Your small business may sell and ship physical goods. Or it may sell digital downloads. But why stop at just one source of revenue?
With WooCommerce, you don’t have to limit yourself to a single product type — you can sell much more. And by doing so, you can increase your profits, make your store stand out, and maybe even boost the happiness of your customers.
Let’s take a look at how WooCommerce can help you grow your revenue by adding physical products, digital goods, memberships, or selling your time.
Physical products
Physical goods are typically stocked and shipped on a per-order basis. But unless you’re marketing to bring those customers back, this format may not lead to recurring revenue.
One twist on the idea of selling physical products is to offer them on a subscription basis. The subscription model is an excellent way to offer products at a pace you’re comfortable with, and, if subscriptions are maintained, it introduces revenue you can count on every month.
This model is perfect for items that require replenishment on a regular basis, like food or coffee. It also works for “monthly box” or “item of the month” clubs, where customers get a new (surprise) item every 30 days.
And if you’re already using
PayPal Express Checkout, you’ll be all set to take recurring payments from your customers no matter how many subscriptions you sell.
Digital goods
Digital products vary in price, function, and size just as much as physical ones, but they can’t be handled or used in the “real world.”
One of the most common ways business owners add digital goods is by selling their knowledge. This usually comes in the form of an eBook or downloadable guide, but it could also be a video or audio recording.
If you’re already selling courses or education online, you can also use the subscription model we suggested above -- for example, subscribers get one new eBook or course via email each month.
Memberships
Your customers don’t just want amazing products backed by outstanding service. They want to feel like they’re part of something exclusive, like they’ve discovered a hidden secret.
This desire for exclusivity has led to the popularity of
memberships, where customers pay a small fee for access to exclusive products, content, or services.
If you want to add memberships to your store, think about what products or content would be desirable enough to merit a paid membership. Would you want to put a limit on specific products? Or only allow members to read your blog posts full of invaluable education?
Your time
Your time is valuable. That’s why it makes such a hot commodity, and why many businesses have been built upon the notion of selling it.
If you’re an expert in your field — and don’t sell yourself short, you probably are — you can sell your time to make a little extra money. With
WooCommerce Bookings you can easily set up online coaching sessions or in-person meetings.
Your customers can make bookings from your website with this same extension. Maybe it’s time for you to start taking appointments at your physical location? That’s another great way to boost revenue (and cut down on hassle).
Grow your store by adding a new product type
No matter what you’re currently selling with WooCommerce, it’s worth considering adding a secondary revenue stream with a new product type. Doing so can help you stand out, bring in new customers, and boost your sales.
We wish you luck as you continue to grow your store!
This article represents the thoughts of the author. You should always seek your own independent business and legal advice.