Imagine a customer’s sigh of relief. They’ve just realized they’re about to run out of pet food or their essential health supplements are nearly gone. Then, they remember that it’s already on its way.
That’s the simple attraction of recurring order subscriptions.
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Sign up for freeWhat is a recurring order subscription?
A recurring order subscription is a service that automatically delivers products to customers on a set schedule (e.g., weekly, monthly). Instead of placing a new order each time, customers set it up once and let it run on products they buy regularly like pet food, vitamins or cleaning supplies.
The appeal to customers is straightforward: No more remembering to reorder, no risk of running out, and, often, a lower price for committing to repeat purchases.
What this means for your business
This desire for peace of mind and convenience presents a significant opportunity. Recurring orders build predictable revenue, enhance customer lifetime value and cultivate unwavering loyalty.
Why customers commit to recurring order subscriptions
When customers sign up for a recurring order, they’re making a choice rooted in routine. They weave these into the rhythm of their lives – the monthly bag of dog food, the weekly coffee beans, the vitamins that arrive just as the old bottle runs out. Once that rhythm is established, it becomes second nature, an effortless part of how they shop.
Motivation for subscribing to recurring orders
Save money
Make sure I have what I need
Make life easier
Save time
Avoid trip to the store
Help me stick to a budget
What this means for your business
Recurring orders succeed when they solve a real problem. Position your program to help customers save and stay stocked, and you’ll be speaking directly to what matters most to them.
What customers are ordering through recurring subscriptions
The products customers choose reveal where the strongest opportunities lie. Essentials dominate, as you might guess. These are predictable purchases, often tied to a fixed schedule, making them a natural fit for automatic delivery.
Top products in recurring order subscriptions
Pet food/supplies
Health products
Beauty products
Household items
Groceries (pantry items)
Groceries (fresh and frozen)
Baby products
What this means for your business
Look for products that customers buy on a schedule. Essentials and consumables are strong candidates for recurring order programs, offering a reliable path to repeat sales.
Business impact of recurring orders on revenue and loyalty
Recurring orders do more than secure repeat sales. These programs can influence customer behaviour in ways that increase overall revenue, strengthen loyalty and generate advocacy. Knowing how subscriptions drive additional purchases and recommendations helps you measure their true value to your business.
Impact of recurring order subscriptions
Made additional purchases from the same retailer outside of recurring orders
Added one‑time products to recurring orders
Would recommend recurring order subscriptions to friends and family
What this means for your business
Recurring order customers are a high‑value audience. They’re more likely to buy more, try new products and spread the word about your brand. Nurturing these relationships can amplify both revenue and reputation.
How reliable delivery shapes the customer experience
For customers, convenience extends all the way home where a standard of reliability, safety and tracking is essential, especially when the products are tied to daily routines or needs.
What this means for your business
Reliable delivery is non‑negotiable. Partner with carriers that consistently meet expectations and protect the trust customers place in your brand.
Final takeaways
Recurring order subscriptions meet customers’ need for convenience, certainty and value while giving businesses predictable revenue and deeper customer relationships. By aligning your offer with products customers buy regularly, ensuring reliable delivery and nurturing these high‑value relationships, you can turn recurring orders into a long‑term growth engine.
All statistics were taken from Canada Post’s 2024 eShopper Survey, a survey of 5,000 Canadian online shoppers conducted by Phase 5 Consultation.
Ready to place a recurring order for growth?
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