In this article, we will share simple, clear ways to grow your customer base using sales promotion ideas. Businesses of all sizes rely on promotions to attract attention, increase sales, and create lasting relationships with customers. Whether you are launching a new product, clearing out inventory, or simply looking for ways to bring in more buyers, the right sales promotion can make all the difference.
By the end of this guide, you will have a solid understanding of which ideas for sales promotion suit your business best and how to implement them effectively.
So, if you’re ready to attract more customers, improve your marketing efforts, and make your promotions work smarter, let’s get started with these sales promotion ideas that can help your business grow.
What Is Sales Promotion?
Sales promotion is a way of offering a special deal or extra incentive to customers to encourage them to make a purchase. It is not just about lowering prices; it is about giving buyers a reason to choose your product at that moment. Sales promotion may come in many forms such as discounts, free gifts, or special deals. It can be as simple as giving a coupon for a future purchase or a limited-time offer that excites customers.
The idea is to offer something that makes the customer feel like they are getting more value for their money. This method works well when you communicate the message in a clear and simple way.
When customers see a promotion, they know that they are in for a treat. This type of activity can also help people remember your brand for later. Each time a buyer gets a good deal, they become more interested in what you have to offer next. In simple terms, sales promotion is a tool that creates a win-win situation for both the seller and the customer. It helps your customers try out new products and gives you a chance to show what you can do.
Purpose Of Sales Promotion
The main goal of sales promotion is to create interest among potential buyers. It is a method to invite new customers and encourage current ones to try something new.
In Wholesale Suite, we always like to share that our sale event can make shopping fun and feel like a small celebration, most especially during our Black Friday sale. When a customer sees a good offer, they often feel more comfortable to make a purchase. It also helps a business stand out from the crowd.
A study shows that business owners gradually distribute funds across different advertising and promotional channels. Likewise, these deals from promotional channels can give customers a reason to come back again in the future. This also helps businesses get more attention in a crowded market. It is a way to let people know that your products are available at a price that feels fair. Moreover, it is a way to say thank you to people for their trust and support. The goal is to make a positive impression and build a lasting connection.
Now, after we have talked about what sales promotion means and its purpose, we will now discuss the strategies and techniques for sales promotion ideas.
Sales Promotion Ideas (Proven Techniques)
We will now share a list of many types of sale events that have worked well for us and many others. Each of these ideas has been tested by different businesses in the online space. We will explain what each one is and give examples from e-commerce that you may find familiar.
Trying out a few of these ideas has helped us see what works best for reaching new customers. Remember, these are not one-size-fits-all solutions. The success of each idea depends on how well it fits your business and your audience.
1. Flash sales
Flash sales are short-term events where products are offered at a special price for a limited time. When Wholesale Suite tried a flash sale during Black Friday Sale, we set a timer for the deal and posted it on our optins. Customers can get excited because they knew the special price would not last long. A flash sale can be used to move extra inventory or to attract people who are always looking for a deal.
This type of sale works well when you want to create urgency and get people to act quickly. In our experience, a flash sale creates a lively moment on the website. It gives buyers the chance to get something at a price they would not usually see. Also, it can serve as a fun event that people talk about with their friends.
2. Free samples
Offering free samples is a friendly way to let potential customers try your products without any risk. This idea works especially well for new products or items that customers may not be sure about. Many online brands give away a small portion of a product to let customers experience its quality.
Free samples can be part of sales promotion ideas that help to build trust and excitement. They are simple and clear, and they show that you are confident about what you offer.
3. Vouchers (discounts for future purchases)
Vouchers give customers a discount that they can use on their next purchase. These are friendly reminders that there is more value to come. They are one of the most popular sales promotion ideas among many businesses.
Some e-commerce sites include a voucher code with every delivery, which makes the customer want to try the service again. This method is also used to reward loyal customers. By saving money on the next order, customers feel like they are being rewarded for their trust.
If you want to learn more about WooCommerce vouchers, you may read: 7 Creative Ways To Distribute Store Vouchers In WooCommerce.
4. Limited-time offers (urgency-based sales)
Limited-time offers are deals that are available for only a short period. In the case of Wholesale Suite marketing, we have seen that when a deal is available for only a few hours or days, people are more likely to decide quickly.
This type of sale event makes customers act fast. Many online stores use a countdown timer to show how much time is left to claim the offer. This idea is one of the sales promotion ideas that can lead to a sudden rise in activity on the website. It is a clear message that the opportunity is not to be missed and creates the idea of “fear of missing out” or FOMO.
5. Referral discounts (reward customers for bringing new buyers)
Referral discounts give a discount to customers who bring in new buyers. Customers receive a special code that they share with friends and family. When someone new makes a purchase using that code, both the referrer and the new customer get a discount. This idea is part of sales promotion strategies that many small businesses use. It is a friendly way to grow the customer base and build a community around your brand.
6. Mystery discounts (customers get a surprise discount at checkout)
Mystery discounts are exciting because the customer does not know the exact discount until checkout. It can be a fun surprise that makes the shopping experience more interesting. Some e-commerce sites use this idea to keep the purchase process engaging. This type of offer is one of the sales promotion techniques that creates an element of fun. When customers know that there might be a mystery discount, they are often more willing to complete their purchase.
7. Free trials (for services or software)
Free trials are a great way to let customers try out a service or software without paying immediately. Wholesale Suite offers a 14-day free trial, and this always gives our customers a chance to understand if the product was right for them.
This idea is a part of sales promotion ideas that work very well in the service industry. It allows customers to experience the value of the service and decide if they want to continue with a paid version. Many online businesses use free trials as a way to introduce their products to a wider audience.
8. Customer loyalty programs
Customer loyalty programs are designed to reward customers who return time after time. This type of sale event makes customers feel special and valued. Loyalty programs are one of the sales promotion ideas that have proven to keep customers coming back.
When customers know that every purchase gives them rewards, they tend to remain more engaged with the brand. In the e-commerce world, loyalty programs are used by many stores to create a friendly bond with their buyers.
9. Joint promotions (partner with another brand)
Joint promotions involve working with another brand to offer a combined deal. This idea is one of the sales promotion strategies that can help both brands reach new audiences. By joining forces, each brand can introduce their products to the customers of the other. It creates a win-win situation for both parties, and customers often appreciate the variety. In many cases, a joint promotion offers more value than a promotion from a single brand alone.
Check out our latest integration here: WC Vendors Integration With Wholesale Prices.
10. BOGO (buy one, get one)
BOGO stands for “Buy One, Get One” and is one of the simplest sales promotion ideas. This offer is clear and easy to understand. Many customers love BOGO deals because they get more for their money. It is an effective sales promotion that creates a sense of generosity. For example, an e-commerce store selling clothing may offer BOGO on select items. When customers see the deal, they feel that their purchase is a great value.
To learn more about BOGO deals, you may also read: 7 Tried-And-True Tips To Boost BOGO Sales In WooCommerce.
11. Social media giveaways
Social media giveaways are promotions that take place on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. This type of offer is one of the marketing ideas that helps to increase sales and attract new buyers. It is also a friendly way to interact with your audience. A giveaway can create a lot of excitement and bring many new visitors to your website. Many e-commerce brands use social media giveaways to create a lively online community.
12. Holiday promotions
Holiday promotions are sales events that take place during special occasions. During holidays, many customers are looking for gifts and good offers. This type of sale event is one of the sales promotion techniques that helps to capture the spirit of the season. An online store might offer a discount during a national holiday or a festive season. These promotions make the holiday shopping experience more enjoyable for everyone.
You may also read: Top 6 Holiday Promotions To Offer Wholesale Customers This Year.
13. Add-ons (special discounted extras at checkout)
Add-ons are extra items or services offered at a reduced price when a customer makes a purchase. You may have seen many stores add small items like accessories or warranties at a discount during checkout. This idea is one of the sales promotion ideas that can encourage a customer to spend a little more. It gives buyers a chance to improve their purchase with a small extra cost.
14. Digital codes
Digital codes are special codes that customers can use to get discounts, free shipping, or free gifts. These codes are one of the sales promotion strategies that add excitement to the purchase process. Customers simply enter the code at checkout, and the discount is applied automatically. This method is popular among many e-commerce sites and is a smart way to attract buyers.
15. Rebates (partial refunds after purchase)
Rebates offer customers a partial refund after they have made a purchase. This type of offer is one of the sales promotion techniques that works well when the full discount is not given at the time of sale. Instead, customers get some money back later, which can be a pleasant surprise. Many online stores use rebates to give customers a reason to try their products without a high upfront discount.
16. Free gifts with purchase
Free gifts with purchase are simple offers where a customer receives an extra item when they buy a product. This idea is one of the sales promotion ideas that makes customers feel appreciated. It is a straightforward offer that gives added value to the purchase. Some e-commerce brands use this method to thank customers for choosing them. When a free gift is included, it often leaves a lasting impression.
You may also read: How To Run A Free Gift Card Giveaway In WooCommerce (Guide).
17. Abandoned cart promotions
Abandoned cart promotions are a friendly reminder sent to customers who leave items in their shopping cart without completing the purchase. This idea is one of the sales promotion strategies that helps to recover potential sales. It serves as a gentle nudge to complete the order and often includes a discount as an incentive. This approach has worked well for many online stores that want to recapture interested buyers.
18. Pre-order discounts (early bird pricing for new launches)
Pre-order discounts are offers made to customers who place an order before a product is officially released. This idea is one of the sales promotion ideas that rewards customers for their early support. It creates a sense of anticipation and makes customers feel part of a special group. E-commerce stores use pre-order discounts to generate early interest and sales.
19. Happy hour campaigns
Happy hour campaigns are sales events held for a short period during the day when special discounts are offered. This idea is one of the sales promotion techniques that create a fun and busy shopping period. It gives customers a chance to get deep discounts on items they have been eyeing. The limited-time nature of the campaign encourages quick decisions, which can lead to more purchases.
20. Charitable cause promotions (donate % of sales)
Charitable cause promotions are offers where a part of the sales is donated to a charity or a good cause. In Wholesale Suite, we have felt honored about donating a percentage of our sales during our Green Monday Sale to organizations that support causes we care about.
In a marketing aspect, this idea is one of the sales promotion ideas that builds a positive image of the brand. It creates a win-win situation: customers get a good deal, and a portion of the money goes to help others. Many online stores use this method to connect with socially conscious buyers and create awareness for global causes.
21. Customized products with discounts
Customized products with discounts allow customers to personalize their purchase while still getting a special price. This is one of the sales promotion ideas that can make a product feel unique and special. It encourages customers to choose your brand when they want something tailored to their needs.
22. App-exclusive deals (discounts for mobile app users)
App-exclusive deals are promotions available only to those who use the store’s mobile app. This idea is one of the sales promotion strategies that makes customers feel like they are part of an exclusive club. When you see a special offer on an app, it can be a pleasant surprise that makes the shopping experience more personal.
23. Spin-to-win promotions (interactive discount wheels)
Spin-to-win promotions involve an interactive wheel that gives customers a chance to win discounts. This idea is one of the sales promotion techniques that brings an element of surprise and enjoyment. Customers spin the wheel and may win a discount or a free item. It is a playful way to attract attention and encourage interaction.
24. Coupons
Coupons are simple pieces of paper or digital codes that offer a discount on a purchase. This is one of the sales promotion ideas that is straightforward and reliable. Many customers appreciate the clarity of a coupon and the savings it provides. Coupons can be shared easily among friends and family, making them a popular choice.
25. Subscription discounts (lower prices for recurring orders)
Subscription discounts are offers that reduce the price for customers who sign up for recurring orders. This idea is one of the sales promotion techniques that encourages customers to stick with a service over the long term. It is a simple way to reward loyalty by offering a lower price for each repeated order.
26. Upgrade discounts
Upgrade discounts give customers a special price when they decide to move to a higher version of a product. You may have seen cases where a customer started with a basic plan and then switched to a premium version because of a good offer. This is one of the sales promotion ideas that chooses to upgrade to a more attractive offer. It shows that there is value in spending a little more for extra features.
27. Feedback campaigns (discounts for leaving a review)
Feedback campaigns offer discounts to customers who leave a review after their purchase. I have participated in these campaigns, and they help me feel that my opinion matters. This idea is one of the sales promotion strategies that builds a closer connection with the buyer. When customers share their thoughts, they are rewarded with a discount for their next purchase. This method also helps the business get better insight into what customers think.
28. Birthday discounts (personalized deals for customers)
Birthday discounts are special offers given to customers on their birthday. This is one of the sales promotion ideas that adds a personal touch to the shopping experience. It makes customers feel remembered and valued on their special day.
29. Product bundles
Product bundles offer a group of products together at a lower price than buying them separately. This idea is one of the sales promotion techniques that make it simple for customers to get more for their money. Bundles can be arranged in many ways to suit different needs and interests.
30. Product discounts (percentage or fixed amount)
Product discounts are the classic way of reducing the price of an item by a set percentage or amount. This is one of the sales promotion ideas that is straightforward and familiar. Customers understand immediately what they will save and are more likely to buy when the discount is clear.
You may also read: How To Choose Between Percentage And Fixed Bulk Order Discounts.
31. Free shipping
Free shipping is an offer where customers do not have to pay extra for the delivery of their order. Many consumers have often chosen a store that offers free shipping because it makes the overall price lower. This idea is one of the sales promotion strategies that can sway a buyer’s decision at the checkout. Free shipping is a simple offer that many customers appreciate, and it makes shopping online easier.
You may also read: Setting Up WooCommerce Shipping Options (A Full Guide).
32. Recurring promotions (monthly, seasonal, etc.)
Recurring promotions are regular sale events that happen on a monthly or seasonal basis. This is one of the sales promotion techniques that keep the buying cycle active and exciting. Regular deals make it easy for customers to plan their purchases around a schedule.
33. Same-day delivery promotions
Same-day delivery promotions are offers where customers receive their products on the same day they order. This idea is one of the sales promotion ideas that caters to the need for speed and convenience. It is an attractive option for customers who do not want to wait.
34. Punch cards (buy X, get one free)
Punch cards are a way to reward customers for repeated purchases. You have seen these cards in local stores and online, and they work well to remind customers to return. This is one of the sales promotion strategies that creates a simple and clear reward system. When customers fill up their card, they know they have earned something extra. It is an easy way to build loyalty through repeated visits.
35. Influencer partnerships (discounts through influencer codes)
Influencer partnerships involve working with popular online figures who share a special discount code with their followers. This idea is one of the sales promotion techniques that brings a friendly, real-life recommendation to the fore. When an influencer shares a code, it can be a great way to reach new customers who trust that person’s opinion. You may often see these promotions on social media or during a livestream.
36. Scavenger hunts (find hidden deals on website/socials)
Scavenger hunts are fun activities where customers search for hidden deals on a website or social media. This is one of the marketing strategies that can be an engaging way to interact with a brand. This is also one of the sales promotion ideas that turns shopping into a game. It encourages customers to explore the website and can lead to surprising discounts.
37. VIP sales
VIP sales are special events that are available only to top customers. This idea is one of the sales promotion strategies that reward repeat business. When customers are invited to a VIP sale, they may feel like they are part of an exclusive group that receives extra care.
38. Contests and sweepstakes
Contests and sweepstakes offer customers a chance to win prizes by participating in a simple activity. It encourages customer participation and can create a lively online community. This is one of the sales promotion techniques that add a playful twist to the buying process.
39. Lifestyle discounts (seniors, military, students, etc.)
Lifestyle discounts are special offers available to specific groups such as seniors, military personnel, or students. You may have been to grocery stores that offer these kinds of discounts, and they are appreciated by those who qualify. This idea is one of the sales promotion ideas that speaks directly to the needs of a group, or a kind way to say thank you to customers who meet the criteria.
40. Discounts on first purchase for new customers
Discounts on first purchase for new customers are a friendly way to welcome people to your store. Customers can be encouraged to try a new store when they see an offer for first-time buyers. This is one of the sales promotion strategies that gives new customers a warm introduction, which can also be a deciding factor for someone curious about a new product or service.
Tips For Running Sales Promotions
If you’ve ever run a sales promotion that flopped —where nobody used the coupon or took advantage of the deal— you’re not alone. The key is to structure your promotions in a way that makes customers feel like they’re getting a real win. After working with countless eCommerce businesses and seeing what works, here are battle-tested strategies that can drive sales without killing your margins.
1. Know your customers
One mistake many store owners make is assuming all their customers are the same. To give more light, you must understand that wholesale buyers don’t shop like retail customers—they’re looking for bulk savings, reliable suppliers, and long-term relationships. This is where Wholesale Suite comes in handy.
💡 What works?
Instead of a one-size-fits-all discount, use tiered pricing based on order quantity. This means the more a customer buys, the more they save. Wholesale Prices Premium makes it easy to set this up.
Example:
- 10+ items → Get 10% off
- 20+ items → Get 20% off
- 50+ items → Get 30% off
This pushes customers to increase their order size, maximizing your revenue per sale.
2. Create limited-time offers
If you don’t put a deadline on your promotions, many customers will procrastinate—and procrastination means lost sales. Adding a time limit creates urgency, which makes customers feel they need to act now.
💡 What works?
Use Advanced Coupons to create discount codes that expire within 24-48 hours. This works especially well during peak shopping periods like Black Friday, end-of-season sales, or product launches.
Example:
- Use code BULKFRIDAY for 30% off orders over $500 (expires in 48 hours).
- Flash sale: BOGO (Buy One, Get One) free for 24 hours only!
You can even add a countdown timer on your website to remind customers of the deal before it’s gone.
3. Bundle products for more sales
One of the easiest ways to increase your average order value is by bundling related products together. Customers feel like they’re getting more value for their money, and you move more inventory—win-win!
💡 What works?
Use Advanced Coupons’ BOGO and bundle discount features to encourage bulk purchases. You can also use Wholesale Suite’s product visibility settings to show exclusive bundles only to wholesale buyers.
4. Offer free shipping for big orders
Shipping costs can be a deal-breaker for wholesale customers. Many buyers abandon their carts when they see high shipping fees. One proven strategy to increase order value is to offer free shipping for larger purchases.
💡 What works?
Use Wholesale Suite to set free shipping thresholds based on cart value. If customers know they only need to add a few more items to unlock free shipping, they’ll be more likely to increase their order.
5. Promote your deals
A promotion is only as good as its visibility. You could have the best discount in the world, but if customers don’t know about it, it’s useless. Promote your sales aggressively across multiple channels to get the best results.
💡 What works?
- Email marketing – Send a series of reminder emails about your sale.
- Pop-ups & banners – Show a site-wide banner or an exit-intent pop-up with the discount details.
- Social media – Share your promo with countdowns and limited-time announcements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 7 types of promotion?
There are many ways to promote a product, but we will share seven simple types that we have seen work well. First, there are price discounts that lower the cost of a product. Second, free offers, such as free gifts or samples, give extra value to the buyer.
Third, coupons offer a set amount off future purchases. Fourth, referral promotions reward customers for bringing new buyers. Fifth, contests and sweepstakes provide a chance to win prizes. Sixth, loyalty programs reward repeat customers with benefits over time.
Lastly, limited-time offers create a sense of urgency by limiting the period of the deal. Each of these types plays a role in attracting customers and is used in different ways to meet different needs.
Which sales promotion is most effective?
The most effective sales promotion is one that makes the customer feel appreciated. Many customers respond well to offers that include gifts or special discounts on their first purchase. Another method that often works is a referral discount, which encourages word-of-mouth. The best choice depends on the product and the audience. Having a mix of different ideas, chosen carefully, can lead to a strong result.
How do you promote sales?
Promoting sales can be done in many simple ways. First, you can start by using clear and friendly language in your advertisements. Next, you might email your customers a special discount code. Social media is also a great place to share your offers. When you straightforwardly show the benefits, people are more likely to respond. Combining these methods helps create a full picture that draws customers in.
How to attract customers in sales?
Attracting customers in sales starts with a clear and honest offer. You can use social media and email to tell a clear story about why your offer is good. It also helps to have a friendly website that shows the discount in a way that is easy to understand. Sometimes, a personal note or a customer review makes a big difference. By sharing real stories and using clear details, you can invite customers to give your product a try.
Takeaways
In summary, the ideas we discussed showed that there are many ways to use sales promotion ideas to grow your customer base. We shared many methods that we have seen work in the real world. Each idea, from flash sales to referral discounts, comes with its benefits and can be adjusted to fit the needs of your business. When you share these simple ideas with your customers, you create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
In this article, we discussed sales promotion ideas to invite new customers:
- What is sales promotion?
- Purpose of sales promotion
- Sales promotion ideas
- Tips for running sales promotions
Whether it is through a flash sale or a special voucher, each technique is a tool in your toolbox. Lastly, we hope that these ideas help you start planning your sale events. Remember, using good marketing ideas along with sales promotion strategies and sales promotion techniques can make a big difference in your business.
Do you have additional suggestions about sales promotion ideas we tackled? Let us know in the comments!
