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Conversion rate
22 Best Tools for Conversion Rate Optimisation in 2024
High website traffic but low conversions? You're not alone.
Countless businesses struggle with leaky conversion funnels that drain leads and revenue.
We've analysed over 100 brands' conversion funnels, and the secret weapon to fixing them is CRO (Conversion Rate Optimisation) tools.
They help you dissect user behaviour, identify conversion roadblocks, and craft a frictionless journey that turns visitors into raving fans.
In this article, we'll explore the best 22 tools to increase your conversion rate in 2024, providing insights into their features and pricing!
1. Delivery & inventory management
70% of customers will abandon their cart if the delivery is too expensive.
Many e-commerce businesses overlook a crucial conversion killer: slow and expensive delivery or stock out.
Optimising your shipping and inventory management steamlines your fulfilment and ensures a smooth checkout process, boosting conversions.
1.1 Bigblue
Bigblue is the leading fulfilment company in Europe for e-commerce and omnichannel brands.
Key features
- Warehousing across Europe (FR, ES, UK) for faster, cheaper deliveries
- User-friendly dashboard for inventory & orders tracking
- Smart carrier selection to optimise shipping costs
- Branded unboxing & dynamic delivery dates for your product page
- Easy returns & integrations with popular platforms (Shopify, Magento, etc.)
- Sustainable practices
Pricing
Bigblue has scalable plans for businesses of all sizes (500+ to 20,000+ monthly orders) and usage-based pricing for tracking & returns. Get a quote here.
1.2 Global-e
Global-e helps online stores sell internationally with ease. They handle everything from local payments to regional preferences, boosting conversions in over 200 markets.
Key features
- Localised shopper experience with customised messaging, local currencies, and checkout for international customers
- Regulations & tax compliance
- Global fulfilment
- Dashboard & analytics database
Pricing
It isn’t publicly disclosed on their website.
Expert Tip
Boost conversions by offering instant delivery estimates based on location and stock.
Multiple delivery options (local partners, click-and-collect) and clear timelines build trust and reduce cart abandonment. It's all about transparency and a smooth shopping experience!
2. A/B testing
A/B testing allows you to compare two or more versions of a webpage element (headline, button, layout, etc.) to see which performs better with your target audience.
It's a data-driven approach that helps you identify statistically significant improvements to your conversion rate.
2.1 Optimizely
Optimizely offers robust tools for running A/B tests and personalising user experiences.
Key features
- Multivariate testing
- Personalisation
- Real-time analytics
- Advanced targeting and segmentation
- Visual editor for non-technical users
Pricing
You have to request it by contacting them, they have different plans available based on your needs.
2.2 ABTasty
AB Tasty provides a comprehensive suite of optimisation tools, including AI-powered testing and personalisation.
Key features
- AI-powered optimisation
- Multivariate testing
- Personalisation
- Advanced audience targeting
- Heatmaps and session recording
Pricing
Pricing is not publicly available, and you have to contact their team to receive a quote.
Expert Tip
Don't limit yourself to A/B testing just headlines or buttons.
Consider testing entire page layouts, product descriptions, and checkout processes to discover hidden conversion opportunities.
3. Heatmap
Heatmaps are visual representations of user behaviour on your website. They use colour gradients to show where visitors click, scroll, and hover.
Heatmaps provide invaluable insights into user behaviour that traditional analytics can't capture.
Understanding your visitors' journey can help you optimise your website layout, content placement, and CTAs to increase conversions.
3.1 Hotjar
Hotjar helps you understand user behaviour on your site through various heatmap tools.
Key features
- Heatmaps (click, scroll, move…)
- Visitors recordings
- Survey & suggestion box
- Interview with users
- Dashboard & analytics
Pricing
A free forever plan is available until 35 daily sessions. Plans start at $39/month for 100 daily sessions and offer basic heatmaps, recordings, and form analytics.
It goes up to $213/month for 270k daily sessions and the full product suite. You can also pay extra for user interviews, surveys, and feedback.
3.2 UXCam
UXCam is a comprehensive mobile app analytics platform. It provides in-depth insights, heatmaps, and session recordings to help you optimise your app.
Key features
- Tagless auto capture for user interactions, technical info & screen data
- Powerful SDK & insights.
- Session replays, heatmaps, and user journeys
- Smart events & issue analytics.
- User data protection with built-in features
Pricing
It is free for up to 3000 monthly sessions, and a custom plan is available upon request.
Expert Tip
Don't just look at the "hot" areas. Cold spots can also be valuable clues. Are there sections of your page that users completely ignore?
This could indicate a lack of clarity, irrelevant content, or a need for a better visual hierarchy.
4. Email & SMS marketing
Email marketing and SMS marketing allows you to connect with your audience on a personal level, nurture leads, and drive sales through targeted email campaigns.
You can send newsletters, promotional offers, abandoned cart reminders, and personalised recommendations based on customer behaviour.
4.1 Mailchimp
Mailchimp is a popular email marketing platform with a freemium model, making it accessible to small businesses.
Key features
- Audience management & segmentation
- Email marketing
- Drag-and-drop email builder or code your own emails
- Dynamic content personalisation
- Landing pages, pop-up forms, and subscription forms
- Marketing automation
- Automation triggers based on user behaviour
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
- Tracking & analytics
Pricing
The free version has up to 500 contacts and 1000 monthly emails. After that, there is tiered pricing based on the number of contacts, monthly volume, and personalisation/add-on.
Mailchimp has three packs: Essentials, Standard, and Premium.
4.2 Klaviyo
Klaviyo is tailored for e-commerce businesses, offering advanced segmentation and personalisation features.
Key features
- Automated flows with trigger personalised email, SMS, and push notifications based on customer behaviour (e.g., welcome messages, abandoned cart reminders, win-back campaigns).
- Targeted campaigns
- Pre-built templates
- Mobile-friendly web form
- 350+ Integrations & APIs
- Customer profiles & advanced segmentation
- AI-powered insights & multichannel reporting
Pricing
It is free up to 250 contacts, 500 e-mail monthly sends and 150 monthly SMS/MMS credits.
After 251 active contacts, it is a tiered pricing model starting from $20/month up to $2,300/month. Additionally, MMS/SMS credits need to be purchased separately.
Expert Tip
Focus on building a permission-based email list and deliver valuable content that resonates with your audience. Don't bombard them with promotional emails.
Use segmentation and personalisation to send targeted messages that are more likely to convert.
5. Product & sizing recommendations
Product recommendation engines use algorithms to analyse customer behaviour and purchase history to recommend relevant products to individual users.
This personalised approach can significantly increase conversion rates by showcasing products more likely to interest each visitor.
5.1 Twilio Segment
Twilio Segment is a leading Customer Data Platform (CDP) that unifies customer data from various sources into a single platform.
Key features
- Data collection from different sources and tools integration
- Customer profiles and identity across touchpoints
- Audience segmentation
- Automated messaging and campaigns
- Reverse extract, transform, and load (ETL)
Pricing
A free version is available for up to 1000 visitors/month, 2 sources and 450+ integrations.
The paid version starts at $120/month for 10000 visitors/month, unlimited sources and public API access for tools integrations.
Custom packages can be requested to adapt to your specific needs.
5.2 Nosto
Nosto is the intelligent Commerce Experience Platform (CXP) that gives brands and retailers intuitively designed tools to increase online revenue through end-to-end commerce experience management.
Key features
- Product recommendations
- Merchandising and personalisation across touchpoints like product pages, cart, checkout…
- A/B testing and optimisation
- Audience segmentation & insights based on behaviour, attributes, lifecycle stage…
- Campaign management
Pricing
It is not publicly available on their website.
Expert Tip
Don't just rely on basic recommendations based on purchase history.
Consider user demographics, browsing behaviour, and real-time website activity to deliver highly relevant and contextual suggestions.
6. Social proof
93% of shoppers consult reviews, and products with five reviews are 270% more likely to be purchased.
Social proof utilises the power of customer experiences to build trust and influence purchasing decisions.
By showcasing positive reviews, testimonials, user-generated content (UGC), and social media mentions, you demonstrate the value of your products and encourage potential customers to take action.
6.1 Trustpilot
Trustpilot helps build trust by collecting and managing customer reviews.
Key features
- Collect reviews & invite customers
- Bulk upload past reviews
- Dedicated business profile page
- Google seller ratings with verified Trustpilot reviews
- TrustBox widgets to display Trustpilot reviews on your website, email signatures, newsletters…
- Automated fraud detection & transparency measures for review collection
- Reviews insights
Pricing
Trustpilot offers tiered pricing plans.
Three plans are available, starting with the Plus plan at £259/month for 200 monthly invitations to review, and up to £939/month for 5000 monthly invitations.
Advanced features and unlimited capabilities come with the Enterprise plan (contact for pricing).
6.2 Fomo
Fomo displays real-time notifications of customer activity to build social proof.
Key features
- Social proof marketing notifications on your website
- Extensive customisation options for messages, filters, and appearance
- Analytics & insights for optimisation
- Multilingual (29 languages)
- Integration friendly with 108+ marketing tools and platforms
- Code-free interface
Pricing
Fomo also offers tiered pricing plans to fit your needs. All plans come with a free 14-day trial.
The Starter plan starts at $25 per month and allows for 8,000 notifications and use on one website. Business jumps to $75 and unlocks unlimited websites and inline notifications.
Pro and Advanced plans offer progressively higher notification limits for $149 and $250 respectively.
For the most features and unlimited notifications, the Unlimited plan is offered at $499 per month.
Expert Tip
Don't shy away from negative reviews. Respond professionally and address customer concerns publicly to demonstrate transparency and excellent customer service.
This can actually build trust and showcase your commitment to customer satisfaction.
7. Payment & financing
Imagine losing customers at the very last hurdle – checkout. A difficult payment process can be a conversion killer.
By offering a smooth and secure checkout experience with a variety of payment options, you'll keep customers engaged and completing their purchases.
Payment/financing tools also enable you to offer instalment plans and cater to international customers with local payment methods.
7.1 Payplug
Payplug facilitates secure online payments with easy integration.
Key features
- Customisable payment pages
- Payment methods integration
- "Smart 3D Secure" feature
- Advanced fraud management
- Data-driven insights
- Pay by Link to accept payments via email, SMS, or invoices without an online store
Pricing
Payplug offers tiered pricing based on your estimated annual turnover.
The Starter (up to €100,000) includes basic features like online and in-store payments, for €10/month + transaction fees (1.5% + €0.25 for Eurozone cards, higher for others).
Pro (€100,000 - €1,000,000) adds features like one-click payment, deferred payment, and multi-user access, for €30/month (3 months free) + lower transaction fees (1.1% + €0.25 for Eurozone cards).
Enterprise (over €1,000,000) offers advanced features like custom integrations, a dedicated account manager, and volume-based pricing (contact for details).
7.2 HiPay
HiPay is a comprehensive payment solution that helps businesses of all sizes accept payments online, in-store, and on marketplaces.
Key features
- Unified commerce platform
- Omnichannel payment support (online, in-store, mobile)
- Streamlined checkout process
- Extensive partner network (e.g., CMS, cash register software…)
- Deferred payments and PAX terminals
Pricing
You have to contact the sales team to receive a personalised quote.
Expert Tip
Leverage payment psychology!
Pre-fill secure billing information (with customer consent) and strategically display trust signals (e.g., security badges, and customer reviews) during checkout.
This reduces form-filling time, minimises errors, and builds trust!
8. Support
89% of consumers are more likely to repurchase after a great customer service interaction.
Top-notch customer support is the ultimate trust builder.
The right tools can empower you to offer seamless support across various channels, preventing cart abandonment and keeping customers coming back for more.
8.1 Gorgias
Gorgias is an AI-powered customer experience platform designed specifically for e-commerce businesses to automate support and unify conversations.
Key features
- Support management with a unified inbox (email, chat, social media)
- Customer information with complete customer history (past conversations, orders, reviews)
- Channel integrations
- Workflows to automate repetitive tasks & custom variables
- AI autoresponders
- Live chat
- Help centre
- Targeted on-site campaign management
- Data & analytics
Pricing
Gorgias offers tiered pricing plans depending on the number of support tickets you expect to receive each month.
The Starter plan (50 tickets) is at $10 per month, Basic (300 tickets) for $60 or Pro (2,000 tickets) for $360 per month.
Higher tiers also come with more features and integrations. You can also add functionalities like automated responses or on-site marketing tools for an extra cost.
8.2 Onepilot
Onepilot is an outsourcing company that uses AI and human agents to provide customer service, sales support, and KYC (Know Your Customer) verification.
Key features
- Agent sourcing, training, and quality assurance
- KYC/B outsourcing
- Knowledge base creation for efficient issue resolution
- Ticket routing and scheduling for optimal agent workload
- AI-powered features for faster response times
- Secure data handling with GDPR and ISO certifications
- +35 languages
- Real-time data dashboard
Pricing
Onepilot's pricing has two parts: a monthly subscription fee of €299 and a pay-per-interaction fee based on your monthly ticket volume.
The exact cost per ticket also depends on the agent's location (local, nearshore, or offshore) and the language.
Expert Tip
Provide multiple support channels (live chat, email, phone) and offer 24/7 support for critical issues if needed, to ensure customer satisfaction.
9. Loyalty/reward & referral program
83% of shoppers say loyalty programs make them more likely to buy again.
Loyalty and referral programs close the loop on customer acquisition, transforming one-time buyers into loyal fans who drive repeat business and new customer growth.
9.1 Yotpo
Yotpo offers tools to create and manage customer loyalty and referral programs.
Key features
- SMS marketing for targeted promotions
- Reviews & photos
- Loyalty programs with diverse reward options including points, discounts, and exclusive offers
- Subscription options for recurring revenue.
- Personalised emails for customer engagement
Pricing
It starts at $368/month for the full pro product suite (Reviews, loyalty, SMS & e-mail) and for the premium version, it starts at $941/month.
You can also choose to only use one or multiple products and create your personalised bundle.
One SMS credit starts at $0.0072 and for e-mail, you pay per 1,000 e-mails sent each month, with decreasing costs as the volume increases. Sending up to 10,000 emails is free.
The rest of the product’s pricing is based on your monthly order volume.
9.2 Loyoly
Loyoly is a loyalty and referral platform that helps Shopify stores create engaging loyalty programs with features like referrals, reviews, rewards, and UGC.
Key features
- Customisable loyalty & referral programs with points, tiers, and various rewards (discounts, vouchers)
- Tracking & analytics
- Marketing tools integration
- UGC & reviews with content library
- Review moderation & showcase
- Product testing campaigns management
Pricing
Loyoly's pricing depends on the number of orders you process monthly. There are three tiers: Basic ($49/month), Advanced ($199/month), and Plus (custom quote).
The more you pay, the more features you get, such as custom rewards, VIP programs, and dedicated support.
Expert Tip
Go beyond points! Gamify your program with tiered systems, progress tracking, and bonus challenges.
It's all about friendly competition and unlocking rewards, keeping customers engaged and coming back for more!
10. Customer experience & product onboarding
Don't let confusing onboarding or frustrating purchases scare away customers!
Invest in customer experience tools for a smoother journey that turns website visitors into happy, returning fans.
With clear guides and interactive videos that allow for direct purchase, you'll eliminate friction and watch your conversion rates increase. It's a win-win for everyone!
10.1 Pimpster
Pimpster helps new users get acquainted with your product through effective onboarding tools.
Key features
- Web stories with interactive product tours, unboxing videos, and how-to guides
- Wholesale customer identification
- Advanced analytics
- Seamless CRM integration
Pricing
You have to get a demo to receive pricing.
10.2 Videowise
Videowise is a shoppable video platform that helps Shopify stores increase conversions with interactive product videos.
Key features
- On-site shoppable videos for your Shopify store
- Shoppable video marketing outside your Shopify store (e.g., email, SMS, QR codes)
- Video analytics
- Customisable e-commerce video player
- Video management & organisation from various sources (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube)
Pricing
Videowise offers tiered pricing for e-commerce businesses based on monthly visitors and video impressions.
Plans range from $99/month for up to 20k visitors and 30k impressions to $449/month for up to 150k visitors and 300k impressions.
There is also an Enterprise plan with fixed pricing for businesses with over 150k visitors. All plans include a 14-day free trial.
Expert Tip
Focus on micro-conversion! Imagine a customer watching a makeup tutorial, and key product highlights (lipstick shade, eyeshadow palette) are clickable, letting them instantly add them to the cart.
11. Second-hand selling
Second-hand isn't just about used stuff, it's about unique finds and sustainable shopping!
Attract eco-conscious consumers and treasure hunters by offering a curated selection of pre-loved items.
This approach caters to a growing market segment of environmentally conscious shoppers, expanding your customer base and driving higher conversion rates.
11.1 Nopli
Nopli helps online brands launch their own CtoC (consumer-to-consumer) second-hand marketplace quickly and easily.
Key features
- All-in-one solution from platform creation and management to logistics and operations
- White-labelled platform
Pricing
It is disclosed on their website, you have to book a demo.
11.2 Faume
Faume empowers fashion brands to seamlessly enter the second-hand market with a comprehensive solution.
Key features
- Second-hand platform & operations management like product collection, reconditioning, and shipping
- Omnichannel reach for all your existing distribution channels
- Technology & data for price management and performance tracking
Pricing
It is disclosed on their website, you have to book a demo.
Expert Tip
Don't just list items, showcase their story!
Use high-quality photos and detailed descriptions that emphasise the unique value proposition of each pre-loved item.
It encourages visitors to explore and feel like they discovered hidden gems, ultimately leading to more conversions.
This guide has unpacked 22 powerful CRO tools for 2024.
Now it's time to put them into action and streamline your conversion funnel.
Here's a roadmap to maximise their impact:
- Targeted optimisation: Analyse your website traffic and pinpoint areas with the highest conversion potential. Focus your initial efforts on these key conversion points.
- Data-driven decisions: Embrace A/B testing to experiment with different approaches. Track user behaviour and identify what resonates best with your audience.
- Continuous improvement: Monitor the performance of your CRO efforts closely. Analyse data, identify opportunities for improvement and refine your strategy for optimal results.
Which CRO tool are you most eager to explore?
Marketing
10 Retail Experience Ideas to Steal Right Now
UK Omnichannel Report 2023 by RetailEconomics shows a shift towards physical retail: 61% prefer in-store shopping, compared to 39% online.
It shows that retail isn't dead—it's evolving. Today’s customers crave unique in-store experiences; the most successful brands deliver just that.
Imagine stores that engage all your senses, cafés that inspire activism, and tech-savvy stores that seamlessly blend online and offline shopping.
In this article, discover 10 innovative retail experiences that can transform your store and captivate your customers.
1. Aesop - Multisensory store
Founded in 1987, first store opened in 2004 in Melbourne, 395 stores in 29 markets in 2023
Aesop, a premium skincare brand, has anything but boring stores. Think cool, minimalist spaces with natural ingredients and sleek packaging.
Each store is one-of-a-kind, designed with local touches to reflect the city's style.
Sustainability and craftsmanship are cornerstones, with recycled materials and collaborations with talented local architects.
Aesop stores engage multiple senses beyond just visual appeal.
They use scents (created by their in-house team), lighting, and sound to create an immersive and sensorial experience for customers.
The stores also feature sinks, seating areas, and treatment rooms, encouraging customers to linger, test products, and receive personalised consultations.
It invites customers to pause and experience the brand fully!
Despite their diversity, all Aesop stores embody the brand's essence of quality, honesty, and sensibility. The unique designs aim to maintain the brand's authenticity and avoid becoming a "soulless chain."
What we 💙 about it:
Aesop stores redefine retail as a multi-sensory adventure. It's experiential retail at its finest, transforming shopping into a luxurious journey.
2. Zapato feroz - Ferozland
Founded in 2015 by Lau García and Héctor Nebot, first shop (Ferozland) opened in 2024 in Valencia
Zapato Feroz champions natural foot development with comfy, barefoot-style shoes for the whole family, using materials like leather and microfiber for long-lasting wear.
Ferozland flips the script on traditional retail, creating a playground where kids can be kids and parents can enjoy shoe shopping.
Appointments elevate the experience with personalised service, while limited stock creates a nudge to buy.
But they don't stop at shoes - workshops and activities build a community around child wellness, solidifying brand loyalty that keeps customers engaged.
It's a masterclass in experience-driven retail that prioritises connection over transaction!
What we 💙 about it:
Ferozland ingeniously combines a playful retail experience with community building, turning shoe shopping into a stress-free adventure that fosters brand loyalty.
3. Gentle Monster - Jentle Home
Founded in 2011 by Hankook Kim, +40 stores in the world but mostly in the APAC region
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Gentle Monster has quickly become a leader in luxury eyewear.
Their Jentle Home collaboration with BLACKPINK's Jennie is a standout example. This pop-up store, shaped like a giant dollhouse, showcases Jennie's sunglasses designs.
Each room features figurines wearing her glasses; the exterior was a big hit on social media!
On top of that, Gentle Monster’s flagship stores are more than just places to shop.
Their store in Seoul features moving faces and large art pieces, offering an engaging sensory experience.
What we 💙 about it:
Gentle Monster blends retail with immersive art, turning their stores into must-visit destinations that create memorable shopping experiences.
4. Patagonia - Action Works café in London
Founded in 1973 by Yvon Chouinard, first store opened in 1973 in California, 70 stores worldwide
The Patagonia Action Works café in London is a unique retail space that aligns with the brand's commitment to environmental activism.
It fosters community engagement by connecting activists and NGOs and providing a hub for organising and mobilising local climate action.
The café offers immersive learning through workshops, expert-led sessions, and interactive elements, enabling visitors to gain practical skills and inspiration.
Patagonia's donation of all profits of the cafe to local environmental NGOs supports the causes it advocates for, reinforcing its authenticity and transparency in its dedication to environmental activism.
Action Works Café merges Patagonia’s brand purpose, community, learning, and giving, creating a powerful retail experience that fosters positive change.
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What we 💙 about it:
The unique café concept, with its visually striking design and interactive elements, generates buzz and encourages social sharing. It offers a memorable experience that deepens customer-brand connections and advocacy!
5. Farfetch - Store of the future at Browns Brook Street
Founded in 2008 by José Neves, acquired Browns in 2015
Farfetch's "Store of the Future" concept, showcased in the Browns flagship store, seamlessly integrates online and offline experiences.
By using Farfetch’s PLATFORM SOLUTIONS, they sync online customer data with in-store visits for a data-driven, personalised shopping journey.
When walking through the store, you will find interactive mirrors that can offer recommendations, size requests, and payments, while AR and VR provide immersive virtual try-ons.
They also streamline services with mobile payments and personalised support via channels like WhatsApp to boost efficiency.
What we 💙 about it:
These strategies create a high-tech, personalised, and immersive brand experience, revolutionising in-store shopping and fostering customer loyalty.
6. TOAST - In-store workshop
Founded in 1997 by Jessica and Jamie Seaton, 20 stores throughout the UK
TOAST, the UK lifestyle brand, is famous for its in-store workshops that align with its core values, like its commitment to traditional textiles and slow living.
“Each of our shops across the UK is a welcoming space in which to slow down, discover our seasonal collections, learn more about our makers and techniques, and come together for creative events," according to TOAST's website
They collaborate with local artisans for unique hands-on experiences, fostering a sense of community and connecting like-minded individuals.
TOAST also promotes sustainability through workshops on mending and upcycling, encouraging customers to extend the lifespan of their items.
Events like TOAST Exchange, where customers swap cherished items, and live styling sessions further enhance community engagement!
They leverage their physical retail spaces to host these engaging workshops, driving foot traffic and creating unique brand experiences.
What we 💙 about it:
TOAST turns retail spaces into engaging community hubs, blending immersive learning with sustainability and fostering strong customer loyalty.
7. Jacquemus - Restaurants and pop-up stores
Founded in 2009 by Simon Porte Jacquemus, first store opened in 2022, 4 stores and 5 corners in the world
Jacquemus redefines retail with immersive, sensorial experiences like the "24/24", the "Bambimou", and the "Le Bleu" pop-up, which takes customers into unique, engaging places.
His spaces are visually striking and Instagram-worthy, encouraging social sharing and creating buzz.
Jacquemus blends storytelling with his brand narrative, drawing from personal experiences to infuse collections with authenticity.
Limited-time, exclusive pop-ups generate excitement and a sense of urgency. And by collaborating with local designers and artists, he adds a local touch to his retail experiences!
Following the success of Citron and Oursin, his upcoming restaurant-boutique in Saint-Tropez merges retail with gastronomy, similar to Ralph Lauren’s Ralph's Coffee and Louis Vuitton’s café.
What we 💙 about it:
Jacquemus turns retail into a sensory adventure, blending storytelling, and creativity to create unforgettable experiences that foster deep customer engagement and loyalty.
8. Topology - Corner store
Founded in 2018 by Ning Li, first corner opened in 2024
Typology makes its mark in physical retail with a new corner store at Printemps Haussmann in Paris.
Known for its online-only sales since 2019, the French skincare brand has ventured into physical retail after a successful pop-up, "La Serre Typology".
Their first physical store reflects Typology's minimalist and eco-friendly values, featuring aluminium reminiscent of their packaging.
Founder Ning Li describes this move as perfectly aligned with their principle of enhancing brand desirability, blending thoughtful design with responsible retail.
What we 💙 about it:
Typology's new retail space combines minimalist design with eco-friendly materials, creating a sophisticated and responsible shopping experience that aligns with its brand values.
9. Balzac - Sustainability focus
Founded in 2011 by Chrysoline, Victorien, and Charles De Gastines, first store (L’adresse) opened in 2014, 3 corners in France
Balzac Paris brings its sustainable fashion to life with its first permanent brick-and-mortar store, L’Adresse, in Paris.
It uses raw, local materials like wood and ceramics and features their signature leopard print motif.
L’Adresse offers a rich retail experience: customers can enjoy the scent of their first fragrance, Honorine, and listen to curated music that enhances the atmosphere.
In the fitting rooms, recordings of co-founder Chrysoline de Gastines' voice provide a personal touch, making the space feel cosy and inviting.
The store includes a second-hand section called Le Kiosque, where customers can exchange items, a repair service, and spaces for events like yoga classes.
This store offers a physical shopping experience and strengthens Balzac Paris’s commitment to sustainability.
What we 💙 about it:
Balzac Paris combines sustainability and style in its first boutique, offering a sensory, community-focused shopping experience that matches its eco-friendly values.
10. Gymshark - Community-centric design
Founded in 2012 by Ben Francis and Lewis Morgan, first store opened in 2022, 2 new stores for 2024 in London and New York
Gymshark's flagship store on Regent Street in London redefines retail with its innovative and community-focused design.
The store serves as a hub for Gymshark's community, featuring elements like the "Community Table" and "The Hub" to foster interaction and connection among fans.
The store offers an immersive experience with "The Sweat Room" fitness studio for free classes and "The Pro Bench" for personalised fitness advice from experts.
The store is also made to take pictures with mirrors and Instagrammable places everywhere!
Seamlessly integrating digital and physical retail, customers can browse online, reserve in-store, and pick up or return online purchases, ensuring a cohesive brand experience.
Gymshark's flagship is a powerful showcase of its brand, emphasising fitness (even their mannequins are squatting!), inclusivity, and community empowerment.
What we 💙 about it:
Gymshark's flagship store blends community, fitness, and immersive experiences, creating a lifestyle hub that deepens customer connections and elevates the retail experience.
Retail is no longer just about transactions. It's blossoming into a vibrant landscape of experiences that aim to increase customer engagement and foster brand loyalty.
This article explored 10 innovative stores, such as Aesop's sensory haven and Gymshark's community hub, showcasing the power of creative retail.
But this is just the beginning! As technology and customer expectations evolve, the possibilities for creating engaging experiences are endless.
What groundbreaking ideas will you bring to the table?
Logistics
8 Reasons Why You Need to Outsource Your Logistics
Surging demand is a fantastic problem to have, but it can quickly expose the limitations of in-house fulfilment.
Instead of letting logistics slow your growth, consider a strategic move: logistics outsourcing order fulfilment.
By partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider, you can scale effortlessly, optimise costs, offer international delivery, and propel your brand to the next level.
Let's explore the key reasons why outsourcing order fulfilment might be the secret weapon your business needs.
1. If you want to scale your brand
Imagine your marketing campaign crushes it, and orders flood in. But with in-house fulfilment, you're stuck scrambling for staff, space, and time.
Outsourcing logistics eliminates that headache. A 3PL partner (fulfilment company) has the flexibility you need to scale operations to meet your demand.
You focus on selling more while they handle the logistics operations.
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2. If you want to reduce your upfront costs
57% of companies that have outsourced their logistics to a 3PL have experienced cost savings as a result, according to a DHL report.
Warehouse rent, packing supplies, logistics equipment—these costs eat into your profits. Outsourcing eliminates those upfront costs.
This frees up capital for important things – like marketing that actually works, a new product development, opening sales channels or expanding to a new market.
3. If you need faster delivery to boost your sales
The average customer now expects same day or 48h delivery as a standard.
Slow shipping can lead to frustration and bad reviews.
Fulfilment companies are experts in logistics. They have refined their picking and packing processes to minimise delays and allow your products to be shipped quickly!
Additionally, many 3PLs have strategically located and specialised warehouses so you can ensure even faster shipping worldwide!
Bigblue Tips
Say goodbye to 2-week waits! Bigblue delivers significantly faster, getting your products into your customers' hands quicker for a more satisfying unboxing experience.
With a 92% buyer satisfaction rating for delivery and our extensive fulfilment centres network in Europe, your products can seamlessly reach customers worldwide.
👉 Discover our delivery experience
4. If you want to have discount shipping rates
Fulfilment company providers leverage bulk volume to negotiate lower shipping rates with major carriers.
These savings get passed on to you. Competitive shipping options make your products more attractive, which means more sales and a bigger market share.
Bigblue Tips
At Bigblue, we leverage our close partnerships with over 20 European carriers to get you the most competitive rates for your needs!
As one of our carriers' major clients, we leverage our strong relationship to expedite customer requests and escalate issues faster.
👉 Discover our carriers’ network
5. If you want to improve your stock management
Many 3PLs offer real-time inventory visibility across their warehouses, thanks to the advanced Warehouse Management System (WMS).
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This allows you to optimise inventory levels by identifying best-selling products, reduce the risk of stockouts, and free up capital tied up in excess stock.
You gain greater control over your inventory without the need for manual tracking.
Bigblue Tips
Bigblue’s cloud-based Atlas WMS is a game-changer for e-commerce and omnichannel brands.
You have real-time inventory visibility, and we optimise your storage space and manage product locations. You only have to connect to our app and look at your personalised dashboard!
👉 Discover our WMS
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6. If you want to expand internationally
Expanding globally is exciting but challenging.
Partnering with a 3PL provider simplifies the process. They handle customs, manage VAT and duties, and ensure compliance, reducing delays.
Local expertise helps navigate market preferences and logistics challenges.
Leveraging their scale, 3PLs offer cost efficiencies, lowering international shipping costs and making your products more competitive globally!
"Bigblue enabled us to expand into new markets and ensure efficient delivery throughout Europe" says Christelle and Lucas, SmartWorkout founders
7. If you are tired of dealing with daily delivery issues
96% of customers track their packages online after purchase, with 43% checking the status daily.
From order tracking to managing delayed packages, delivery issues can constantly drain your resources.
Outsourcing logistics takes that burden off your shoulders.
A 3PL partner handles order fulfilment troubleshooting and can help you answer customer inquiries. This gives you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on strategic initiatives.
Bigblue Tips
Bigblue offers various delivery options with real-time tracking and estimated arrival dates at checkout.
Pair this with branded post-purchase emails with a 74% open rate that can divide your Where Is My Order? (WISMO) requests by 2!
👉 Discover our tracking experience
8. If you don’t want to manage your own fulfilment team
Building and managing a skilled in-house fulfilment team requires significant time and resources.
Recruitment, training, scheduling – it all adds up. Outsourcing eliminates this responsibility.
A 3PL has a team of experienced professionals dedicated to efficient order fulfilment, picking, packing and shipping, inventory management, and returns processing.
You gain access to their expertise without the burden of managing in-house staff.
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Outsourcing fulfilment can be a strategic move to reduce costs, free up resources for growth, and create a phenomenal customer experience.
Remember, a successful fulfilment strategy should scale with your business and support your long-term goals.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by in-house logistics, consider outsourced order fulfilment. It might just be the secret weapon that unlocks your brand's true potential.
If you think outsourcing logistics could be a game-changer for your brand, you can meet with our team of experts to discuss your needs!
Marketing
Jonak: A Shining Example of Omnichannel Success
Jonak started by making shoes for nuns, and now they're a brand on a hit show like Emily in Paris!
Founded in 1964, this family-owned business has carved a unique niche, offering high-quality, stylish footwear at accessible prices.
Their dedication to quality, innovation, and understanding their evolving customer base has been key to their success.
Let’s explore Jonak's journey, from a single Parisian boutique to a global omnichannel brand with a thriving online presence!
1. Jonak’s history: A distinctive brand positioning
1.1 A family legacy spanning over three generations
Established in 1964 by husband-and-wife Marcel and Josette Nakam, Jonak began as a single boutique in Saint-Germain-des-Près.
Did you know? The name is a fusion of the first syllable of his wife Josette and son Joseph's name with the one for their family name Nakam!
It symbolises the family-oriented spirit that would define the brand for generations to come.
They started by selling orthopaedic shoes for nuns (as they were close to many convents!) and being a retailer of brands like Birkenstock and Scholl.
Marcel’s son, Joseph, played a pivotal role in Jonak’s transformation. Recognising the changing taste of his generation, he steered the brands towards trendy and stylish footwear.
Today, the company is managed by the third generation, with Marcel Nakam Jr. as co-CEO and Lisa Nakam as General Manager.
1.2 Embodying Parisian Chic with high-quality footwear
Jonak is renowned for its meticulous focus on quality, producing shoes in Europe—primarily in Spain, Italy, and Portugal.
By producing smaller batches (100-200 pieces per colour), Jonak adeptly tests market trends, allowing rapid adaptation to consumer preferences while maintaining fair pricing.
Despite not being a luxury brand, Jonak sits comfortably in a niche between high-street and high-end, with prices ranging from £95 for sandals to £315 for cowboy boots.
In 2022, Jonak’s successful strategy led to over €50 million in revenue, marking a 20% growth from the previous year.
2. Decoding Jonak's marketing magic: A recipe for success
2.1 Strong social media presence and customer engagement
Faced with a need to stay relevant, Jonak has undergone a remarkable comeback in recent years. A key driver is their strategic use of social media and influencer marketing.
As early adopters of platforms like Instagram and TikTok, they've built a strong online presence that resonates with their target audience (young and social media-savvy women).
Their strategy is to focus on authenticity and brand fit to create a loyal community.
They mostly share product photos, style inspiration, and behind-the-scenes content about product fabrication.
587k+ followers on Instagram (#jonak with 53k+ posts!), 231k followers on TikTok, and 1.1M+ monthly views on Pinterest
2.2 Strategic influencer campaigns to target new audience
They strategically collaborate with influencers across platforms to create engaging content integrating Jonak's footwear into cool lifestyles.
In 2017, they teamed up with influencer Lily Rose to create a unique photo exhibition in Paris.
Lily Rose travelled the world for six weeks with Jonak shoes, capturing them in stunning photos.
These photos were displayed in a pop-up art gallery with proceeds going to a women's empowerment charity.
More recently, they partnered with Lena Situations (one of the most famous French influencers) and organised a gifting contest. The videos racked up more than 800k views!
This approach has boosted brand awareness, attracted a younger audience, and significantly increased sales (25% of their sales came from Instagram in 2021!).
Jonak's marketing strategy is a prime example of how a brand can reinvent itself and connect with a new generation by understanding its audience and leveraging the power of social media.
3. Jonak’s omnichannel excellence: The key to their growth
3.1 Evolving from pure player retail to digital transformation
Jonak's success is built on continuous adaptation.
From expanding across Paris to entering international markets and major department stores like Galeries Lafayette, Jonak has mastered the art of omnichannel retailing.
Recognising the digital shift, they launched their e-commerce website in 2013, generating almost 50% of their current sales. They were one of the first French brands to do so!
In 2023, they even achieved €1M in sales on their website in only one day!
Jonak perfected testing new markets through department store corners.
In the Netherlands, for example, they started by building an online presence on Bijenkorf's website for a year.
Seeing success online, they opened physical corners within the stores. Now boasting three locations (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Maastricht), Jonak ranks among Bijenkorf's top 3 contemporary sellers.
Today, with over 90 points of sale worldwide, they truly set the standard for omnichannel retail growth.
3.2 Seamless integration of online and in-store experiences
For Jonak, social media conveys messages, builds loyalty, and creates desirability.
Their stores and website must then convert this engagement into sales through immersive experiences.
On the website, they have a dedicated blog "The Journal" and a "Lookbook" section where you can easily check the model and add it to your cart!
This curated content features fashion trends, styling tips, and collaborations with inspiring women, keeping their audience engaged and coming back for more!
Jonak elevates the retail experience by incorporating luxury codes and innovative concepts.
Their boutiques resemble Parisian flats, creating a welcoming and cosy atmosphere with high-quality materials and well-chosen furniture.
They have a team of in-store stylists equipped with tablets for personalised assistance and digital kiosks keep customers engaged with Jonak’s latest collection.
They also capitalise on direct and 1:1 communication with their clients through WhatsApp to create deeper connections with their clientele.
By adapting to evolving consumer preferences and embracing innovation, Jonak remains a leader in the shoe market.
Jonak's transformation from a small Paris shop to a major global player is a fantastic example of how brands can evolve and thrive.
This journey, shaped by a family's passion and smart moves, shows what's possible when you blend tradition with innovation.
As Jonak continues to win hearts with its stylish, timeless footwear, it begs the question: What's next for them? What opportunities might arise as they continue to explore the balance between physical presence and digital engagement?
Marketing
Lazy Oaf Success Story: From London Garage to Cult Favourite
Forget mass-produced boring streetwear. Lazy Oaf, a UK indie brand known for its vibrant colours and playful graphics, has been building a cult following since 2001.
They started small, hand-printing tees in a London garage, but their commitment to authenticity and community has propelled them to global fame.
In this article, we explore how they captured the hearts (and wardrobes) of fashion icons like Gigi Hadid!
1. More than just streetwear: What makes Lazy Oaf unique?
1.1 Lazy’s Oaf’s humble beginnings to streetwear leader
Lazy Oaf was founded in 2001 by Gemma Shiel in her father's garage in North London.
Shiel started by hand printing t-shirts, sold at a stall in Spitalfields Market, East London.
Despite the challenges of the pre-e-commerce era, the brand flourished by engaging directly with its audience through live events and store collaborations.
“It was built through who knew about you through events, stores you stocked in, parties, sub cultural goings ons and doing stuff that we can’t even comprehend anymore,” Shiel says for Forbes.
The brand grew organically without significant outside funding and achieved a $5.3 million annual revenue, according to Rocket Reach.
1.2 Lazy Oaf’s strong brand identity built on authenticity and sustainability
Lazy Oaf isn't your typical streetwear brand. They reject monotonous trends, championing individuality.
Their signature style? Playful illustrations, vibrant colours, and a healthy dose of humour – a perfect fit for a young generation seeking self-expression through fashion.
For instance, their popular "G.E.M." collection, inspired by the 90s cartoon aesthetics, sold out within hours of release.
Sustainability has been a core value for Lazy Oaf long before it became a buzzword.
They prioritise quality and environmental responsibility, ensuring their garments are built to last, not destined for landfills.
The design and development process takes roughly a year, resulting in roughly 400 unique styles annually – a stark contrast to fast-fashion giants churning out double that in a week.
To minimise waste, Lazy Oaf produces limited quantities (150-250 pieces) per style.
Once collections are ready, they often shoot campaigns in-house before launching them in-store, on their app, and online through weekly or bi-weekly drops to keep things fresh.
As a "Direct2Oaf" brand, you won't find their clothing elsewhere (more on this later!).
Since 2021, 50% of their clothing has gone up to size 24 or 3XL, with plans to expand size inclusivity across all styles in the coming years.
2. From Tumblr to 1M followers on Instagram: Lazy Oaf's social media rise
2.1 Cultivating a devoted community
Lazy Oaf quickly gained a cult following, becoming a favourite among early fashion influencers and celebrities like Lava La Rue and Gigi Hadid.
The brand built its strong foundation through a combination of in-real-life community events and a strategic online presence that flourished on platforms like Tumblr.
Fast forward to today, and they're still killing it on social media with over a million Instagram followers.
Their feed features a mix of real people from their community with UGC, brand value, their collaborations and their new collection!
Lazy Oaf keeps the conversation going with followers, hosting Q&A sessions with designers and sneak peeks of upcoming collections.
To connect with fans, Lazy Oaf launched their media called Oaf World, presenting behind-the-scenes content like staff stories!
The brand's social media platforms have become a hub for fans to share their own Lazy Oaf-inspired outfits, further cementing the community feeling.
2.2 Boosting engagement with limited edition and collaboration
This dedication to community shines through in their 20th Birthday Collection which celebrates the brand's 20 years of existence.
The collection is a trip down memory lane for long-time Oaf fans. It features beloved prints and designs from the archives, reimagined for a modern audience.
The campaign features a diverse cast of Gen Z and young Millennial creatives – artists, students, and fans from all over the globe.
These are the real faces of Lazy Oaf, a testament to the brand's commitment to inclusivity and its power to unite people through fashion. It's a celebration of the Oaf community.
Additionally, Lazy Oaf frequently collaborates with artists and other brands to keep their collections fresh and exciting.
They've fostered strong partnerships with Dr. Martens, Crocs, Lush, and Vans!
Their recent Disney collab, featuring iconic characters with a Lazy Oaf twist, attracted both Disney fans and streetwear enthusiasts, expanding their reach even further.
3. Lazy Oaf’s retail evolution: Redefining their omnichannel shopping experience
3.1 Retailer partnership and London flagship store
In 2003, Lazy Oaf debuted at Margin London, a prestigious trade show, that launched them onto the global stage. This success led to over 150 stockists worldwide, including iconic boutiques like Colette in Paris and renowned department stores like Selfridges.
In 2008, they opened their first flagship store in London, creating a seamless omnichannel experience.
The London flagship isn't just a store, it's an extension of the Lazy Oaf experience.
Hosting art installations and live music events that embody the brand's playful spirit, these stores go beyond sales, fostering customer loyalty by creating lasting memories.
3.2 Shifting to a “Direct2Oaf” for more brand control
Recognising the growing importance of direct customer interaction and in reaction to Covid 19, Lazy Oaf shifted from a wholesale model to a D2Oaf strategy.
This strategic decision allowed them to sell directly through their website and stores, scaling back from hundreds of global stockists. The D2Oaf approach offers greater control over brand identity and customer experience.
Customers can check stock availability in-store via the app, pick up and return in stores. It ensures a frustration-free shopping journey across online and offline platforms.
With so many fashion brands out there, Lazy Oaf proves that being true to yourself and building a strong community really matters.
They never gave up on their fun and unique style, and they found smart ways to reach customers online and in stores.
Lazy Oaf's journey from a one-woman operation to a globally recognised brand is a masterclass in brand identity, community building, and, of course, keeping it weird.
Logistics
Warehouse vs. Fulfilment Centre: Key Differences & Benefits
You know the struggle. Customers hit "purchase" on your latest product launch, but fulfilling those orders efficiently and on time can feel like a logistical nightmare.
Warehouse space is tight, picking and packing take forever, and managing multiple sales channels adds another layer of complexity.
Enter the fulfilment centre: your potential secret weapon in the e-commerce and omnichannel retail game.
In this article, we'll explain everything you need to understand about fulfilment centres.
Also, we'll explore the key differences from traditional warehouses, highlighting how they can streamline your omnichannel operations and boost customer satisfaction.
1. What is a fulfilment centre?
Fulfilment centres are key hubs in the supply chain, managing everything from processing to dispatching orders.
E-commerce and omnichannel retailers often rely on third-party logistics (3PL) providers like Bigblue to handle these operations.
Essentially, fulfilment centres streamline the delivery process, ensuring that online orders meet customer expectations and relieving retailers of complex logistics.
2. Fulfilment centre vs warehouse: Key distinctions
While sometimes used interchangeably, the primary functions of warehouses and fulfilment centres differ significantly.
Warehouses excel at long-term storage, particularly for bulk goods. They're a cost-effective option if you have a large inventory and don't require rapid order fulfilment.
In contrast, fulfilment centres prioritise order fulfilment efficiency and speed. This makes them ideal for managing high order volume or offering fast delivery to your customers.
They also specialise in inventory management and maintaining optimal stock levels to avoid stockouts. Real-time inventory tracking and data analysis are also crucial aspects of a fulfilment centre.
They offer a wider range of value-added services, including:
- Order picking and packing
- Labelling
- Shipping
- Returns processing
3. 5 benefits of using a fulfilment centre
By outsourcing fulfilment to a dedicated centre, you unlock a multitude of benefits that empower your e-commerce brand to thrive:
3.1 Lower costs
Fulfilment centres deal with so many shipments that they can often get lower shipping rates from carriers. They can also help you optimise your storage space.
Bigblue Tips
Bigblue offers competitive shipping rates through a network of 20+ European carriers (Colissimo, Royal Mail, etc.).
Our smart carrier option automatically selects the most cost-effective and reliable delivery for each customer, saving you money and keeping them happy.
3.2 Faster deliveries and fewer mistakes
Fulfilment centres are set up to handle orders quickly and accurately, which keeps your customers happy.
For example, we ensure a 96% delivery satisfaction rate, versus the industry average of 77%.
3.3 More time for you to focus on what matters
By outsourcing fulfilment, you'll have more time to focus on things like developing new products and marketing your business.
“Since we started using Bigblue, our logistics have been magically transformed! Their application streamlines our operations and allows us to ensure an incredible experience while focusing on our products”, says Regina Rodriguez, Founder of Believe Athletics
3.4 Easier to grow your business
These centres can handle more orders as your business gets bigger, without you needing to invest in more space or staff. Plus, you can easily reach new markets with their existing locations.
Bigblue Tips
Reach new customers across Europe faster!
Bigblue's strategically placed network of 8 fulfilment centres in France, the UK, and Spain makes it easy to expand your reach without managing complex logistics.
3.5 Successful B2B order fulfilment and retailers' collaboration
Fulfilment centres can easily handle the larger order volumes typical of B2B transactions. No need to invest in extra warehouse space or staff – it can scale with you. You can also count on their expertise to adapt to your retailer's receiving requirements.
“Bigblue makes it possible to restock +85% of our wholesale orders in less than 48 hours”, says Honorine Thibault, Logistics and Procurement Manager at Dermalogica France
So, warehouse or fulfilment centre? The answer depends on your specific needs.
Warehouses excel at long-term storage, especially for bulk goods. They're a cost-effective option if you have a large inventory and don't require rapid order fulfilment.
Fulfilment centres shine in efficiency and speed. They're ideal for e-commerce and omnichannel brands with high order volume or a focus on fast delivery. They offer a wider range of services, including picking, packing, labelling, shipping, and even returns processing.
Ultimately, the best choice empowers your business to thrive. Consider your needs – if streamlined order fulfilment and happy customers are top priorities, a fulfilment centre might be the best option for you.
Bigblue's fulfilment centres streamline orders, boost delivery speeds & free you to focus on growth. Reach new customers in Europe with our strategically placed network.
Contact our expert to get a quote & unlock happier customers!
Logistics
What is the best carrier for your e-commerce in the UK?
The UK e-commerce landscape is a thriving ecosystem, with consumers spending over £260 billion online in 2023.
However, unlike some other markets dominated by a single national carrier, the UK delivery sector boasts a highly fragmented structure. UK national postal service Royal Mail holds a mere 25% market share!
This variety means lots of delivery choices, but also the challenge of finding the best one for customers.
This comprehensive guide covers key factors for UK e-commerce businesses to help you pick the best delivery partner easily!
1. 10 key factors when selecting a delivery partner in the UK
Choosing the right courier companies in the UK requires understanding your online retail needs and your customer base's preferences:
- Package details: Analyse shipment volume and size to match carrier capabilities.
- Type of delivery: Rising costs and environmental concerns are boosting out-of-home (OOH) delivery options, such as pick-up/drop-off points (PUDO) and lockers, despite the dominance of home delivery.
- Speed: A 2022 Metapack study found that 71% of customers value speed, with 39% willing to pay extra for same-day or next-day delivery.
- Cost: Customers value free shipping above other perks and discounts. So make sure to balance affordable rates with reliable service.
- Coverage: Ensure domestic coverage and consider international options for future expansion.
- Customer support: Responsive support is crucial for resolving issues and maintaining satisfaction.
- Platform integration: Seamless integration ensures efficient order processing and shipment management.
- Customer reviews: Read reviews to understand experiences with different courier companies.
- Scalability: Choose a partner that grows with your e-commerce business.
- Sustainability: Prioritise eco-friendly delivery methods.
2. Navigating the options: Popular UK couriers
Once your products are ready to ship, selecting the right carrier becomes critical. While keeping your margins healthy is important, focusing solely on the cheapest option can backfire.
The key is to find a delivery partner that offers competitive rates without sacrificing service quality. This way, you can provide affordable shipping to your customers while maintaining a positive experience. Happy customers and a healthy profit margin? That's a recipe for success!
In a 2022 Statista survey, UK online shoppers were asked which delivery company they prefer. Over half chose Royal Mail as their top choice. DPD came in second place, picked by a fifth of shoppers. Evri (formerly Hermes) followed closely behind in third, with nearly 19% of UK shoppers selecting them.
These preferences highlight the importance of a strong domestic network, affordability, and a reputation for reliability.
Let's delve deeper into the strengths of these popular UK couriers and explore additional options to suit your specific e-commerce needs:
2.1 Standard delivery:
- Domestic delivery: Royal Mail, Evri, and Yodel are all strong options for standard domestic deliveries, each offering a unique blend of affordability, speed, and reliability.
- International delivery: For extensive networks and cost-effective international shipping options, consider Parcelforce, DPD, or UPS.
2.2 Small packages:
- Domestic delivery: Royal Mail or Evri’s letter service offers a cost-effective solution for sending smaller, lightweight items within the UK.
- International delivery: DPD or Royal Mail International Tracked caters to small packages shipped internationally. UPS Standard is also a popular option thanks to its global reach, even though it is not the cheapest option.
2.3 Express delivery:
- Domestic delivery: DPD, FedEx, or UPS offers reliable and fast delivery within the UK, with flexible options for customers to choose their delivery location and time.
- International delivery: DHL or UPS are well-known for premium express delivery globally, ideal for time-sensitive international shipments
2.4 B2B delivery:
Regarding B2B delivery in the UK, DPD, UPS, and XPO Logistics are among the top options due to their focus on B2B services, reliability, speed, and ease of use. Carefully analyse their offerings and pricing to determine the best fit for your business needs.
2.5 Environmentally friendly options:
- Pick standard delivery whenever possible to reduce the number of individual trips, minimising your environmental footprint.
- Look for providers offering carbon-neutral delivery or Click & Collect options, like Royal Mail Click & Drop.
- Opt for carriers with carbon offset programs or those investing in electric vehicles (EV) fleets like DPD and Evri.
- Promote pick-up points by encouraging customers to use pick-up points to consolidate deliveries, reducing the last-mile environmental impact.
Bigblue Tips
Bigblue's Shopify Plus Pickup Point Selector app puts the power of choice directly in your customers' hands. They can select their preferred pick-up location before checkout, eliminating last-minute surprises and ensuring a seamless delivery experience.
3. Unlock faster deliveries, happier customers: The power of multi-carrier shipping
Imagine a delivery partner for every situation! A multi-courier strategy unlocks a wider range of options, and will help you boost your conversion rate:
- A backup plan: If your main delivery company has issues, others can still get your products to your customers.
- Optimal shipping costs: You can choose the cheapest option for each package based on size and weight.
- Faster delivery: You can pick the fastest courier for specific locations.
- Happy international customers: More options for receiving and returning products internationally.
- More choices at checkout: Offer customers various shipping speeds and prices.
- Reduced cart abandonment: Customers complete more purchases when having flexible options.
However, dealing with multiple parcel delivery services can be tricky.
By partnering with a 3PL like Bigblue, you can outsource your entire shipping operations and manage easily multiple shipping services in one place:
- Connect to 20+ couriers at a discounted rate negotiated by Bigblue. Save on shipping with our smart-carrier offer that picks the fastest, cheapest option for your delivery needs.
- Keep customers informed with real-time delivery updates and ditch generic courier tracking links! Design branded email notifications and tracking pages to promote your brand directly.
- Leverage Bigblue's carrier network expertise for swift resolution of inquiries, improving customer satisfaction.
Don't underestimate the power of a good delivery partner! In today's competitive online market, a smooth and eco-friendly delivery experience can make all the difference.
By taking the time to understand your needs and compare different couriers, you can ensure happy customers, fewer headaches, and ultimately, a thriving e-commerce business.
Remember, the perfect partner can offer you flexibility, keep costs in check, and even help you reduce your environmental impact.
By partnering with a 3PL like Bigblue, managing multiple couriers becomes easier, ensuring you always have the best option on hand.
Marketing
10 Must-Follow Celebrity Brands in 2024
In 2023, Rihanna's Fenty Beauty claimed the crown as the highest-grossing celebrity beauty brand, generating £477 million in revenue. Following closely behind were Priyanka Chopra's Anomaly Hair Care and Kylie Jenner's Kylie Cosmetics.
Celebrities have always been trendsetters, but now their influence goes way beyond the red carpet. We're talking billion-dollar beauty and fashion empires taking the industry by storm.
Today, we're diving into the top celebrity brands to follow and how A-listers are shaking things up with innovative products and killer marketing strategies.
1. Rihanna - Fenty Beauty
Fenty Beauty launched in 2017 with a bang, 40 foundation shades (now expanded to 50!).
Rihanna drew inspiration from her own experiences and the lack of options that matched a wide range of skin tones.
Fenty Beauty's sales skyrocketed, earning them a spot on Time Magazine's "Best Inventions of 2017" list.
Fenty Beauty's commitment extends to their marketing campaigns that consistently feature models of various ethnicities, genders, skin tones, and body types.
In 2023, the brand generated a revenue of $602.4 million.
Key takeaway
Fenty Beauty champions diversity, evident in its product range and inclusive social media presence.
2. Priyanka Chopra Jonas - Anomaly Hair Care
Launched in 2011, Anomaly Hair Care offers gender-neutral, sustainable hair products free from harsh chemicals.
The brand made quite the buzz during its soft launch in the US and became a global phenomenon in no time.
Despite competition from celebrity brands, PeeCee’s line became the second-wealthiest beauty brand by 2023, surpassing Kylie Jenner and Selena Gomez.
Anomaly boasts an affordable range of shampoos, conditioners, deep conditioners, dry shampoos, and masks.
They stand out for their eco-friendly packaging, made entirely from recycled ocean and landfill waste.
“Anomaly is like six bucks for each product because we spent so little on our packaging. It’s all recycled trash, so you can take the bottle and recycle it again. Everyone should have access to great hair, and it shouldn’t cost us the earth,” PeeCee told ELLE.
In 2022, the brand recorded an impressive revenue of £429 million last year.
Key takeaway
Anomaly focuses on simplicity, affordability, sustainability, quality, and transparency. They successfully carved a unique space in the competitive beauty market by aligning with evolving consumer preferences.
3. Kylie Jenner - Kylie Cosmetics
In 2015, at only 18 years old, Kylie Jenner launched Kylie Cosmetics.
Leveraging her massive social media reach, Kylie Jenner became a walking advertisement for her brand. Her first lip kits sold out in under a minute, crashing the website.
Her success wasn't just about her fame, it was about understanding her audience. Kylie's target market was young, tech-savvy, and glued to their social media feeds.
Kylie tapped into a new way of selling beauty products by creating a brand that spoke directly to consumers. She used platforms like Instagram and Snapchat to cultivate hype and exclusivity.
The brand's success led to rapid expansion with new makeup products at competitive prices.
By 2018, Jenner became one of the wealthiest self-made young women.
Her entrepreneurial drive continued with the launch of Kylie Skin (2019), Kylie Baby (2021), and her clothing line Khy (2023).
The brand reached $380.4 million in revenue in 2023.
Key takeaway
Kylie Cosmetics leverages social media with trendy content, influencer collaborations, and community building to fuel excitement for their brand.
4. Selena Gomez - Rare Beauty
Selena Gomez launched Rare Beauty to challenge unrealistic beauty standards in 2020.
It has garnered the largest Instagram audience among all celebrity beauty brands with 430M followers.
Rare Beauty's social media strategy focuses on TikTok. They use a mix of content including product demos, funny skits, mental health awareness videos with Selena Gomez, and tutorials.
One of their products, the Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, went viral on TikTok, praised for its seamless blendability and natural flush.
Beauty influencers and everyday users raved about the buildable formula and flattering shades, generating millions of views and propelling the product to cult-favourite status.
With #rarebeautyblush exceeding 56.5k posts and #rarebeauty over 422k, Rare Beauty solidified its place in the market, selling over $70 million of the blush in 2022.
Key takeaway
Selena Gomez's transparency turns Rare Beauty into an extension of herself, winning fans with high-quality products.
5. Hailey Bieber - Rhode Beauty
Despite only launching in 2022, Rhode Beauty quickly became one of the most popular beauty brands. It embodies the clean girl aesthetic and has set a new beauty standard.
Rhode sold out within minutes of launch.
On top of that, recently, Hailey Bieber teased Rhode’s new phone case.
It is a low-key genius move, a silicon case where you can fit a Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment or a Peptide Lip Tint (two of their best-selling products) perfectly.
The long-awaited phone case is available on a waitlist and retails at £35.
Hailey Bieber's frequent Instagram promotion turned Rhode's lip treatment into a viral sensation, positioning it as a must-have beauty staple.
Key takeaway
Rhode’s social media focus transcended products, emphasising brand values for authenticity. This fusion of celebrity and fashion-savvy marketing resonated with their target audience.
6. Bobbi Brown - Jones Road Beauty
Jones Road Beauty, makeup legend Bobbi Brown's comeback brand launched in 2020, is thriving on TikTok.
Bobbi Brown is finding a new generation of fans with her honest and down-to-earth beauty advice on TikTok.
Brown dispenses her signature natural makeup tips directly to viewers. A simple strategy of genuine advice that has gone viral.
Brown skips trends and focuses on directly educating viewers, resulting in a loyal following.
This social media success story has translated to major sales growth for Jones Road, achieving $100M in revenue in 2023.
Key takeaway
Jones Road's focus on clean makeup, educational content for mature women, and customer-centric strategies inspires beauty enthusiasts and the industry.
7. Kim Kardashian - SKIMS
SKIMS rose to prominence by offering shapewear in various sizes and colours, catering to all body types and skin tones. It was a major hit with consumers.
With her massive social media reach, Kim Kardashian strategically partnered with celebrities, influencers, the NBA, and Team USA to boost her brand's visibility.
Beyond shapewear, they expanded into loungewear, swimwear, and a men's line.
Their viral campaigns, like the "Ultimate Nipple Bra" and Valentine's edition with Lana Del Rey, highlight their commitment to pushing boundaries and staying relevant.
Skims is valued at over $4 billion in 2023.
Key takeaway
SKIMS has perfected the balance between product innovation, diverse sizing and savvy collaborations sold via viral campaigns.
8. Gwyneth Paltrow - Goop
Gwyneth Paltrow started Goop in 2008 as a newsletter covering lifestyle and beauty topics (150,000 subscribers in year two to over 8 million by 2018!).
After only four years, it’s become a lifestyle brand selling skincare products, supplements, and clothes.
Its growth is attributed to Gwyneth Paltrow's stories – sharing motherhood experiences, favourite restaurants, and tips – fostering a strong community around Goop.
The brand's exclusivity, luxurious and niche wellness products, and limited edition products match really well with their target audience (women, 30s, high-income).
The New York Times reported Goop was worth $250 million in 2023.
Key takeaway
Goop's inspiring rise from newsletter to a high-end brand showcases the power of storytelling and community building.
9. Jessica Alba - The Honest Company
The Honest Company, a name synonymous with clean and conscious living, has grown steadily since its launch in 2012.
Founded by actress and entrepreneur Jessica Alba, the company offers a wide range of personal care, beauty, baby, and household products formulated with safe, clean ingredients.
The Honest Company’s success lies in its social media and influencer marketing that features real mothers and promotes authenticity.
Originally a DTC brand only selling through its online store, they recently recognised the importance of an omnichannel strategy.
To achieve this omnichannel goal, The Honest Company has recently partnered with several major retailers, including Walmart, Publix, GNC, and Ulta Beauty.
In their Q4 2023 report, The Honest Company showed a 10% revenue increase, reaching $90m (£71.2m).
Key takeaway
The Honest Company's commitment to transparency and sustainability has resonated with consumers, making it a leader in the eco-conscious market.
10. Kate Hudson - Fabletics
Co-founded by actress Kate Hudson in 2013, Fabletics has become a billion-dollar brand known for stylish and affordable activewear for women and men.
Their success hinges on their winning £54.99 VIP membership program (with more than 2M members!) that unlocks discounts and personalised offers.
They showcase models with different body sizes to improve customer experience and reduce returns.
It also helps Fabletics gather valuable data on their customer preferences so they continuously improve and refine their products.
Fabletics has a massive valuation of $5 billion and generated over $700 million annual revenues in 2022.
Key takeaway
Fabletics’ success highlights the importance of using customer data and personalisation to create brand loyalty.
In 2024, celebrity brands are transforming the market with innovative and inclusive approaches.
Rihanna, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Selena Gomez led brands championing diversity, sustainability, and mental health.
Kylie Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and others blend authenticity with savvy social media strategies, setting new standards in beauty and fashion.
They leverage their star power to not only sell products but also connect with consumers on a deeper level.
Celebrity brands are setting a new standard to follow for e-commerce brands and omnichannel.
