Starting an online business can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re stuck at square one: What should I sell? It’s one of the most common challenges for entrepreneurs. Your product choice isn’t just the foundation of your business; it can be the difference between thriving and struggling.
If you’ve been asking yourself, “How do I find profitable products to sell on shopify?” you’re not alone. The good news? There are proven methods to uncover profitable product ideas that align with market demand, your interests, and business goals.
This guide will walk you through 10 effective strategies to find profitable products to sell for shopify success, plus a subtle bonus tip to help you maximize each sale once your store is live. Let’s jump in!
Why Your Product Choice Matters
Before we dive into the methods, let’s talk about why finding the right product is so critical. Your product determines:
- Your target audience: Who will buy from you?
- Your marketing strategy: How will you promote your business?
- Your revenue potential: Will your margins allow for sustainable growth?
In short, this one decision lays the groundwork for your entire business. So, let’s make it count!
How to Find Profitable Products to Sell on Shopify: 10 Proven Strategies
1. Solve a Real Problem
People buy products because they make life easier, more enjoyable, or less stressful. Look around you, what are the common pain points in your daily life?
How to Identify Problems:
- Talk to people: Ask friends, family, or colleagues about their frustrations.
- Search forums: Platforms like Reddit or Quora are goldmines for problem-solving discussions.
- Read product reviews: Negative reviews often highlight unmet needs.
Example:
Reusable silicone bags became a hit because they solved the issue of single-use plastic waste.
2. Research Trending Products
Trends are exciting opportunities if you catch them early. But how do you separate a fleeting fad from a lasting trend?
Where to Spot Trends:
- Google Trends: See what’s gaining traction.
- Social media: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram often spark viral product trends.
- Influencers: Follow thought leaders in your niche for emerging ideas.
Pro Tip:
Pair trending products with a post-purchase app like Salesloop in Shopify to recommend related items, increasing sales per customer.
3. Leverage Your Passions
Selling something you’re passionate about keeps you motivated and authentic. Your enthusiasm will shine in your marketing, making it easier to connect with customers.
How to Identify Passion Products:
- Hobbies: What activities bring you joy?
- Personal needs: Have you ever searched for a product and wished it existed?
Example:
A fitness enthusiast might sell custom workout bands or curated meal prep kits.
4. Explore Niche Markets
Instead of trying to appeal to everyone, focus on a smaller, dedicated audience. Niche markets often have less competition and more loyal customers.
How to Find Niches:
- Subcultures: Think eco-conscious travelers, vegan athletes, or urban gardeners.
- Customization: Offer unique or personalized products.
Example:
Minimalist wallets became a hit by targeting people who wanted functionality without bulk.
5. Use Product Research Tools
Technology simplifies product research, helping you find ideas backed by data.
Recommended Tools:
- Jungle Scout: Analyze Amazon’s best sellers.
- Oberlo: Discover trending dropshipping products.
- AnswerThePublic: Find questions people ask about products in your niche.
Example:
Using Jungle Scout, you might notice that portable desk accessories are trending among remote workers.
6. Test Products with Dropshipping
Not ready to commit to inventory? Dropshipping lets you test the market without upfront investment. You can experiment with multiple products to see what resonates.
Benefits of Dropshipping:
- No need to stock inventory.
- Low financial risk.
- Quick start-up process.
Example:
Test selling accessories like phone cases or kitchen gadgets, then expand to custom designs if they perform well.
7. Analyze Competitors
Studying your competition can reveal gaps in the market. What are they selling, and what could you do better?
How to Analyze Competitors:
- Identify top sellers in your niche.
- Study their product reviews—both positive and negative.
- Look for missing features or customer complaints.
Example:
If competitor reviews mention slow shipping, prioritize fast delivery to stand out.
8. Follow Social Media Buzz
Social media isn’t just for engagement—it’s a discovery tool. Pay attention to hashtags, trends, and viral content.
Platforms to Watch:
- TikTok: Trending products often take off here first.
- Pinterest: A hub for aspirational product ideas.
- Facebook Groups: Join communities related to your niche.
Pro Tip:
Use social buzz to identify complementary products that can be upsold through Shopify’s thank-you pages.
9. Offer Subscription Products
People love convenience. Subscription models are booming because they provide recurring value to customers while ensuring steady revenue for you.
How to Create a Subscription Product:
- Bundle popular items into monthly kits (e.g., skincare, snacks, or stationery).
- Offer exclusive perks, like early access to new products.
Example:
Subscription coffee boxes have taken off, allowing customers to try different blends without hunting for them.
10. Listen to Customer Feedback
Sometimes, your customers will tell you exactly what they want—if you’re paying attention.
How to Gather Insights:
- Surveys: Ask customers what they’d like to see.
- Social media comments: Pay attention to what people request.
- Customer service queries: Trends in support emails can guide your next move.
Example:
A women’s fashion brand might learn through feedback that there’s demand for plus-size options, leading to an expanded product line.
Maximizing Sales with Shopify Post-Purchase Apps
Once you’ve chosen a product, the work doesn’t end at checkout. A post-purchase tool like salesloop can help you boost sales by:
- Offering one-click upsells or cross-sells.
- Recommending related products based on customer purchases.
- Providing personalized thank-you messages that build loyalty.
For example, if a customer buys a yoga mat, you could use a post-purchase app to suggest blocks or straps they might need, increasing the average order value.
How to Evaluate Your Product Idea
Not every idea is a winner. Before committing, ask yourself:
- Is there demand? Are people actively searching for this product?
- What’s the competition like? Can you differentiate yourself?
- Is it profitable? Will the margins support your goals?
Conclusion
Finding the right product to sell takes creativity, research, and a touch of strategy. Whether you’re solving a common problem, tapping into trends, or diving into niche markets, the key is to start small, test your ideas, and listen to your audience.
And don’t forget-the journey doesn’t end at finding a product. By using Shopify’s post-purchase app like salesloop, you can create an exceptional shopping experience that drives repeat business and increases sales.
So, what’s stopping you? Start exploring these methods today, and watch your e-commerce dream take shape!
FAQs
1. Why is choosing the right product important?
Your product shapes your audience, marketing strategy, and profits. A good choice meets demand and supports business growth.
2. How can I find a product that solves a problem?
Look for common pain points by:
- Talking to people.
- Reading negative reviews.
- Browsing forums like Reddit.
3. What tools help find trending products?
Use tools like Google Trends, TikTok, Instagram, and Jungle Scout to discover popular products.
4. How do I know profitable products to sell on shopify ?
Check demand, analyze competition, and calculate margins to ensure the product can generate profit.
5. What is dropshipping?
Dropshipping lets you sell without holding inventory. It’s great for testing products with minimal risk.
6. How can post-purchase apps boost sales?
Apps like salesloopsuggest add-ons after checkout, offer discounts, and build loyalty to increase revenue.
7. How do I target niche markets?
Focus on specific audiences like eco-conscious travelers or personalized product enthusiasts
8. How do I use customer feedback to improve?
Use surveys, social media, and support tickets to identify what customers want or need.
Leave a Reply