7 Whatsapp Marketing Ideas For eCommerce Stores & Some Great Examples

When we say that online stores should invest in a WhatsApp marketing strategy, we mean it. 

And we have statistics to back us up.

✅ WhatsApp messages have a 98% open rate, making it one of the most effective messaging platforms for direct communication.

✅ 90% of messages are read within 3 minutes of being sent, which is significantly faster than emails, where response times are often much longer.

✅ Over 70% of eCommerce sales are made via mobile devices, and WhatsApp is seamlessly integrated into this mobile-first shopping experience

So, how can you implement WhatsApp marketing to boost conversions? Let’s dive in!

7 Whatsapp Marketing Strategies for eCommerce Stores 

1. Re-engage Abandoned Carts

WhatsApp Strategy: Send a WhatsApp message reminding customers about their abandoned cart within 30-60 minutes of abandonment.

How to Personalize your WhatsApp Message:

• Use the customer’s first name
• Show the specific product(s) left in the cart
• Offer a quick checkout link
  📌 Example Message:
  "Hey [Name], we noticed you left [Product Name] in your cart. It’s still available, but stock is running low! Complete your order now: [Checkout Link]"

When should you send personalized cart reminders on WhatsApp?

Timing plays a crucial role in your WhatsApp cart recovery strategy. 

The best approach is a multi-step follow-up sequence:

First Reminder (30-60 Minutes After Abandonment) – Gentle Nudge

• Customers are still in shopping mode, so this is the best time to remind them.
• Keep it friendly and helpful, not pushy.
• Include product image & quick checkout link.

Example Message:
👋 Hey [Name], did something distract you?
You left [Product Name] in your cart! It’s still available, but stock is running low! 🚀

🛒 Resume your checkout now: [Checkout Link]

🛍️ [Product Image]

Need help? Reply “HELP” to chat with our team! 💬

Second Reminder (12-24 Hours Later) – Incentive & Urgency

• If the first reminder doesn’t convert, offer a small incentive (e.g., 5-10% discount or free shipping).
• Add a sense of urgency (cart expiring soon, limited stock).
• Address common hesitations (returns, quality, payment security).

Example Message:
🚀 Final Chance, [Name]!
Your cart with [Product Name] is still waiting! We’re offering you FREE shipping if you complete your purchase in the next 12 hours!

🎁 Use code: FREESHIP at checkout!
🔗 Checkout Now: [Checkout Link]

🔥 Only a few left in stock! Don’t miss out.

Final Reminder (48 Hours Later) – “Last Call” Before Cart Expires

• If the customer hasn’t purchased yet, send a final warning before the cart expires.
• Use FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) by stating that the cart will be cleared or the product will sell out soon.

Example Message:
⏳ Last Chance, [Name]!
Your cart is about to expire in 2 hours! Don’t lose [Product Name] – grab it before it’s gone!

🚀 Checkout now & get a surprise gift! 🎁

🛍️ [Checkout Now] [Link]

2. Automate Common Customer Support Queries 

Set up a WhatsApp chatbot to instantly handle frequently asked questions (FAQs) about your eCommerce store and products.

Reduce human intervention by automating responses to:

• Order Status 
• Payment issues 
• Return & refund policies 
• Shipping & delivery tracking 
• Product availability 

Example Automated Response for Order Tracking:

👋 Hey [Name]! Need help with your order?

Track your order here: [Tracking Link]

Reply with:

📦 1 – Check Order Status

💰 2 – Refund/Return Request

📞 3 – Talk to an Agent

3. Use Real-Time Order Tracking 

WhatsApp real-time order tracking & updates provide instant notifications, reducing customer anxiety and support requests while increasing brand reliability.

Here’s why it works:

• Instant Notifications – 98% open rates ensure customers never miss an update.
• Real-Time Tracking – Live status updates on order confirmation, shipping, and delivery.
• Reduces Support Queries – Fewer “Where’s my order?” (WISMO) requests.
• Enhances Customer Experience – Transparent communication builds trust.
• Supports Rich Media – Send images, tracking links, maps, and videos.

Key WhatsApp Notifications for Order Tracking

a. Order Confirmation Message (Immediately After Purchase)

Purpose: Assures the customer that their order was received successfully.

Example Message:
Order Confirmed! 🛍️
Hey [Name], thanks for shopping with us! Your order #[Order Number] has been placed successfully. 

📦 Order Summary:
[Product Name] – ₹1999
Shipping Address: [Customer’s Address]
Estimated Delivery: [Delivery Date]

Track your order: [Tracking Link]

Need help? Reply "SUPPORT" to chat with us!

b. Order Shipped Notification (When Order is Dispatched)

Purpose: Inform the customer that their order is on the way, reducing anxiety.

Example Message:
Your Order is on the Way!
Hey [Name], great news! Your order #[Order Number] has been shipped. 🏃‍♂️

Carrier: [Courier Name]
Tracking Link: [Tracking Link]
Expected Delivery: [Delivery Date]

Stay excited! 🎉

c. Live Order Tracking Updates

Purpose: To keep customers updated on the order’s real-time movement.

Example Message:
Your order is out for delivery! 🚚
Hey [Name], your package #[Order Number] is on its way to you and will arrive today! 🎉

Track in real-time: [Tracking Link]

Be ready to receive it! Need help? Reply "SUPPORT"

d. Delivery Confirmation & Feedback Request

Purpose: Confirm successful delivery and collect feedback.

Example Message:

Delivered! 🚚
Hey [Name], your order #[Order Number] has been delivered! We hope you love it. ❤️

How was your experience?
Loved it! – [Google Review Link]
It was okay. – [Feedback Form]
Not happy? – Reply & we’ll make it right!

e. Delayed Order Update

Purpose: To keep customers informed if there is a delay.

Example Message:
Update on Your Order
Hey [Name], we’re sorry! Your order #[Order Number] is facing an unexpected delay due to [Reason].

New Estimated Delivery: [New Date]
Track Your Order: [Tracking Link]

We truly appreciate your patience! ❤️ Reply SUPPORT if you need assistance.

f. Failed Delivery Attempt Notification

Purpose: Notify the customer if delivery was unsuccessful and allow rescheduling.

Example Message:
Missed Delivery Attempt
Hey [Name], we tried delivering your order #[Order Number], but we couldn’t reach you.

New Attempt: Tomorrow
Reschedule Here: [Reschedule Link]

Reply "HELP" if you need support.

4. Smoothen Out Your Product Returns/Exchanges 

30% of all products bought online are returned.

Here’s how WhatsApp can help your marketing strategy:

• Instant & Automated Return Requests – Reduce customer frustration with a simple one-click return process.
• Real-Time Updates – Keep customers informed about their refund status.
• Lower Support Workload – Automate FAQs, return requests, and refund policies.
• Higher Customer Retention – A smooth return experience increases brand trust.
• Personalized Assistance – Resolve issues faster via chatbots or live agents.

Key WhatsApp Notifications To Send

a. Easy Return Request Initiation

Purpose: Make return initiation quick and hassle-free.

Example Message:
Want to Return Your Order?
Hey [Name], we’re sorry that [Product Name] didn’t meet your expectations. You can request a return in seconds!

Order ID: #[Order Number]
Eligible Until: [Return Deadline]
Start Return: [Return Request Link]

Need help? Reply "SUPPORT" to chat with us.

b. Return Pickup Scheduled Notification

Purpose: Notify customers when their return is scheduled for pickup.

Example Message:

Return Pickup Scheduled!

Hey [Name], we’ve scheduled a pickup for your return #[Order Number] on [Pickup Date].

Courier: [Courier Partner]

Track Pickup Status: [Tracking Link]

Make sure the package is ready! Need to reschedule? Reply "RESCHEDULE".

c. Refund Processed Notification

Purpose: Inform customers when their refund is approved or processed.

Example Message:

Refund Processed Successfully!

Hey [Name], we’ve processed your refund of ₹[Amount] for order #[Order Number].

Refund Method: [Payment Mode]

Expected Credit Date: [Refund Date]

Check your bank statement for confirmation. Need help? Reply "SUPPORT".

d. Refund Delayed Notification

Purpose: Keep customers informed if there’s a delay in their refund.

Example Message:

Refund Update for Order #[Order Number]

Hey [Name], we’re facing a slight delay in processing your refund.

New Expected Refund Date: [Date]

Amount: ₹[Amount]

We truly appreciate your patience! Need urgent help? Reply "SUPPORT".

5. Personalize Product Recommendations 

According to research, product recommendations can account for up to 31% of an ecommerce store's revenue.

On average, customers buy 12% of their total items from recommended products.

Here’s why this WhatsApp marketing strategy works: 

• Higher Engagement – 98% open rate and 45-60% response rate on WhatsApp messages.
• Personalized Shopping Experience – AI-driven recommendations based on purchase behavior.
• Faster Conversions – Customers can directly purchase products from WhatsApp.
• Reduce Cart Abandonment – Recommend complementary products to encourage checkout.
• Supports Rich Media – Send images, videos, and buttons for seamless shopping.

Types of Product Recommendations via WhatsApp

a. Personalized Recommendations Based on Past Purchases

Purpose: Suggest products based on the customer’s previous orders.

Example Message:

Hey [Name], You Might Love These!

Since you bought [Previous Product], we thought you’d like these too:

[Product 1] – [Image & Link]

[Product 2] – [Image & Link]

[Product 3] – [Image & Link]

Get 10% OFF if you order within 24 hours! Use code WHATSAPP10

Tap to Buy Now!

b. AI-Driven Browsing-Based Recommendations

Purpose: Suggest products based on browsing behavior & interests.

Example Message:

Still Looking for the Perfect Match, [Name]?

We noticed you were checking out these styles. Grab them before they sell out!

[Product Name 1] – [Image & Link]

[Product Name 2] – [Image & Link]

Order now & get FREE Shipping on your purchase today! 

Need help choosing? Reply “ASSIST” to chat with an expert.

c. Cart-Based Upsell & Cross-Sell Recommendations

Purpose: Increase AOV by recommending complementary products.

Example Message:

Almost Ready, [Name]! Complete Your Look:

Your cart is waiting, and we’ve picked some perfect matches for your order:

[Main Product in Cart]

[Matching Product] – [Image & Link]

[Another Complementary Product] – [Image & Link]

Buy Together & Get 10% OFF! Offer valid for 3 hours only.

Complete Your Order Now [Checkout Link]

d. New Arrivals & Exclusive Drops

Purpose: Promote fresh inventory or exclusive collections.

Example Message:

New Arrivals Just Dropped!

Hey [Name], we just launched exclusive styles you’ll love! Be the first to grab them.

[Product 1] – [Image & Link]

[Product 2] – [Image & Link]

Limited stock available! Order now & get a special gift. 

Need recommendations? Reply "HELP"!

e. Holiday & Seasonal Product Suggestions

Purpose: Promote curated seasonal or festive shopping collections.

Example Message:

Holiday Deals Just for You, [Name]!

Get ready for the season with our bestsellers! 

[Holiday Product 1] – [Image & Link]

[Gift Set 2] – [Image & Link]

Special Offer: Buy now & get FREE gift wrapping! 

Hurry! Limited-time deal. 

f. Replenishment Reminders for Consumable Products

Purpose: Encourage repeat purchases for subscription-based or frequently used products.

Example Message:

Time for a Refill, [Name]?

We noticed you might be running low on [Product Name]. Reorder now & get 5% OFF!

Order Now: [Reorder Link]

Next-Day Delivery Available!

Reply "YES" to reorder instantly.

6. Use WhatsApp As Part Of Your Product Launch  

When compared to email open rates, which can be as low as 20-30%, WhatsApp messages have one of the highest open rates of any marketing channel (98%), ensuring that your launch announcements and offers reach your audience effectively.

WhatsApp Marketing Tactics for Product Launch

a. Teaser Campaigns (Build Excitement Before Launch)

Purpose: Build anticipation by sending sneak peeks, countdowns, or cryptic messages that pique curiosity.

Example Message:

Something BIG is Coming Soon!

Hey [Name], we’ve got something new in the works, and we can’t wait to share it with you! 🤫

Stay tuned for an exclusive preview of what’s coming…

Mark your calendar for [Launch Date]!

Tap “YES” to get first dibs!

b. Launch Day Announcements (Major Event)

Purpose: Announce the product launch in real-time and create urgency for early adoption.

Example Message:

It’s Here! The wait is over, [Name]!

Our latest product, [Product Name], is now LIVE and ready for you to experience! 

🌟 Why You’ll Love It:

[Feature 1]

[Feature 2]

[Feature 3]

Grab Yours Now [Link] – Limited Stock Available!

Need help? Reply “SUPPORT” for more info

c. Exclusive Pre-Launch or VIP Access

Purpose: Offer loyal customers or WhatsApp contacts early access or an exclusive deal to create a sense of VIP treatment.

Example Message:

Exclusive VIP Access for You, [Name]!

As one of our top supporters, we’re giving you early access to our [Product Name] launch before it’s available to the public! 

Shop Now & use "VIP10" for a 10% Discount.

Hurry, only available for the next 24 hours!

[Shop Now Link]

d. WhatsApp Group for Launch Updates & Live Q&A

Purpose: Create a WhatsApp group where customers can get real-time updates, ask questions, and interact with brand representatives. This creates a sense of community and exclusivity.

Example Message:

Join Our Exclusive Launch Group!

Be part of our VIP [Product Name] launch community and get access to:

Real-time updates

Live Q&A with our product experts

e. Post-Launch Follow-up (Reviews & Feedback)

Purpose: After the product has launched, engage customers by asking for reviews and feedback to create social proof and further sales momentum.

Example Message:

We’d Love to Hear from You, [Name]!

Now that you’ve tried our new [Product Name], we’d love to hear your thoughts! 

Leave a review and get 10% OFF your next purchase!

[Link to review page]

Need help? We’re always here for you! Reply "HELP" for assistance.

7. Cross-promotion with Other Channels

WhatsApp serves as a highly interactive and personalized tool, but when combined with email, social media, and paid advertising, it can create a seamless omnichannel experience that enhances your overall marketing strategy.

a. Email Marketing + WhatsApp

Purpose: Drive customers from email newsletters to WhatsApp for more personalized interactions and offers.

Strategy - Include WhatsApp Opt-In Links in Email Campaigns

Add a WhatsApp CTA (Call to Action) in your email newsletters, encouraging customers to join your WhatsApp list for exclusive offers, product recommendations, and quick customer support.

Example:

📧 In the email:
"Want to get personalized product recommendations? Join our exclusive WhatsApp list and chat with us directly for special offers!"

🔗 WhatsApp Opt-In Link:
"Click here to join now!" (Link to WhatsApp group or direct chat)

Strategy - Use WhatsApp for Follow-Up on Email Campaigns 

After sending out a product announcement or promotional email, follow up on WhatsApp with personalized messages, answering any customer questions and offering special discounts.

Example:

Email: “Check out our new collection!”

WhatsApp Follow-Up: “Hey [Name], we noticed you checked out our new collection. Can I help you find something perfect for you?”

b. Social Media + WhatsApp

Purpose: Drive social media followers to WhatsApp for personalized support, VIP offers, and exclusive updates.

Strategy - Add WhatsApp Link to Social Media Profiles: Include a WhatsApp link in your Instagram bio, Facebook page, and Twitter profile so followers can quickly contact you for personalized shopping assistance.

Example:

Instagram Bio:

"Chat with us on WhatsApp for exclusive offers and product recommendations! [WhatsApp Link]"

Share WhatsApp CTA in Posts & Stories: Create social media posts or stories encouraging your followers to join your WhatsApp list for early access, special deals, and one-on-one support.

Example Post:

“Want VIP access to our latest launch? Join our exclusive WhatsApp group today! [Link]”

Use WhatsApp for Social Media Contests or Giveaways: Host a contest or giveaway and have participants join your WhatsApp list for entries or to receive an exclusive promo code.

Example:

"Join our WhatsApp group for a chance to win a [Product] and get exclusive launch updates. Sign up now [WhatsApp Link]!"

c. SMS Marketing + WhatsApp

Purpose: Use SMS to capture initial interest and then drive customers to WhatsApp for more personalized communication.

Strategy - Combine SMS Alerts with WhatsApp Invitations 

Send an SMS alert about a sale or product launch, and then encourage recipients to join your WhatsApp list for more details and exclusive access.

Example:

“Hi [Name], we just launched our [Product Name]! Get an exclusive 10% OFF by joining us on WhatsApp for a limited time. Click here to join.”

Whatsapp Marketing Strategy Example from e.l.f Cosmetics 

e.l.f. Cosmetics is a great example of an eCommerce brand using WhatsApp marketing to enhance customer engagement, build brand loyalty, and drive sales. 

Here’s an overview of how e.l.f. Cosmetics effectively use WhatsApp as part of their marketing strategy:

e.l.f. Cosmetics uses WhatsApp pop-ups on its website to encourage visitors to join its WhatsApp list for exclusive updates, promotions, and customer support.

Once a customer subscribes to the WhatsApp list, they are immediately sent a welcome message via WhatsApp containing the first-order discount code. 

The message is personalized and highlights the benefits they just unlocked.

This message provides a discount and a direct shopping link, making it easy for customers to make a purchase.

e.l.f. Cosmetics leverage WhatsApp to send personalized product recommendations based on customer preferences and previous purchases. 

For instance, a customer who has purchased a foundation might receive messages about matching concealers, setting powders, or new product launches. 

These recommendations make customers feel valued and encourage repeat purchases.

Additionally, e.l.f. offers live consultations through WhatsApp, where customers can interact with beauty experts who provide tips, tutorials, and product suggestions based on the customer's unique needs.

WhatsApp Marketing Strategy for eCommerce - FAQs

1. How can I collect WhatsApp subscribers for my eCommerce store?

You can collect subscribers by:

• Add a WhatsApp opt-in pop-up on your website offering discounts, exclusive offers, or free resources in exchange for joining your WhatsApp list.
• Run social media campaigns with WhatsApp links that direct followers to join your list for special updates and promotions.
• Use SMS, email, or in-store sign-ups to encourage customers to opt in to your WhatsApp list.

2. Is WhatsApp marketing compliant with data privacy regulations?

Yes, WhatsApp marketing can be compliant with regulations like GDPR and CCPA if you follow best practices. You need to:

• Obtain explicit consent from customers to contact them on WhatsApp.
• Provide an opt-out option in every message so customers can easily unsubscribe.
• Protect customer data and use it only for intended purposes (e.g., promotions, support).

3. What are some advanced WhatsApp marketing strategies for eCommerce?

• Rich Media Messages: Send images, videos, and product catalogs via WhatsApp to make your messages more engaging.
• WhatsApp Stories: Use WhatsApp Status for limited-time offers and behind-the-scenes content to engage with your audience.
• Interactive WhatsApp Chatbots: Implement chatbots to offer instant replies, recommend products, and guide customers through purchasing steps.
• Loyalty Program Integration: Integrate your loyalty program with WhatsApp by sending subscribers personalized offers and reward updates.

4. How can I measure the effectiveness of my WhatsApp marketing campaigns?

Track the following key performance indicators (KPIs):

• Open rate: How many people opened your messages?
• Click-through rate (CTR): How many people clicked on links or offers.
• Conversion rate: How many recipients purchased after receiving a WhatsApp message.
• Opt-out rate: How many customers unsubscribed from your WhatsApp list?
• Customer engagement: Responses and interactions with your messages.

Final word

98% of visitors who visit an eCommerce site—drop off without buying anything.

Reason: User experience issues that cause friction for visitors.

And Convertcart solves for exactly that.

We help eCommerce brands optimize their websites to boost their conversions.

We've helped 500+ eCommerce stores (in the US) improve user experience—and 2X their conversion rate.

How do we do this?

Our conversion experts can audit your site—identify UX issues, and suggest changes to turn more of your visitors into customers.