Expert Answer • 2 min read

Can I show different discounts to first-time vs returning customers?

As an e-commerce business owner, I'm looking to create more personalized discount strategies that recognize the different value and behaviors of first-time and returning customers. I want to incentivize new customers to make their first purchase while also rewarding loyal customers who consistently buy from my store. How can I segment my audience and create targeted discount campaigns that appeal to each group's unique characteristics and motivations?
Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Founder & CEO

2 min

TL;DR - Quick Answer

Yes, you can use customer segmentation tools and platform features to create distinct discount strategies for first-time and returning customers, using different discount percentages, unique code structures, and personalized targeting based on purchase history.

Complete Expert Analysis

Segmented Discount Strategies for Customer Lifecycle

Tailoring discounts to customer segments is a powerful way to increase conversion rates, customer loyalty, and overall store revenue. Here's a comprehensive approach to differentiating offers.

Segmentation Strategies

Customer TypeDiscount ApproachTypical OfferGoal
First-Time CustomersHigher initial discount15-20% off first orderEncourage first purchase
Returning CustomersLoyalty-based rewards10% off + free shippingIncrease repeat purchases
VIP/Frequent BuyersExclusive perks25% off, early accessReward and retain top customers

Implementation Techniques

1. Customer Data Tracking

  • Track total number of purchases
  • Monitor time between purchases
  • Analyze average order value

2. Discount Code Strategies

  • First-time: WELCOME15 (higher percentage)
  • Returning: LOYAL10 (smaller percentage)
  • VIP: ELITE25 (highest percentage)

3. Targeting Methods

  • Email list segmentation
  • Pixel tracking
  • Purchase history filters

Advanced Segmentation Criteria

First-Time Customer Targeting

  • Zero previous purchases
  • New email domain
  • First-time site visitor
  • Acquisition channel

Returning Customer Targeting

  • 2+ previous purchases
  • Consistent purchase frequency
  • Higher average order value
  • Repeat within 90 days

Automate Segmented Discounts with Growth Suite

Growth Suite revolutionizes customer segmentation by automatically tracking visitor behavior and generating personalized, time-limited discount offers. The platform uses sophisticated algorithms to distinguish between first-time and returning customers, dynamically adjusting discount percentages and durations based on individual purchase intent. With real-time behavioral tracking, Growth Suite ensures that each visitor receives a precisely targeted offer, maximizing conversion potential while maintaining brand integrity and preventing discount abuse.

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Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Muhammed Tüfekyapan

Founder & CEO of Growth Suite

With over a decade of experience in e-commerce optimization, Muhammed founded Growth Suite to help Shopify merchants maximize their conversion rates through intelligent behavior tracking and personalized offers. His expertise in growth strategies and conversion optimization has helped thousands of online stores increase their revenue.

E-commerce Expert Shopify Partner Growth Strategist

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