Appstle | 36 Best Product Ideas for Ecommerce Subscription Box Business

36 Best Product Ideas for Ecommerce Subscription Box Business

Appstle | 36 Best Product Ideas for Ecommerce Subscription Box Business

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The subscription box business model is on the rise. 

In 2022, the global subscription box market hit a whopping US$ 28.1 Billion, and experts predict it’s gonna shoot up to US$ 73.6 Billion by 2028. 

16.5% growth rate!

Why the hype? 

It’s simple – people love buying subscriptions for the ease of purchase that the boxes bring to them. But a subscription is successful only when the products you offer are of value to them. 

If you’re someone who’s just starting out and looking for ideas on what products people would love subscription boxes on, we got your back. 

What is an eCommerce subscription model?

An eCommerce subscription model is a system through which brands can sell products and services on a recurring basis. With subscriptions, customers do not need to place orders repeatedly, rather, they sign up for the subscription service once and receive orders on a pre-decided date. Customers can pay the subscription fee on a periodic basis – monthly, quarterly, or annually. Some examples of eCommerce subscription models include a weekly grocery subscription, a monthly wine and cheese subscription, magazine subscriptions, etc.

Best product ideas for subscription box business model 

While there are several products you can set up a subscription box around, here are some that we have seen working the best: 

1. Art supplies subscription  

An Art Supplies Store is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that offers a subscription-based model for artists and creative individuals to receive a regular supply of art materials. 

Subscribers receive a curated selection of art supplies delivered to their doorstep, helping them stay inspired and well-equipped for their artistic projects.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a monthly package of art supplies.
  • Curated selection based on the subscriber’s preferences and medium of art.
  • Convenient delivery to ensure artists always have the materials they need.

2. Snacks subscriptions 

A Snacks Subscription Box is a service that provides subscribers with a regular delivery of various snacks and treats. This model is designed to cater to busy professionals and individuals looking for convenient and diverse snacking options.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a box of assorted snacks regularly (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly).
  • Snacks range from healthy options to indulgent treats, customized based on preferences.
  • Ideal for people seeking convenient and exciting snacking experiences.

3. Cleaning supplies subscription

A Cleaning Supplies subscription is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that offers a convenient way for households and businesses to receive a regular supply of cleaning products. 

Subscribers can ensure that they always have the necessary supplies to keep their spaces clean and organized.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Regular delivery of cleaning supplies tailored to the subscriber’s needs.
  • Wide range of cleaning products, from eco-friendly to specialized solutions.
  • Useful for busy individuals and businesses seeking hassle-free cleaning maintenance.

4. Courier service subscription

A Courier Service subscription caters to people that require frequent shipping and delivery of packages. It is one of the popular subscription services that provides a streamlined solution for regular shipping needs, helping companies manage their logistics more effectively.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers get access to a reliable courier service subscription for regular package deliveries.
  • Cost-effective subscription plans based on shipping frequency and volume.
  • Designed to assist businesses in maintaining efficient supply chains and customer satisfaction.

5. Deodorant & perfume subscription

A Deodorant & Perfume Subscription is a service that offers a regular supply of personal care products like deodorants and perfumes. Subscribers can receive their preferred scents on a scheduled basis, ensuring they always have their favorite fragrances on hand.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a selection of deodorants and perfumes at scheduled intervals.
  • Personalized options based on scent preferences and product types.
  • Ideal for individuals who want to regularly update their personal care routine with new scents.

Recommended read: A Complete Guide To Personal Care Subscription Models In E-commerce

6. Fashion & grooming products

A Fashion & Grooming Products subscription is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that provides busy people with a regular supply of stylish clothing and grooming essentials. 

Subscribers can enjoy the convenience of having new fashion items and grooming products delivered to their doorstep, helping them maintain a polished and confident appearance.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive curated fashion items and grooming products on a regular schedule.
  • Personalized selections based on style preferences and grooming needs.
  • Ideal for individuals who want to stay fashionable and well-groomed without the hassle of shopping.

7. Gift basket subscription

A Gift Basket subscription is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that offers a thoughtful and convenient way for people to send special gifts to clients, partners, or loved ones. 

Subscribers can choose from a variety of gift baskets tailored to different occasions, making it easy to express appreciation and build relationships.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers can select from a range of themed gift baskets for various occasions.
  • Customizable options to add personal touches such as messages or branded items.
  • Perfect for businesses looking to enhance their gifting strategies and maintain connections.

8. Grocery store subscription

A Grocery Store subscription is designed to simplify the lives of busy people by delivering a regular supply of groceries and essentials. 

It is one of the popular subscription services. Subscribers can enjoy the convenience of having groceries delivered to their doorstep, saving time and ensuring they always have what they need.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive essential groceries on a set schedule (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly).
  • Customizable grocery lists based on dietary preferences and household needs.
  • Great for individuals seeking a hassle-free way to manage their grocery shopping.

9. Florist subscription

A Florist subscription brings the beauty of fresh flowers to people’s lives regularly. Subscribers receive fresh and vibrant floral arrangements on a scheduled basis, adding a touch of elegance and positivity to their environments.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive fresh flower arrangements at regular intervals.
  • Options for different flower types, colors, and styles to suit preferences.
  • Perfect for individuals who want to enhance their workspace or home with floral beauty.

10. Jewelry subscription

A Jewelry Subscription is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that offers people a regular supply of stylish and trendy jewelry pieces. 

Subscribers can enjoy wearing new accessories without the need for constant shopping, allowing them to effortlessly elevate their outfits.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive curated jewelry pieces based on personal style preferences.
  • Regular delivery of fashionable accessories, including necklaces, earrings, and more.
  • Suitable for individuals who want to keep their jewelry collection up-to-date without spending time shopping.

11. Kids products subscription 

A Kids Store subscription is a service that provides business people with a convenient way to access a variety of products for their children. Subscribers can receive a curated selection of kids’ clothing, toys, and other essentials regularly, making it easy to keep up with their growing needs.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a regular shipment of kids’ products.
  • Curated selection based on the child’s age, preferences, and needs.
  • Ideal for busy parents who want to provide their children with a variety of items.

12. Online magazine subscription

An Online Magazine subscription is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that offers people access to digital publications that cover a wide range of topics. Subscribers can enjoy reading articles, news, and insights online, keeping them informed and entertained in their areas of interest.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers gain access to a collection of online magazines.
  • Content covers diverse subjects, including business, lifestyle, technology, and more.
  • Perfect for individuals who want to stay updated and engaged in their fields.

13. Pet supplies subscription

A Pet Supplies subscription caters to people who are pet owners, ensuring they have a regular supply of essentials for their furry friends. 

It is one of the popular subscription services in which subscribers receive pet food, toys, pet care subscription and other necessary items conveniently delivered to their doorstep.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a regular delivery of pet supplies.
  • Customizable options for different types of pets and their needs.
  • Great for pet owners who want to provide consistent care for their animals.

Recommended reads:

14. Stationery subscription

A Stationery Subscription is a service that delivers a regular supply of office and writing supplies to people. Subscribers can receive items like notebooks, pens, and other stationery essentials to keep their workspace organized and productive.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a scheduled delivery of stationery items.
  • Personalized selection based on the subscriber’s preferences and work needs.
  • Ideal for professionals who want to maintain an organized and well-equipped workspace.

15. Vitamin selling

A Vitamin Selling subscription is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that provides people with a consistent supply of vitamins and supplements to support their health and well-being. 

Subscribers can receive a variety of vitamins tailored to their needs, helping them maintain optimal health.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a regular shipment of vitamins and supplements.
  • Customized vitamin selections based on individual health goals and requirements.
  • Suitable for individuals who prioritize their health and want to ensure they are getting essential nutrients.

16. Spice mix bundles

A Spice Mix Bundles subscription offers people a convenient way to enhance their culinary experiences by providing them with a variety of spice blends. 

Subscribers can enjoy experimenting with different flavors in their cooking, adding depth and uniqueness to their dishes.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a regular supply of curated spice mix bundles.
  • Spice blends are carefully selected to complement various cuisines.
  • Ideal for individuals who want to elevate their cooking with diverse flavors.

17. Books subscription

A Books Subscription is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that provides people with a continuous flow of reading material catered to their interests. Subscribers can enjoy receiving new books regularly, allowing them to stay informed, entertained, and inspired.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a curated selection of books based on their preferences.
  • Wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, business, self-help, and more.
  • Perfect for individuals who want to expand their knowledge and leisure reading.

18. Craft kits subscription 

A Craft Kits subscription delivers creative projects to people’s doorsteps, providing them with all the materials they need to engage in hands-on crafting. Subscribers can explore their artistic side and unwind through crafting activities.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive craft kits with complete supplies for various projects.
  • Projects range from painting and knitting to DIY home decor.
  • Suitable for individuals who want to indulge in creative hobbies during their downtime.

19. Tea & coffee subscription box

A Tea & Coffee Subscription Box is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that offers people a delightful way to enjoy a variety of high-quality teas and coffees. Subscribers receive a regular supply of gourmet beverages, allowing them to savor different flavors and aromas.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a selection of premium teas and coffees on a set schedule.
  • Options include various types, origins, and blends to cater to different preferences.
  • Ideal for individuals who appreciate the experience of fine teas and coffees.

20. Essential oils subscription business

An Essential Oils Subscription Business provides people with a consistent supply of aromatic essential oils.Subscribers can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of these oils, using them for relaxation, stress relief, and overall well-being.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a regular delivery of high-quality essential oils.
  • Oils are sourced for their therapeutic properties and diverse scents.
  • Suitable for individuals interested in natural remedies and aromatherapy.

21. T-shirts subscription business

A T-shirts Subscription Business is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that offers people a continuous supply of stylish and trendy t-shirts. Subscribers can receive new wardrobe additions regularly, keeping their attire updated effortlessly.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive a selection of fashionable t-shirts frequently.
  • T-shirts come in various styles, colors, and designs to match different preferences.
  • Perfect for individuals who want to maintain a fresh and stylish wardrobe rotation.

22. Spa day subscriptions

Spa Day Subscriptions offer busy business people a rejuvenating and pampering experience delivered to their doorstep. Subscribers can enjoy the luxury of spa treatments without having to leave their homes, providing them with relaxation and self-care.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive curated spa products and instructions for at-home treatments.
  • Spa kits may include facial masks, bath salts, oils, and relaxation tools.
  • Perfect for individuals who want to unwind and treat themselves after hectic workdays.

23. Cocktail subscription

A Cocktail Subscription is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that provides people with the joy of mixology by delivering premium cocktail ingredients and recipes. Subscribers can explore crafting their own cocktails and enjoy sophisticated drinks in the comfort of their homes.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive cocktail ingredients, mixers, and recipes regularly.
  • Variety of cocktails to create, from classics to unique concoctions.
  • Ideal for individuals who enjoy socializing and trying new drinks.

24. Garden care services

Garden Care Services subscription offers business people a hassle-free way to maintain their outdoor spaces. Subscribers can enjoy well-kept gardens and lawns without the effort of gardening themselves.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive regular garden maintenance services.
  • Services may include lawn mowing, pruning, weeding, and seasonal planting.
  • Suitable for individuals who want a beautifully landscaped environment without dedicating time to garden upkeep.

25. Organic food store services

Organic Food Store Services subscription is one of the product ideas for subscription box business that provides people with a reliable supply of organic and healthy groceries. Subscribers can enjoy the convenience of having fresh, pesticide-free produce and products delivered to their homes.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive regular deliveries of organic groceries and food items.
  • Wide selection including fruits, vegetables, dairy, grains, and more.
  • Perfect for individuals who prioritize healthy eating and want easy access to organic products.

Recommended read: A Complete Guide To Setting Up A Food Subscription Box Model

26. Toys and games subscription

One of the best ways for parents to ensure their kids do not get bored and are engaged with different kinds of games and toys is through toy subscriptions. Most toys and games subscription businesses offer plans based on age groups. Moreover, they also have plans based on their types of toys, for instance, educational, outdoor games, etc. 

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive deliveries based on their chosen period.
  • The subscription boxes include a selection of toys and games as well as surprise items.
  • This subscription plan is suitable for small businesses, toy creators, nurseries, individual customers, etc.

27. Wellness subscription

Health and wellness conscious consumers are always looking for unique products and experiences to try out. This is a need that wellness brands are addressing with subscription plans. For instance, products like wellness supplements, meditation accessories, reading material related to wellness, etc.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers pick a plan based on their budget and preference.
  • The subscription boxes are curated, personalized based on customers’ preferences.
  • This subscription is most suited to individuals looking to regularly buy wellness products.

28. Painting and sculpture subscription

Another subscription box trend that is gaining popularity is a subscription of high art, painting and sculpture. Subscribers receive artworks on a periodic basis, which they can display in their homes and offices. For instance, a few paintings every three months. Once the three-month period is over, the old ones are replaced by new ones.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers receive paintings, sculptures and photographs at a predefined period.
  • Artworks of different types, color, sizes, and styles to give a fresh look to interiors.
  • Most suitable for homes and offices that have a lot of gatherings and events and require new decor periodically.

29. Online networking community subscription

Just like offline clubs where people buy subscriptions and memberships, online networking community subscriptions are also a popular model. Customers subscribe, mostly annually, and attend online networking events. This model is gaining popularity among professionals and entrepreneurs looking to network. One of the key reasons for the success of online networking subscriptions is that people are looking to build new ways to connect with like minded people and are exploring new avenues for the same.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers pay an annual or a lifetime subscription fee.
  • Subscribers get to participate in online events such as talks, chats, etc.
  • This is best suited for brands and individuals who want to start online networks and build communities.

30. Fan club subscriptions

Another kind of subscription is fan club subscription. Mostly run by celebrities, such as singers, actors, sportspersons, writers, etc. Fans can subscribe to the fan club in order to receive discounts, get behind-the-scenes content, get invites to meet ups, etc. Fan club subscriptions are popular mostly amongst young consumers. 

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Fans buy subscriptions to receive exclusive perks and benefits.
  • Fans receive discounts, get exclusive content, invites for meet ups, and participate in discussion forums.
  • Best suited for celebrities, well-known personalities, influencers, etc.

31. Luxury bags subscription

It may seem like subscriptions in the luxury industry have a niche market, but you’d be surprised to know the sheer number of customers who sign up for luxury subscriptions. Think bags, watches, shoes, accessories, and more. Luxury brands have been offering various types of subscriptions, such as mystery luxury boxes, curated boxes, etc.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Customers sign up to luxury subscriptions based on their likes and preferences.
  • Typically, luxury subscriptions offer bags, accessories, etc.
  • It is most suitable to high-end customers who have a high spending capacity and like to try new luxury products regularly.

32. Live classes and workshops

There are many classes and courses that can be taken online, for instance, language, dance, and music, among others. Courses and workshops subscriptions are popular among consumers across generations. Subscribers get access to thousands of courses and classes to learn from. 

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers pay a subscription fee based on the duration they choose, for example, half-yearly, annually, etc.
  • Subscribers get access to online workshops and classes matching their interests.
  • Most suitable for businesses and individuals who want to share their knowledge and expertise with a community of learners.

33. Subscription to digital resources

Subscriptions to digital resources are popular amongst individuals and businesses that need to create a lot of content. For instance, stock photographs, fonts, illustrations, icons, audio, templates, etc. Typically, these subscriptions are available for a monthly, half-yearly, or annual fee. Moreover, these subscriptions offer plans based on the number of 

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Customers choose from different subscription plans based on their budget and requirements.
  • Subscribers can utilize the subscription to download and use the digital resources based on the plan they chose.
  • This type of subscription is most suited to creators, individuals, and businesses.

34. Software subscriptions

SaaS subscriptions are among the most popular types of subscriptions, no matter the industry. Whether it’s sales, marketing, human resource, payments, etc. there’s software for everything and a subscription model, too. 

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers choose a plan based on their budget and requirements.
  • They use the software service based on their chosen plan.
  • This subscription type is suitable for eCommerce businesses.

35. Cooking and meal planning subscriptions

The eCommerce FMCG market is huge and flooded with subscription options. One such subscription gaining popularity is cooking and meal planning subscription. Health conscious consumers and those who like to make their own meals are opting for cooking and meal planning subscriptions.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Subscribers choose a plan as per their requirements.
  • They get to change, swap, pause subscriptions when they need to.
  • This subscription model is most suitable to small businesses, restaurants, home chefs, etc.

36. Deodorant and perfume subscriptions

Personal care and grooming products subscriptions are picking up in the eCommerce market. Among these are deodorant and perfume subscriptions. Customers sign up for subscriptions and choose their preferred plans to receive deodorants, discounts, try new products, participate in surveys, etc. Popular among all generations, deodorant subscriptions are available for different durations.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Deodorant subscriptions are available for perfumes, deodorants and other fragrance products.
  • Subscribers sign up for quarterly, six monthly or yearly subscriptions.
  • This subscription is most suited to small and large fragrance brands and consumers who need to buy fragrances regularly.

Why start a subscription model?

Subscription business models have proven to be profitable and beneficial to customers. There are many advantages to the subscription model. Here are some:

1. Increases average order volume

The subscription model makes it easy for customers to order many products and services as opposed to a one time purchase. For instance, since subscription deliveries are spaced out, customers prefer to order more in each delivery. Moreover, brands can create offers and bundles to encourage customers to increase the order volume.

2. Discounts and deals

Customers can avail discounted prices and other deals through subscriptions. A subscription is an exclusive and long-term association between the customer and the brand, and hence, brands offer benefits and perks to customers. Discounted prices and deals are the most common element that attract customers to sign up for subscriptions.

3. Discover and try new products

Brands often add a surprise new product or a tester to subscription deliveries. This is a fantastic way for brands to introduce new products to customers. Customers, too, get to discover and try new products, which they would have otherwise hesitated to purchase.

4. Flexible delivery options

Most brands offer flexible delivery options for their subscriptions. For instance, customers can not only choose the delivery intervals but they can also change delivery dates, intervals, etc., as per their requirements. Moreover, subscription models also give the option to cancel and pause deliveries.

5. Adds convenience to the shopping process

When ordering the same products and services on a recurring basis, the process can get tedious. Customers have to search for the products, add them to the cart, add delivery details, payment details, etc. This process can get long and tedious. But the same can be converted into an automated process via subscription models. This saves customers’ time and makes the shopping process more enjoyable.

What are the components of a good subscription model? 

1. Value proposition

Subscriptions are long-term commitments for customers. When you think of subscription business ideas, keep the value proposition in mind. To make your subscription enticing, offer things that add real value to customers. For instance, highlight what’s unique about your subscription, benefits and features that make your brand stand out from the others, and the value you offer, transactional and beyond monetary. For example, convenience, exclusivity, community, personalized services, customization, etc.

2. Subscription plans and pricing

Your subscribers have different needs and hence, a single subscription plan may not work for everyone. The solution: Offer multiple plans to choose from. Offer exclusive perks and benefits under each plan. Price your plans to cater to different customer segments. Ensure your plan pricing is transparent and there are no hidden costs. Additionally, by offering flexible billing cycles, you can cater to different customer preferences. Choose your plans based on the subscription model business ideas you pick.

3. Simple onboarding process

A good first impression goes a long way. To offer a seamless onboarding process, make the sign-up process easy—a user-friendly interface and simple steps. Offer assistance to customers to make the sign-up process easy. During this process, allow customers to customize their subscriptions. Another thing that adds to a good onboarding process is a welcome note to subscribers telling them what they can expect from you.

4. Quality products and services

Conscious consumers prefer quality over quantity. And if you want to retain your subscribers for the long run, ensure you don’t compromise with the quality. When it comes to quality, also consider personalization. For instance, offer curated selection of products based on customers’ personal tastes. Consistency of quality is key, no matter the subscription business idea you choose. 

5. Timely and reliable fulfillment

No matter how good your products and services are, if you don’t have equally good delivery and fulfillment processes, it will impact your subscriber satisfaction. Timely deliveries are a must. For this, work with reliable shipping partners. Also, ensure your subscribers can track their subscription box deliveries. Use a subscription app that enables automated notifications about deliveries. Another key aspect of your subscription delivery is its packaging. Is it appealing, sustainable, eco-friendly, and safe for the products in it? Address all these factors for a seamless delivery process.  

6. Flexibility in managing subscriptions

When you make managing subscriptions easy for customers, for instance, change delivery dates, change products, skip deliveries, etc., they feel more relaxed. A self-service subscription dashboard can help provide flexibility to customers. Additionally, customers may require help from you, so ensure your customer support channels are always available to subscribers. One of the most important aspects of subscriptions is easy cancellation. Reduce customer irritation and potential negative feedback by offering easy cancellation options within your subscription portal.

7. Engagement and retention strategies

Once you finalize your profitable subscription business idea, you must come up with engagement and retention strategies for the same. For instance, keep communicating with customers regularly. This way you can keep your finger on the pulse of your subscription business. Offer a loyalty program and combine it with your subscription business model idea.

Collect feedback from customers periodically and keep improving your subscription business.

8. Marketing and acquisition

To scale your subscription business idea, you will need to consistently market it and acquire new subscribers. Some ways to do so are to create targeted marketing campaigns, reach out to your potential audience on various platforms, create a referral program, offer deals and discounts to incentivize customers to subscribe, etc.

9. Analytics and insights

An efficient subscription app should have in-built data analytics and insights capabilities. Track and measure key performance metrics such as new subscriptions, churn, customer lifetime value, etc. Collect data on customer behavior and changing patterns to personalize your subscription offerings. Use data-based insights to consistently optimize your subscription business model for better results.

10. Safety and privacy compliance

Customers are wary of sharing their personal details with brands due to the rising online fraud cases. That is why, for subscription businesses, it is essential to ensure data protection measures and compliance. Follow best practices for the safety of your customers’ personal information. Additionally, ensure payment gateway security and compliance.

How to choose a product for the subscription model? 

Here are some ways to choose a product for the subscription model. 

1. Identify a niche

Choosing a product involves considering several aspects. First, deeply analyze your target audience. This will help you to identify a niche that closely aligns with your expertise, interests, and market demand. Next, select those products from the niche that has the potential to generate consistent sales. The subscription model will only work if the product is trusted and has a higher repurchasing rate. Also, look for areas where there’s a gap in the market or unmet needs that you can fulfill. 

2. Research demand

Next, conduct deep market research. It will help you understand about the 

  • Demand for products 
  • Current trends & patterns
  • Competitor offerings 
  • Subscription box ideas

You can also use social media & forums to engage with your customers and collect qualitative insights. Also, make sure to gather feedback from all your customers for direct insights. 

3. Consider consumables or replenishable

Your subscription model will only be a success if your products create a consistent demand. Hence it is very important to consider consumable or replenishable products. Consumables are items used up regularly, and replenishables require replacement over time.

Some examples of subscription box products are food and beverages, beauty products, pet supplies, or household essentials.

4. Focus on value and convenience

A subscription model is for convenience, so start by knowing how exactly the value your selected product is offering. Is it

  • Simplifying their lives by reducing the efforts?
  • Saving them money?
  • Or providing exclusive access to products they love?

Once you have got your hands on unique value propositions, create a subscription model around that USP. It will be more successful and profitable. 

5. Evaluate profitability

A subscription model is only meaningful for your business if it is creating enough profits. You need to consider factors such as the cost of goods, packaging, shipping, and overhead expenses. Create pricing strategies after considering these factors as it will help you come up with some profitable subscription box ideas.

6. Test the market

Before fully committing to a product, consider testing the market to understand its dynamics and potential demand. You can test your subscription box business ideas with a pilot program or limited launch to gauge interest and collect feedback from early adopters. This can help you refine your offering and make necessary adjustments before scaling up.

7. Focus on customer experience

The subscription model saves time and money for your customers. But you can go beyond, and focus on additional factors to enhance their customer experience. These factors are

  • Product Quality
  • Packaging
  • Customization options
  • Multichannel customer support

Also, make sure to create a simple process for sign-up to subscription models where you provide autofill options for repetitive questions.
Recommended read: How to Get Your First 1000 Subscription Customers (Checklist)

Examples of the best subscription business model ideas 

1. Bite Dental Care Subscription

Appstle | 36 Best Product Ideas for Ecommerce Subscription Box Business

Bite is a dental care brand. The subscription model that sends deliveries every four months. The delivery includes toothpaste bits in eco-friendly packaging. Subscribers can cancel, postpone, or change flavors for their subscription deliveries. The brand offers discounts on subscriptions as well as products that can be bought one time without subscription. Subscription business model ideas around recurring and replenishable products are among the more profitable subscription business ideas.

2. Once Upon A Farm

Appstle | 36 Best Product Ideas for Ecommerce Subscription Box Business

The food and beverage brand, Once Upon A Farm, offers cold-pressed fruit and vegetable pouches in different flavors. Food and beverage is among one of the best subscription business ideas. Customers can subscribe for one, two, three, four, or five week subscription plans. The brand offers a 15% discount on subscriptions and allows subscribers to customize their subscription boxes. 

3. Society Socks

Appstle | 36 Best Product Ideas for Ecommerce Subscription Box Business

Society Socks offers a sock subscription model. Subscribers can subscribe for monthly, three-month, six-month, and yearly plans and receive a surprise box of two pairs of socks every month. The brand makes it more meaningful by associating with social and charity causes. Additionally, subscribers get a discount on six-month and yearly subscription plans.

Conclusion

In the dynamic world of subscription box businesses, finding the right product ideas is essential. 

Whether you choose to offer niche items or trendy goodies, we are here to support you in setting up a subscription box model on your online store. 

Establishing a successful subscription model in the eCommerce industry requires careful consideration of various factors. 

That’s exactly why Appstle is one of the trusted Shopify subscription apps providing powerful and customizable subscription features.

With an easy-to-use admin dashboard, Appstle provides management features, automation, subscription widgets, and growth-focused subscription analytics to help grow your business.

Want to learn more about Appstle? 

Reach out to our experts or explore our Shopify apps today

FAQs

What makes a good subscription product?

A good subscription product 

  • Comes with a never-dying demand
  • Has relevance & quality
  • Generate recurring revenue
  • Offer values and convenience 

What is a subscription-based product?

A subscription-based product is a model in which customers pay recurring fees for continuous access to the products. These products are consumables or replenishable that create a consistent demand for which the business creates a subscription plan. This plan offers customers a convenience where they do not need to re-order products instead they get continuous access.

How do I make my subscriptions profitable?

To make your subscription model successful, it is important to 

  • Establish an expertise in your niche
  • Allot a justified pricing to the subscription plans.
  • Offer a unique value proposition
  • Provide customization options 
  • Products must be consumables or replenishable to generate consistent demands. 

What is the subscription model in e-commerce? 

In e-commerce, a subscription model provides customers a continuous access to products with recurring fees on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis. It is quite popular in e-commerce because customers get their products without the need for re-ordering. Examples include beauty boxes, snack boxes, and pet subscription boxes.

What do people subscribe to the most?

Most people subscribe to daily essentials that have to be purchased on a recurring basis. For example, groceries, medicine, health supplements, newspapers, etc. However, today’s savvy customers also subscribe to clothing, luxury products, coffee, wine, etc.

What to do for 100 subscribers?

To increase the number of subscribers and to get 100 customers to subscribe everyday, you must ensure you promote and market your subscription plans well. Moreover, make the subscription plan unique and engaging for customers to want to sign up.

About the author

Appstle | 36 Best Product Ideas for Ecommerce Subscription Box Business

Vanhishikha Bhargava

Vanhishikha Bhargava is the Content Marketer for Appstle Solutions. You’ll always find her creating content or reading up on the industry with a cup of coffee in hand, which makes her anxious at times! But stay tuned for insightful pieces. Always.

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