How Product Options Can Help Increase AOV in Your Shopify Store

Average Order Value (AOV) is one of the most critical metrics for scaling your Shopify store. While traffic is essential, increasing the value of each transaction is a faster and more cost-effective path to growth. One proven strategy? Leveraging custom product options.

Let’s explore how using product options—like add-ons, customizations, and upsells—can directly boost your AOV and customer satisfaction.

What is AOV and Why It Matters?

Average Order Value = Total Revenue ÷ Number of Orders

By increasing the AOV, you're generating more revenue per transaction without needing additional ad spend or traffic. This improves your ROI, LTV, and overall profitability.

How Product Options Impact AOV

When you offer shoppers the ability to customize, enhance, or bundle their purchase, you're opening the door to higher spending. Here's how product options help:

  • Upsell complementary features like engraving or premium materials
  • Cross-sell related add-ons like chargers, accessories, or gift wrapping
  • Encourage personalization which boosts perceived value
  • Create tiered pricing through product upgrades

Examples of High-Converting Product Options

1. Add-On Accessories

Example: A phone case with optional screen protector, lanyard, or cleaning kit.

💡 These simple additions can increase order size by 15–30%.

2. Personalization Features

Example: Offer custom engraving, monograms, or printed messages for a small fee.

💡 Personalized products feel more valuable, increasing price elasticity.

3. Product Bundles

Let customers build their own kits with related products.

Example: A candle set where users can choose their own scents and accessories.

💡 Helps push customers toward a higher-priced combination.

4. Premium Upgrades

Example: Offer higher quality material, extended warranty, or premium packaging.

💡 Great for offering “Gold,” “Plus,” or “Pro” versions of your base product.

How to Implement Product Options in Shopify

Shopify's native variant system is limited, but apps like SM Product Options unlock powerful customization features.

Key Features to Use:

  • Checkboxes and radio buttons for add-ons
  • Conditional logic to show premium options only when selected
  • Price add-ons to increase total cart value
  • Image swatches and text boxes for personalization

Recommended Apps:

  • SM Product Options – Add unlimited options with conditional logic and pricing
  • Bold Product Options – Advanced upsell and customization flows
  • Infinite Options – Simple custom field creation

Pro Tips to Maximize AOV Using Product Options

  • Use psychological pricing: Offer small add-ons ($3–$10) that feel like minor upgrades.
  • Highlight best value: Pre-select bundles or show what most customers choose.
  • Reduce friction: Use visual selectors and previews to make customization seamless.
  • Upsell post-purchase: Use Shopify apps to offer upgrades in thank-you or order status pages.

Real Store Example

A pet portrait store offered:

  • Background color choices (+$3)
  • Framing options (+$15)
  • Gift message (+$5)

This simple setup added $20+ per order on average and boosted their AOV by 38% in 3 months.

Conclusion

Product options are more than just fields—they're conversion tools. When implemented with strategy, they significantly improve your customer’s buying experience and increase your average order value.

Looking to add custom product options to your Shopify store? Try SM Product Options and start increasing your revenue per sale.

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