In the competitive world of Shopify app development, the battle for user attention and retention has never been more intense. With new apps popping up every week, it's becoming increasingly challenging to rely solely on organic or app store traffic to grow your user base. In this landscape, a reliable affiliate program can be a game-changer, offering multiple advantages for your Shopify app business.
1. Overcoming the Organic Traffic Challenge
The Shopify app ecosystem is continually evolving, with approximately 70 to 100 new apps introduced every week. This surge in competition makes it increasingly difficult to secure organic traffic, even with an optimised app listing. Relying on organic growth alone may not be enough to sustain and expand your user base. Here's where a well-structured affiliate program can be your lifeline.
An affiliate program allows you to tap into an extensive network of publishers, such as agencies and freelance individuals who specialize in building Shopify stores. By leveraging their connections and expertise, you can bypass the crowded organic traffic channels and reach a more targeted audience. This strategic shift can help your app stand out in a competitive market and ensure a steady stream of new users.
2. Higher Retention and Conversion Rates
One of the key advantages of referral leads is their consistently higher 30-day retention and conversion rates. When users discover your app through referrals, they are more likely to be guided by publishers who understand their specific needs. This means that they are installing your app for a relevant use-case, increasing the likelihood of them finding value in it.
Here at Digismoothie, our data indicates that "partnership referrals" coming through PartnerJam have a trial conversion rate (merchants who survived the trial period/app installs) twice as high as the average from other sources (organic, Shopify App Store), and the retention rate is 2.8 times higher compared to other installation sources!
These statistics underscore the effectiveness of this high-quality channel in acquiring and retaining users. By nurturing these valuable connections, you can consistently benefit from their engagement and support.
3. Long-Term Partnership and Sustainability
Building an effective affiliate program may take some time and effort, especially when it comes to finding reliable publishers who will actively promote your app. However, once you establish these partnerships and maintain them, the benefits are long-lasting. By the way, we started a year ago with just 5 partners!
However, if you make your partners feel like a vital part of your success (because they are!), by involving them in the product development cycle—sharing relevant information about releases, highlighting interesting features they can utilize to bring even more value to their clients, or simply allowing them early access to the newest beta version— the snowball effect will accelerate.
Unlike PPC ads, where the results disappear when you stop running ads or deplete your budget, partnership-based referrals can continue to generate leads over time. This momentum grows as you support your publishers, offer generous commissions, and provide them with marketing materials and information about new features.
The longevity of affiliate partnerships is a significant advantage. If you treat your publishers well and work closely with them, they become an integral part of your user acquisition strategy, consistently driving new users to your app. This sustained growth ensures the continued success of your Shopify app, making affiliate marketing a reliable and sustainable choice for business expansion.
By implementing a robust affiliate program, you will discover that referral leads are more than just an alternative; they are a strategic advantage that can significantly improve your retention rate and secure your app's success.
