Shopify Success Stories: From Retail to eCommerce Triumph

With over 4 million stores actively using the platform, Shopify has become one of the most popular ways for merchants to do business online. Retailers globally use Shopify to take their physical stores online and connect with customers. The site offers eCommerce solutions to all industries, including popular beauty brands like Coulourpop and Kylie Cosmetics. Owners of non-retail businesses are also leveraging Shopify to sell related merchandise online. To achieve success for your brand, use these Shopify success stories and strategies to launch a new store and sell items to customers across the globe.

10 things you should know about Shopify

Before launching a store, retailers should keep some of the following statistics in mind: 

• Shopify stores have generated $200 billion in sales (Tech Jury)
• Most Shopify stores are based in the United States (Backlinko)
• 81% of Shopify site visitors come from mobile devices (Shopify & You)
• Retail sales will grow by 4.9% in 2024 (Shopify)
• People most frequently shop for clothing online, so 2023 spending is predicted at $990 billion (NuOptima)
• Shopify offers more than 8,000 apps to make its stores more functional (NuOptima)
• The Shopify store success rate is about 10% (ReConvert)
• Shopify Product Reviews is the top app across retailers (StoreLeads)
• Shopify stands atop eCommerce with a 21% market share (BuiltWith)
• Shopify’s best-performing stores have a conversion rate of around 4% (LittleData)

Since Shopify has so many users, setting up a store and standing out from the crowd can be intimidating. Learn tips for success from these Shopify business success stories.

The Shopify success stories that redefined the retail landscape

These Shopify success stories highlight brands that defied the odds. Here’s how:

Shopify success story #1: Gymshark

The Gymshark story

Gymshark is one of the most well-known Shopify success stories. Founded in 2012, Gymshark transformed from a simple business to a global brand. Then, just 19 years old, Ben Francis was an avid gym goer who was dissatisfied with the available gym clothing options. When he started the company, he made all products by hand, sewing, screen printing, and delivering them on his own. In over a decade, Gymshark now averages 7 million monthly visitors and has amassed $343 million in sales. 

The formula for success

Part of the company’s success lies in Francis’ ability to create a community. Gymshark is popular on social media, and its YouTube channel boasts nearly half a million followers. The company moved to Shopify because it needed a platform that could handle its rapid growth.

The tools used

One of the ways Gymshark has grown is by attending fitness expos and selling items to attendees. Shopify also gave the company an in-person POS system for selling to people in person while serving online customers without website lags during high-traffic times. Gymshark also used Shopify Script to customize its checkout process and offer special perks to its most loyal customers.

What to take away

A smaller eCommerce platform may slow down with increased traffic, which can turn customers off. Gymshark tackled rapid growth by switching to Shopify. The company can sell items at trade shows and other events without slowing down its performance. 

Success story #2: Beardbrand

The Beardbrand story

Who says primping is just for women? Surely not Eric Bandholz, Founder of Beardbrand. This Austin-based company offers high-quality men’s grooming products. Launched on Shopify in 2013, Beardbrand was created to help men look chic and sophisticated even while rocking a beard. 

The formula for success

Like Gymshark, Beardbrand managed to build its brand through a highly entertaining YouTube channel that has over 1 million subscribers. The company wanted to create an immersive shopping experience online, inviting viewers to connect how they would in a Beardbrand store. 

The tools used

Like other Shopify success stories, Beardbrand was built on simplicity — a theme that carries into its online storefront. The company has a strong brand identity built around its mission to “help you be awesome—from entertaining and educational content to world-class products.”

Its site is minimalistic and easy to navigate, offering easy support and fast checkout. 

What to take away

A Shopify store should reflect a company’s mission and vision. It should be a seamless extension of the in-person shopping experience. Shopify offers multiple templates that can easily align with any retailer’s branding, making it easy for customers to recognize your brand online. 

Success story #3: Naked & Famous Denim

Shopify success stories exist all over the globe. For instance, the Canadian denim company Naked & Famous was founded by Brandon Svarc in 2008 to bring Japanese craftsmanship to the masses. Because its jeans are hand-woven on traditional machines, they offer a unique quality and sophistication. 

The formula for success

Naked & Famous Denim sets itself apart from other clothing retailers with an unparalleled breadth of knowledge about denim. Through a blog, a YouTube channel, and other social media platforms, the brand educates consumers about raw denim. Customers learn how to choose fits, style their denim, and more. 

The tools used

Shopify makes it easy to create appealing eCommerce sites, which Naked & Famous has done very well. This site is easy to navigate, as customers can easily see what makes its denim unique while navigating the shop. With eye-catching photos and social media links, they get a real feel for the brand. 

What to take away

When creating a Shopify store, use eye-catching photos and design elements. Make it easy for customers to find what they need without sacrificing style. Additionally, add a call to action on your website that makes it easy for visitors to follow you on social media. 

Success story #4: Allbirds

The Allbirds story

The fashion industry is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions. Being one of the more inspiring Shopify success stories, New Zealand-based shoe company Allbirds aims to change this by offering clothing and shoes made of sustainable materials. It has built its reputation on comfy wool sneakers and has branched out into other clothing. 

The formula for success

Tapping into a hunger for cleaner fashion, Allbirds has grown to over a billion dollars in revenue. 

After finding Shopify eCommerce success, Allbirds opened more than 20 retail locations. Before opening in-person stores, Allbirds experimented with pop-up shops in San Francisco. 

The tools used

Although initial pop-up stores proved successful, they also showed Allbirds leaders that they needed a cohesive shopping experience. Using the Shopify POS system in-store allowed the company to handle ebbs and flows in foot traffic while also integrating customer data from online shoppers who came into the store. 

What to take away

By using an in-store POS system that integrates with its eCommerce platform, Allbirds can create an omnichannel experience for customers. It also has a better sense of brand-wide shopping patterns and inventory. 

Shopify success story #5: Baking Steel

The Baking Steel story

Like other success stories on Shopify, Baking Steel is one where a passion turned into a business. Andris Lagsdin is a culinary professional who knows how to leverage baking tools to create delicious food. So he founded Baking Steel to craft and share the perfect pizza.

The formula for success

As a direct-to-consumer company with no storefront, Baking Steel used email marketing to build the brand. Using various tactics, Baking Steel was able to build a robust email list and use it to engage customers and find new ones. 

Tools used

Once Baking Steel began growing, it was determined that it needed more robust features than its initial email marketing provider offered. The company switched to a brand that integrated with Shopify to get better reporting data. Its marketers also automated a welcome series, cart abandonment emails, and post-purchase messages. 

What to take away

By switching to a tool with Shopify integration, Baking Steel was able to better leverage analytics and launch successful email marketing campaigns. Use a similar tactic to target online shoppers and become one of the many Shopify eCommerce success stories. 

Shopify success story #6: Taylor Stitch

The Taylor Stitch story

After graduating from college, the founders of Taylor Stitch wanted to start a business and eventually landed on custom tailoring. They started Taylor Stitch in 2008 to create expertly crafted custom menswear. A year later, they also opened a retail store.

The formula for success

Taylor Stitch took an old industry and brought it to a younger audience. With fresh styles and clever marketing, the company was able to make custom menswear accessible and appealing. When the retail store opened, customers could get a true omnichannel shopping experience with a place to see and feel fabrics before ordering online. 

Tools used 

Like other omnichannel retailers highlighted in these Shopify success stories, Taylor Stitch uses the Shopify POS system in its store. This allows for better inventory management and a seamless experience for customers. Anyone who can’t find an item in the store can go to the website and see the online inventory. 

What to take away

Taylor Stitch was able to build off its successes online and create a retail store that filled in the gaps, offering a tactile experience. Its founders understand the difference between appealing to online and in-person shoppers. By using best practices for merchandising in the store and online, the company appeals to both types of customers, creating a unified experience.

Shopify success story #7: Distil Union

The Distil Union story

Instead of waiting for a company to manufacture their designs, the founders of Distil Union started their own company in 2011. Funded by Kickstarter, this Shopify eCommerce success story offers a plethora of products designed to make everyday life simpler. 

The formula for success

Shopify success stories exist in multiple forms. Being designers without business backgrounds, the founders of Distil Union had no experience with eCommerce before launching their company. They use Kickstarter to crowdfund many designs, which exposes the brand to early adopters and financial backers. 

Tools used

A forward-thinking company, Distil Union uses Shopify’s Yotpo and Springbot apps to connect with customers through email and SMS. They also use Ship Station for order fulfillment. 

What to take away

With a good idea and the right digital tools, there is no reason to sit on a product. Distil Union was able to leverage its supporters on Kick Starter to build brand awareness and launch new products. The company now uses marketing insights to create new products for customers. 

Shopify Success Story #8: B&M Fabrications

The B&M Fabrications story

To enhance snow and off-roading toys, Minnesota-based B&M Fabrications creates aftermarket accessories and equipment for snowmobiles and off-road vehicles. The company’s founders were disappointed with what was on the market and wanted to bring a better selection of snowmobile gear to the masses. 

The formula for success

B&M Fabrications grew through word of mouth, selling products at industry events and building a Facebook following of over 11,000. The team initially tried operating an eCommerce website built from scratch but found themselves having to take the site down while raising money to pay a website developer. But then they switched to Shopify.

Tools used

With Shopify, the B&M Fabrications team was able to create and modify its storefront without having to code or pay top dollar for intricate website design templates. The team uses Facebook integrations, allowing social media followers to shop from social media. They also use Shippo to bill and ship products. 

What to take away

Retailers don’t need to be expert coders to launch and run an eCommerce shop. As seen in these Shopify success stories, the platform makes it easy to create and manage a responsive, customer-friendly website. 

Shopify Success Story #9: Best Self Co. 

The Best Self Co. story

Shopify success stories come in many industries. Aimed at helping people live their best lives, The Best Self Co. offers goal-oriented planners, journals, and other tools that help buyers achieve their best selves. Founders Catheryn Lavery and Allen Brouwer created the site based on a need they saw in the self-help market. 

The formula for success

The Best Self Co. offers a personalized journey to shoppers who take a quiz to connect them to the right product(s). It fills a need for self-actualization and offers practical tools for those who are ready to undergo personal development.

Tools used

Before launching their company, Lavery and Brouwer did market research to see what people wanted in a self-help tool. After their initial Kickstarter campaign, they built a following on social media, using the results to tailor new products. 

What to take away

Instead of jumping into eCommerce, take some time to learn what customers want and curate a digital presence that leverages this data. 

Shopify success story #10: Death Wish Coffee Company

 

The Death Wish Coffee Company story

Death Wish Coffee Company offers high-quality, ethically, and sustainably sourced coffee to aficionados all over the world. Customers can use the online store to buy products or subscribe to their newsletter.

The formula for success

A memorable logo and brand is one key to this Shopify eCommerce success story. The company also won a free ad during the Superbowl in 2018, which blew up its store. 

Tools used

With the infamous ad, Death Wish Coffee Company became a nationally-recognized brand overnight. Since it was already using Shopify, it was able to process a high volume of orders and is now available in stores like Target and Kroger brand supermarkets. 

What to take away

When opportunity knocks, take it. Tailor a clever pitch and show it to anyone who will listen. 

Shopify success story #11: Holo Taco

The Holo Taco story

Holo Taco is a Shopify eCommerce success story in which an influencer monetized her large social media following. Creator Cristine Rotenberg already had a successful nail art channel on YouTube. In 2019, she parlayed this into Shopify success, launching a line of holographic nail polishes her followers could use to recreate her looks. 

The formula for success

Many Shopify success stories involve opening a store and then using social media to build a brand. In this case, Rotenberg did the process in reverse, identifying a need in the market through her followers. She was able to successfully leverage her personality into a popular product. 

Tools used

Holo Taco has been able to build a following with clever popups in its store, prompting site visitors to sign up for their newsletter or take advantage of deals. With a variety of customer relationship management integrations, Shopify makes it easy for retailers to connect with those who sign up. 

What to take away

Even if you’re not an influencer, you can talk to people you know on social media to build a successful Shopify store. Poll the people in your circle to see what they would like to buy that doesn’t exist in the market. 

Shopify Success Story #12: Silk Laundry

The Silk Laundry Story 

For almost 10 years, Silk Laundry has made its impact in the Australian market, making silk clothing accessible. The brand combines quality materials with style and affordable prices so that its customers can add luxury to their everyday lives. Collaborating with a Chinese factory guarantees the craftsmanship of the silk, while the brand adds its unique aesthetic to its pieces. 

The formula for success

Using the power of co-branding and influencer marketing, Silk Laundry worked with other brands and bloggers right from the get-go. This strategic move, along with the pre-existing contacts in the fashion business, kick-started the brand into high gear. 

Tools used

Shopify is a major asset in Silk Laundry’s business operations, combined with Instagram. They are also using a variety of different apps, like VSCO cam, Foursixty, and Square Ready. 

What to take away

Believing in your product and making wise business decisions is the key takeaway in this instance. The Silk Laundry invested in the market’s need for accessible silk products and made its way to the top with the proper tools. 

Shopify Success Story #13: Blu Kicks

The Blu Kicks story 

What started as an inside joke, turned into a profitable and sustainable business with a lot of passion. Victoria and her son, Will, thought that it would be a good idea for hand-painted shoes on the beach since the alternative was dull and mundane. Their finance and design background was a great backbone and along with their environmental message they have become a stellar Shopify success story. The brand combines CSR with a great product, donating $1 for every pair sold. 

The formula for success

From word-of-mouth, the brand built a solid social media presence through Facebook, influencers, writers, and bloggers. Blu Kicks combined an offline with an online presence, since they also incorporated analog means of communication, with some old-school press ads. They also opened a pop-up store, making it the second-largest source of revenue, besides online sales. 

Tools used

With the Shopify QuickBooks online integration, Blu Kicks runs their accounting needs easily and fast while making sure to get customer feedback in the Delighted app. A good idea, a pop-up shop, and some help from trustworthy apps, always do the trick. 

What to take away

An ethical responsibility can be envisioned with the right idea. A simple project can turn into a success story with the correct implementation of different tools and software. 

Shopify Success Story #14: Angelus Direct

 

The Angelus Direct story

This is a classic story of a 108-year-old physical store entering the digital world. The grandson of the Angelus Shoe Polish took advantage of the internet and made both the online and the offline soar with digital tools. Now the online store sends over 10,000 orders per month, while business in the brick-and-mortar store doubled. 

The formula for success

At first, Angelus Direct tried to set up the online store on another platform. It was a failed and disappointing experience, but luckily the owner turned to Shopify. With some help from Instagram and YouTube personas, the brand was able to gain awareness and leverage social media to its benefit. Adding a YouTube channel to its strategy, Angelus Direct began shooting videos about arts and crafts, which lead to a huge following. 

Tools used

The brand fused different digital and physical channels and assets that brought significant change to the image of the brand. The owner took an old brick-and-mortar store and transformed it into a digital thesaurus. He used all things digital for optimal results, like social media, Google Ads, SEO, and influencer marketing, creating a unified, holistic customer experience strategy. 

What to take away

Being active on all fronts is vital for a growing business. To get a head start and overpower the competition, a good product with a solid digital and physical presence is one of the most effective ways to excel in the eCommerce space. 

Utilize the power of Shopify to unlock eCommerce success     

Shopify offers multiple tools and resources brands can use to promote their products and successfully attract customers. These retailers have built solid brands and leveraged social media and other tools to find success on Shopify. With multiple integrations, templates, and more, retailers of all sizes can use this platform to offer an omnichannel shopping experience to customers.

As people continue to shop online, Shopify can help any store scale its operations to capture these shoppers and grow beyond what they thought possible. ContactPigeon’s robust omnichannel customer engagement solution seamlessly integrates with Shopify, adding even more value to a solid eCommerce foundation. Book a 30-min omnichannel session with our trained specialists, and let’s explore the power of digital innovation together.

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