Why You Should Offer Buy Now, Pay Later During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and giving. It’s also a time when many individuals face financial constraints as they strive to make their loved ones’ wishes come true. For companies, the holiday season represents a significant portion of annual revenue, and finding ways to make the shopping experience more accessible and stress-free for customers can be a game-changer. This is where Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options come into play. Check out these reasons why companies should offer BNPL solutions during the holidays.

• Empowering Shoppers with Flexibility:

• Holiday shopping can be overwhelming, both emotionally and financially. Shoppers often find themselves grappling with large bills all at once, potentially leading to anxiety and overspending. BNPL options allow customers to break down their purchases into smaller, manageable installments, spreading the financial burden over several months. This financial flexibility empowers customers to shop with confidence and without the fear of straining their budgets.

• Increasing Sales and Conversion Rates:

• One of the primary goals for any company during the holiday season is to maximize sales. By offering BNPL options, businesses make it easier for customers to say “yes” to their purchases. In fact, approximately 10% of US consumers regularly use BNPL services at checkout.  When consumers know they can spread the cost of their holiday shopping, they are more likely to complete transactions. This, in turn, leads to higher conversion rates and increased sales, ultimately driving revenue growth.

• Attracting a Broader Customer Base:

• Not all holiday shoppers have the financial means to make large purchases in one go. By providing BNPL options, companies can attract budget-conscious shoppers who might have otherwise refrained from holiday shopping. This inclusive approach expands a company’s reach and taps into previously untapped markets.

• Combating Cart Abandonment:

• Cart abandonment is a significant challenge for online retailers, and during the holiday season, it can be especially frustrating. Many shoppers abandon their carts when they see the total cost of their intended purchases. BNPL options act as a solution to this problem by offering shoppers the flexibility to pay in installments, reducing cart abandonment rates and increasing the chances of completing sales.

• Gaining a Competitive Edge:

• The retail landscape is highly competitive, especially during the holidays when companies are vying for the attention of consumers. Offering BNPL options sets your business apart from the competition. It’s a value-added service that can attract new customers and keep them coming back.

• Boosting Average Order Value:

• One of the unique benefits of BNPL options is that they encourage customers to consider adding higher-priced items to their shopping carts. In fact, the average cost of the last item customers purchased using BNPL was $689.  When customers can divide their payments into smaller, more manageable portions, they may be more inclined to splurge on that special gift or treat themselves, increasing the average order value for your business.

• Fostering Trust and Loyalty:

• Companies that offer BNPL options during the holidays convey a message of understanding and support for their customers’ financial needs. This builds trust and fosters long-term loyalty, turning holiday shoppers into year-round patrons. Satisfied customers are more likely to return and continue their shopping journey with a brand they trust.

• Simplifying the Payment Process:

• Holiday shoppers often have a long list of gifts to purchase, and managing those expenses can be challenging. BNPL options simplify the payment process, allowing customers to budget effectively and manage their spending. The ease of use and transparency of BNPL solutions can lead to more repeat business from customers who appreciate the convenience.

• Reducing the Risk of Returns:

• When customers can spread out their payments, they are less likely to return items after the holiday season. This reduction in return rates can result in cost savings for businesses.

• Opening New Marketing Opportunities:

• Collaborating with BNPL providers can open up marketing opportunities and partnerships. Companies that offer these options may benefit from joint promotions and marketing initiatives that can drive additional exposure during the holiday season.

The holiday season is a crucial time for businesses, and offering Buy Now, Pay Later options can be a strategic move to boost sales, attract new customers, and build long-lasting relationships with existing ones. By providing financial flexibility and simplifying the shopping experience, companies can create a win-win scenario for themselves and their valued customers during the most magical time of the year. In an increasingly competitive market, embracing BNPL options during the holidays is a decision that can set a company apart and drive greater success.