventures. Through websites and social media channels, companies can sell directly to consumers.

    Zalu Nua, an e-commerce store, built and managed by Mactavis Digital said its best with a quote culled from independen.co.uk:

    “When a piece of jewelry is displayed in a shop, surrounded by hundreds of other designs all dazzling you at the same time. It can be hard to pick out the right thing. Take that process online and you are presented with a well-chosen selection of pieces tailored to your budget and style preferences – all in a few clicks.”

    Most customers see online shopping as convenient because it allows them to shop whenever and wherever they choose. However, consumers are not the only people who enjoy this convenience. The convenience of running an online business allows you to do so without any geographical boundaries.  

    Technology Opportunities in Fashion  

    A shift in the generation of consumers 

    The taste and fashion demands of consumers are gradually changing as the market becomes younger. More importantly, however, is how the new generation of consumers chooses to shop for fashion.

    An e-commerce store provides by far the best ROI compared to any other platform or channel for selling your pieces, and it is the channel of choice for the emerging generation of consumers.  

    Technology-driven customers 

    A significant number of shoppers prefer the convenience that comes with better technology over a lower price – this does not mean that running a discount from time to time should be ignored.  

    About 71% of consumers are more willing to shop with brands that have incorporated technology into the shopping experience; Websites, Web apps, and Virtual try-on tools that help them see how well a design fits without them getting out of their clothes. 

    These are areas to consider as they provide convenience, engage consumers, meet their shopping desires, and personalize their shopping experience. 

    Technology-driven cost savings

    Having an e-commerce store with insightful features such as inventory management and inventory analytics is very essential. This allows you to produce or procure only pieces that are low in stock and also evaluate the demand level per piece. 

    Website, Social Media or Jumia/Konga

    A very common misconception among businesses is that there isn’t a need to have a website because of the prevalence of third-party marketplaces such as Jumia and Konga, and social media platforms such as Instagram or Facebook. As essential as these are for every business, they are not in any way a replacement for a website. 

    The benefits of having a website that is supplemented by social media and marketplaces are:  

    Better brand positioning

    A business with a website is more readily trusted than one with just social media pages. Aside from selling your products, your website is where your audience goes to understand the story behind your brand, the people behind it, and your muse.

    You can tell stories behind the products and the collections much easier than on any other platform. This gives you more opportunities to drive brand loyalty and also to curate touchpoints for new customers.

    Deeper insight into customer data and behavior

    Email addresses, contact numbers, and other personal details are usually effortlessly collected on an e-commerce store rather than on social media or marketplaces like Jumia. On your website, you have several chances to gain insight into customer and their preferences. With this, trading online via a website will offer you several chances to gain knowledge about customer information. 

    These data are accessible through cookies, personal information from sign-in/sign-up forms, and surveys. The information may be put to different uses by your brand, including contacting customers, enhancing customer experience, retargeting customers with shoppable adverts, and making tailored product suggestions.

    Reduce cost per sale

    Any marketplace you sell on like Jumia will charge a percentage for the use of their platform. While building and managing your own online store might seem expensive, you realize in the long run that it reduces costs, pays for itself, and increases your profit once you drive a higher volume of sales through it.

    If you can reach a customer directly through your website, you’ll be able to reduce your average cost per sale.

    Simplifies scaling & inventory management

    One more significant advantage of having an e-commerce store is that it simplifies business expansion and inventory control. 

    Technically, all you need to launch an e-commerce store is one person and one website initially. As your sales grow, you can broaden your service line and level up your brand with low operating costs, thereby increasing your profitability.

    Your customers’ eyes for you only

    Social media is easily distracting, and so are marketplaces like Jumia/Konga, where your products are displayed with those of other competitors.

    With your website, your customer is engrossed in a digital experience that is all about your pieces and products. All recommended and related products are yours. All comparisons are within your offerings.

    What can Fashion Brands Do To Grow?

    While there is no magic word that will ensure you successfully grow your brand, there are some tips that can help you navigate the e-commerce waters successfully.

    Optimize Your Website

    If you already have a website, you need to know that today’s consumers have high expectations for e-commerce platforms. To meet the demand, you require a stable and scalable website that can withstand traffic without crashing. Appearance and usability should be the foremost considerations.

    It should be mobile-friendly since mobile devices now account for the bulk of web traffic. Regardless of the customer’s device, you want them to get what they’re looking for conveniently. 

    You can research the best UI/UX design practices or work with professionals like us to optimize your brand’s online presence and ensure that your website meets all standards.

    Additionally, be sure that your website adheres to search engine optimization (SEO) best practices. SEO makes it easier for your brand to be found on Google and other search engines, and this in turn increases website traffic.

    Ensure Repeat Sales On Your Website 

    Regular discounts, sales, and promos will help bring repeat customers to your website. You can do this by creating coupons, and giving them to first-time customers, or customers that purchase above a certain amount. 

    Ready to take the bold step towards establishing and advancing your fashion brand? Contact Mactavis Digital now to kickstart the growth of your fashion brand.

  • How to Write Product Descriptions that Lead to Sales

    How to Write Product Descriptions that Lead to Sales

    How do you convince a customer to click the “Add to Cart” button on your e-commerce website? That is one question most webmasters have found trouble getting suitable answers too. Many people are looking for products and services online that fits their need. There are many websites that sell what you are selling, so why should anyone buy from you? The simple answer lies in the way you write product descriptions.

    A product description is a very important aspect of your online shop when it comes to conversion. It is the reason why some online shops sell more than others. Writing good product copy is not easy, as there is too much information to fit in so short a text.

    This article highlights 10 easy-to-follow rules about product description writing.

    Following these techniques and tips will help you write product copy that converts.

     

    Identify your target audience

    The very first thing you need to do when writing product copy is to define your target audience. By target audience, we mean the people that will be most interested in buying from you. Define the features that would interest your potential buyers. This is called a BUYER PERSONA. It is a breakdown of the characteristics of your potential customers.

    The following questions must come to mind when developing a buyer persona.

    • How did the person arrive at your page?
    • What are his or her interests?
    • How will this person describe this product to a friend?
    • What features or benefits would the person be looking out for?
    • Why would this person be interested in your website?

    When writing product descriptions, you must answer these questions. The buyer persona helps to specify what your customers need and want. With this in mind, answering these questions in your product copy is a way to make them buy what you are offering.

     

    Always focus on benefits rather than features

    Most e-commerce websites make the mistake of focusing on writing features rather than highlighting what the customer stands to gain by patronizing you. While features are good, benefits are better. They help sway the mind of the customer, as he or she is not necessarily interested in the mundane features of the product. They can always get that on Google. Writing about benefits tells the user how the product can benefit their day-to-day living.

    Before writing product descriptions, make an outline of the features and benefits of your product. Its aim is to increase pleasure or reduce pain points. Your product copy must reflect this.

     

    Use psychology in your product descriptions

    There is something called THE BUYER’S GUILT. It is the feeling of guilt when spending money to buy something, especially if it’s not particularly needed at that point. Use psychology when writing your product descriptions as it helps to eliminate this guilt.

    Write in a way that sounds reassuring, as you leave the customer with a feeling of happiness and satisfaction. It achieves two things which are: it helps you make a sale and also prompts a speedy return on the part of the buyer. A definite win-win situation for you. You can eliminate buyer’s guilt by letting them know it’s a one-time only offer, using words like “absolute bargain” and by making the product sound exclusive.

    You can also compliment them on finding such a bargain deal and also stating that buying the product will help them save money. Who doesn’t like saving money?

     

    Tell a story sometimes

    A product description is a perfect opportunity to elicit emotions. It should have an emotional angle as it helps them buy the product faster. Give out relevant details in a way that sounds like a story as this fills any gap potential customers may have about the product. Stories show that real-life people have benefited from using the product too.

    The story may be real or fictional, as long as it delivers a real-life perspective. It helps people connect with your brand on an emotional level rather than a transactional level.

    The following questions can help in writing a story :

    • Who made the product?
    • The inspiration behind the product
    • How would the product improve the buyer’s everyday life?

     

    Use natural language and avoid certain words

    Your potential buyer must read your products description as though they are having a real conversation with a real friend? If it does, you are one step closer to making them buy your product. Inject life into your words, rather than coming up with something that sounds like a computer-generated string of words.

    Having a natural tone will help your customer connect with your brand, as there are no sweeping generalizations or empty adjectives. Who uses those when talking to a friend? Your guess is as good as ours.

    Another thing you can do while writing product copy is to avoid the use of some words which would be highlighted below:

    • Actually, literally, honestly: These are gap fillers that people use when they can’t think of something else to say.
    • Get, got, gotten: Tell or suggest people to “buy” rather than use these words. They sound like you are advising them. You must be assertive in what you do.
    • Sorry: This just spews negativity.
    • Kind of, maybe: This word sounds as though you are not sure of what you are saying.

    Never duplicate content

    It is bad practice to duplicate copy or content. Make sure your copy is 100% unique, even if you are sure you wrote it yourself. The same copy can be online already on a different platform. Apart from having plagiarism issues, using the same content that others have used paints a picture that you don’t know your stuff and it can actually ruin a business.

    Copyscape.com helps you verify that your copy isn’t on a different website. If your copy is on another website, you have to edit it.

    Use power words and never stuff keywords

    According to Jon Morrow, power words are words that naturally elicit an emotional response in humans. When you use the words and phrases, you can convince them to take the leap and make a purchase. Words that have positive connotations such as amazing, happy, jaw-dropping, jubilant, wonderful, surprising and excited are examples of power words.

    While using power words, keyword stuffing must be avoided. Keywords stuffing is the art or practice of using too many keywords in a line or paragraph of text just to rank higher on Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs). You must use your keywords in a systematic way so as not to fall foul of search engine regulations. It’s good practice to identify these keywords (what your buyers are most likely searching for) before writing the descriptions.

    You can do your keyword research with tools such as MOZ Explorer and Keyword Planner. A good product description infused with keywords help your site SEO rankings as more people see your product when they search for these keywords on Google and other search engines. You can optimize your product’s SEO by placing your keywords in your page title, meta descriptions image tags (alt tags).

    Read our earlier post on how to optimize your site’s SEO.

     

    Capture the imagination of the buyer

    In the movie Gifted Hands, Ben Carson’s mum told him that, “Everyone’s got an imagination”. She was right, and you can tap into this for your product descriptions. Write in a way that stirs the imagination of the reader. User words that conjure up images in the buyer’s mind. Doing this keeps them coming back as you want them to feel like they are buying a lifestyle rather than a product.

    Sell in a way that doesn’t feel as though they are being sold to but like their dreams can be achieved with your product. You can do so by mentioning an event, using adjectives, or pointing out a celebrity that is using the products.

     

    Use Good images

    While being adept at writing product descriptions is good, one sure way it can lead to sales is to make sure you have high-resolution images. Images rather than text are the first attention-grabbers on a page, so you must invest in good images.

    Research has shown that a product image is more important than description or reviews from previous users. Quality images show the customer to imagine having this product in his or her life and also shows all the key features of the product in a way that text or words couldn’t have mustered.

    In using images, one key trick is to use people using the products or the products in action. It shows them that real people are already using it.

     

    Make it short

    Your product description must be able to capture the attention of people in the shortest possible time. People have very short attention spans, which implies that you should write your copy in a way that the buyer finds information quickly without wasting time.

    Make use of catchy headlines bullet points, and short paragraphs. Ideally, these paragraphs should contain a few sentences, lots of white space, and different size fonts.

    You are more likely to lose a potential customer if you have long lines of text.

     

    Final Words

    Product descriptions are all about giving reasons why the product will improve your customer’s life. The main aim of writing product copy is stepping inside the head of the customer while adhering to Google guidelines. Following the aforementioned points can help you increase sales.

    If you liked this article, you can drop messages in the comments section. Let us know what you think. You can also add other things that can be done to boost sales through product descriptions. You can check out our previous articles to join the conversation. We do hope you can learn one or two things from them.

    Get in touch with us and connect with us across social media platforms @MactavisDigital. We are a digital agency that has built expertise in web design and development, mobile app development, content production, Search Engine Optimization and other digital services. We will be glad to hear from you.