Instead of encouraging users to build a large cart for a single checkout, optimize the user experience for immediate, single-item purchases. This reduces friction and builds a habit of frequent, low-consideration transactions, leading to higher long-term LTV than optimizing for AOV.

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The traditional 'value ladder' model incorrectly assumes customers purchase offers sequentially. A 'value grid' is a superior model because it accounts for non-linear buying behavior, where customers skip steps or purchase based on specific needs. This provides a more accurate and actionable tool for calculating and increasing lifetime value.

Instead of offering direct discounts, which can devalue products, consider a double or triple loyalty point event. This strategy incentivizes customers to spend more to earn future rewards, effectively driving sales while encouraging repeat visits and fostering long-term loyalty. It costs little while giving customers a strong incentive.

Instead of focusing solely on conversion rates, measure 'engagement quality'—metrics that signal user confidence, like dwell time, scroll depth, and journey progression. The philosophy is that if you successfully help users understand the content and feel confident, conversions will naturally follow as a positive side effect.

Create extreme urgency by offering a high discount for a very short window (e.g., 30 minutes), then progressively lower discounts for subsequent time blocks. This gamified approach forces immediate purchase decisions by making customers feel they will lose out on the best deal if they wait.

Don't just offer a single product with a price. Turn the buy box into a strategic merchandising area by offering curated bundles (e.g., 1, 3, or 5 packs) that provide better value or convenience. This guided buying experience can significantly increase Average Order Value (AOV).

Counterintuitively, providing new, varied bonuses frequently can keep customers engaged longer than a single, large permanent upgrade. This is because customers quickly get used to permanent features, while novelty continually recaptures their interest.

For consumers under 35, cart abandonment is no longer just a sign of friction—it's a deliberate strategy to solicit a discount. Brands relying on standard ESPs miss most of these high-intent moments, while identity resolution can increase identification of these opportunities by up to 10x.

While transparent, all-in pricing feels better to consumers, high-performing online stores consistently use 'drip pricing'—adding taxes and shipping fees late in the checkout process. This psychological hack works by getting users invested in the purchase before revealing the full cost, making them less likely to abandon their cart. This suggests that in competitive markets, psychological optimization often outperforms straightforward pricing.

Increase customer spending by analyzing their entire workflow, not just their interaction with your product. Identify products they purchase before using your solution. By offering these yourself (e.g., design templates for a marketing tool), you can increase your "share of wallet" and LTV.

Counter-intuitively, for price-sensitive markets, decreasing average order value (AOV) is a key growth lever. A lower entry price point unlocks a larger segment of the population, increasing transaction frequency, building habits, and ultimately driving higher lifetime value.

Discourage Shopping Carts to Optimize for Transaction Frequency and Habit Formation | RiffOn