The Best Popup Strategies for Shopify Stores in 2025 (With Real Examples)

Popups get a bad rap. But when done right, they’re not annoying — they’re one of the most effective ways to grow your email and SMS list, reduce cart abandonment, and boost revenue.

In 2025, Shopify stores are facing more competition than ever. That means capturing (and keeping) a visitor’s attention is critical. Smart popup strategies help you turn casual browsers into loyal customers — without hurting the user experience.

Here’s a breakdown of the best-performing popup strategies for Shopify stores this year, plus real-life examples you can swipe and launch today.

Why Popups Still Work (When Done Right)

Popups convert because they create a focused moment for your visitors. The key is relevance and timing. Instead of spamming every visitor with the same offer, modern popups are personalized, well-designed, and carefully targeted.

Stats don’t lie: Brands using well-optimized popups see email list growth increase by up to 400% — and higher conversion rates across the board.

1. The Welcome Offer Popup

What it is: A popup shown to new visitors, typically offering a discount or special incentive in exchange for an email (and/or SMS) signup.

Why it works: New visitors often need a little push to take the first step. A welcome discount removes friction and gets them into your list right away.

Example: A skincare brand offers 10% off your first order when you sign up. After joining, the code is sent instantly, encouraging a first purchase.

2. Exit-Intent Cart Saver Popup

What it is: A popup triggered when a visitor’s mouse moves toward the top of the screen (suggesting they’re about to leave).

Why it works: This is your last chance to save an abandoned cart. A well-timed discount or free shipping offer can recover sales you’d otherwise lose.

3. Free Shipping Threshold Popup

What it is: A dynamic popup that notifies customers how close they are to free shipping as they shop.

Why it works: Shoppers hate paying for shipping. Encouraging them to add more to their cart to unlock free shipping increases average order value (AOV).

4. Spin-to-Win (Gamified) Popup

What it is:

A gamified popup that lets visitors spin a wheel for a chance to win different discounts or perks.

Why it works: Gamification increases engagement and opt-in rates by making sign-ups fun and rewarding.

Example: A fashion store offers a spin to win 10%, 15%, 20% off - plus free shipping surprises

5. Limited-Time Offer Popup

What it Is: popup with a countdown timer or urgent copy to create FOMO (fear of missing out).

Why it works: Time-sensitive offers encourage visitors to act now instead of waiting (and forgetting).

Example: "Flash Sale! 20% off everything — Ends in 1 hour."

6. Back-in-Stock Notification Popup

What it is: A popup that allows visitors to sign up to be notified when an out-of-stock item returns.

Why it works: Instead of losing potential sales, you collect interested leads and build anticipation.

Example: "Be the first to know! Join the waitlist for our best-selling hoodie."

7. Giveaway & Contest Popup

What it is: A popup inviting visitors to enter a giveaway or contest in exchange for their email (and social follows).

Why it works: Giveaways are one of the fastest ways to grow your list and generate buzz.

Example: "Win a $250 gift card! Enter your email and follow us on Instagram to join."

Best Practices for Popups in 2025

• Personalize by behavior. Don’t show the same popup to everyone. Tailor offers to returning visitors, cart abandoners, or mobile shoppers.
• Keep it on-brand. Match your popup design to your brand’s colors, fonts, and tone.
• Use clear, concise copy. Visitors should instantly understand the value.
• Optimize for mobile. More than 70% of ecommerce traffic is now on mobile. Make sure popups are easy to interact with on small screens.
• Limit frequency. Avoid bombarding customers with too many popups — you’ll risk annoying them and increasing bounce rates.

Real Results from Shopify Stores Using Popups

Merchants using Privy’s popup tools have grown their email lists by as much as 5x — while increasing average order value and reducing abandoned carts.

Bring These Strategies to Life with Privy

Popups don’t have to be complicated or spammy. With Privy, you can launch these high-performing popups in minutes — no coding, no designer needed.

• Pre-built templates
• Mobile-optimized designs
• Integrated email & SMS list growth
• Advanced targeting and triggers

Start turning visitors into loyal customers today. [Get started with Privy — free trial]