21 Back In Stock Email Examples & Tips to Drive Sales

Picture this: You’re scrolling through your favorite online store, eyeing that perfect pair of sunglasses you’ve been contemplating for weeks. As you finally decide to pull the trigger, you’re hit with those dreaded words: “Out of stock.”

Well, you’re not alone.

A whopping 24% of global consumers in 2023 were unable to purchase a product they wanted because it was out of stock. What’s more, in 2022, nearly 60% of online shoppers in the US felt that out-of-stock issues affected their shopping behavior.

And let me tell you, it’s not just annoying for customers – it’s a real headache for e-commerce business owners too. These stock-outs can lead to lost sales and lower customer satisfaction for e-commerce businesses. An out-of-stock product can significantly impact customer loyalty and sales.

But here’s the good news: there’s a secret weapon that smart businesses are using to turn this problem into an opportunity.

Enter the back in stock email.

Back in stock alerts are essential tools for enhancing email marketing efforts and automating communication about restocked items to increase customer engagement and drive sales.

What’s the Big Deal About Back in Stock Emails?

Back in stock emails are like a friendly tap on the shoulder, letting customers know when that item they’ve been eyeing is available again. Implementing a back in stock notification system can significantly enhance this process by allowing customers to sign up for alerts about out-of-stock products.

It’s a simple concept, but trust me, the impact can be huge.

Think about it:

• You get a second chance to make that sale.
• Your customers feel valued and remembered.
• You create a sense of urgency.
• You build trust with your customers. After all, you remembered what they wanted!

But here’s the kicker: not all back in stock emails are created equal.

Some will have your customers rushing to click “Buy Now,” while others might just end up in the trash folder.

So, how do you craft an email that’ll have your customers reaching for their wallets?

Let’s dive into some real-world examples that nailed it.

21 Back in Stock Email Examples

1. Haus: Keeping It Simple and Focused

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Haus, a trendy beverage brand, knows that sometimes less is more. Their back in stock email for a single sold-out product is a masterclass in simplicity:

• Clean and uncluttered design.
• Clear product features.
• A sprinkle of social proof with a customer review.
• Easy-to-spot CTA buttons.

What I love about this email is how it makes you feel like you’re the only customer they care about. It’s not cluttered with a bunch of other products – it’s all about that one item you wanted. And that customer review? It’s like having a friend whisper, “Trust me, it’s worth it.”

2. Patagonia: Creating Urgency with a Dash of Sustainability

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Patagonia doesn’t just sell outdoor gear; they sell a lifestyle and values. Their back in stock email for a popular jacket is a perfect example of how to balance urgency with brand messaging:

• The headline says “It’s back!” – creating immediate excitement.
• They highlight the product’s technical benefits (who doesn’t want to know their jacket can handle a surprise rainstorm?) to persuade customers.
• There’s a subtle nod to sustainability – a core Patagonia value that resonates with their eco-conscious customers.
• That little cross-sell for their repair services is like the feather on a cap

This email works because it doesn’t just say “Hey, buy this jacket.” It says, “Hey, remember that awesome jacket you wanted? It’s back, it’s amazing, and buying it aligns with your values.”

3. Sonos: The Art of the Upsell

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Now, let me tell you about Sonos. These folks know a thing or two about sound, and they’re pretty savvy with their emails too. Their back in stock email is like a greatest hits album – it’s got everything:

• A subject line that screams “Finally!” (because who hasn’t been impatiently waiting for their favorite gadget to come back?).
• Multiple product recommendations – because why stop at one when you can have a whole home audio system, right?
• Free shipping offer – because who doesn’t love a freebie?
• A 45-day free trial – talk about confidence in your product!
• And the cherry on top? Customer reviews that make you think, “Well if Sarah from Seattle loves it…”

What I like about this email is how it takes you on a journey. It starts with “Hey, that thing you wanted is back!” and ends with “Actually, have you considered upgrading your entire audio setup?” It’s like walking into a store for a pair of socks and leaving with a whole new wardrobe. Except here, you’re excited about it!

This stock email campaign is a perfect example of how to re-engage customers and boost sales by creating urgency and offering tailored recommendations.

4. Bloomscape: Bringing Plants (and Personality) to Life

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Okay, plant lovers, this one’s for you. Bloomscape’s back in stock email is like getting a message from your best friend:

• They bring back a “bestselling favorite” – because FOMO is real.
• They offer a registration form for out-of-stock products – so you can sign up for notifications when your favorite items are available again.
• There’s a care guide included – because they actually want your plants to thrive.
• Gift options are subtly promoted – perfect for when you need to apologize to your partner for turning the living room into a jungle.
• Clear visuals that make you go, “Ooh, pretty!” – because we all know we buy plants 50% for the aesthetics.

What makes this email work is how it feels like Bloomscape really gets you. They’re not just selling plants; they’re selling the idea of being that cool plant person who has their life together. And let’s be honest, isn’t that what we’re all aspiring to be?

5. Everlane: The Color Comeback

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Everlane takes a different approach with their back in stock email, and I’ve got to say, it’s pretty clever:

• Instead of just one item, they showcase a range of colors that are back.
• The layout is clean and aesthetically pleasing.
• They use the phrase “just sayin’” – which is exactly what your best friend would say when trying to convince you to buy something.

What I love about this stock notification email is its simplicity. It’s not trying too hard. It’s just saying, “Hey, remember those colors you loved? They’re back. No pressure, but… they’re here if you want them.” It’s the email equivalent of a casual shoulder shrug, and somehow, that makes you want to buy even more.

6. UGG: Simple and Plainspoken

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Fashion footwear brand “UGG” keeps it straightforward, with the oversized pic speaking for itself.

This back in stock email highlights key offerings into easily scannable sections. It talks about free shipping, the loyalty program, store locators, and giveaways. In the end, the CTA entice the reader to make a purchase. What I really like about this email is its simplicity and product focus.

7. Firebox: The art of excitement

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Alright, let’s talk about Firebox.

These guys are like that one friend who’s always bubbling with excitement about something new:

• The subject line is like they’re shouting “Guess what’s back?!.”
• They don’t just stop at one product – oh no, they’ve got a whole parade of popular items.
• There’s a Father’s Day gift section – because they know you probably forgot about that.
• And a mystery box offer – for those of us who never quite grew out of the “surprise toy” phase.

What makes this email work is its energy. It’s not just informing you about restocked items; it’s inviting you to join the excitement. It’s like walking into a party where everyone’s having a great time, and you can’t help but want to join in.

8. Yellow 108: Seasonal restocking and re-release

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Yellow 108 takes a smart approach with its back in stock email by tapping into our seasonal needs:

• They divide their restocked items into seasonal categories – because they know you’re not thinking about winter hats in July.
• The layout is clean and easy to navigate – no squinting at your phone trying to figure out what’s what.
• Each section has its own CTA – making it super easy to jump straight to what you’re interested in.

What I appreciate about this email is how thoughtful it is. It’s like Yellow 108 is saying, “We’ve done the thinking for you. Here’s what you need for now, and here’s what you might want to consider for later.” It’s not just selling products; it’s offering a seasonal wardrobe solution. Clever, right?

9. Ujji: Caffeine with a Conscience

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This email from the dietary beverage brand “Ujji” seeks to connect with its audience emotionally with a bigger mission. They aren’t just selling coffee; they’re selling a lifestyle and a cause:

• The email announces a restock while supporting a socially relevant cause.
• The design is stark and eye-catching – it practically jumps out of your inbox.
• They clearly outline how your purchase contributes to the cause.

What makes this email powerful is how it connects the product to something bigger. It’s not just saying, “Hey, buy our coffee.” It’s saying, “Hey, be part of something meaningful… oh, and get some great coffee while you’re at it.”

It’s the email equivalent of a two-for-one deal but for your conscience.

10. AllTrails: The Gift of Adventure

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AllTrails takes a clever approach with their back in stock email by tying it to gift-giving:

• They announce the return of their bestselling blanket just in time for winter – talk about perfect timing!
• The email doesn’t stop at the blanket; it suggests other gift ideas – because why buy one thing when you can buy five, right?
• The tone is friendly and outdoorsy – it’s like getting an email from that one friend who’s always trying to get you to go hiking.

What I love about this email is how it taps into the gift-giving mindset. It’s not just selling a product; it’s offering a solution to your “What do I get for the outdoor enthusiast in my life?” dilemma. And let’s be honest, we all have that one friend who’s impossible to shop for – AllTrails just made your life a whole lot easier.

11. Kauffman Mercantile: The Power of Gratitude

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Kauffman Mercantile takes a unique approach with their back in stock email, and I’ve got to say, it’s pretty refreshing:

• The email starts with a thank you – because manners matter, people!
• It’s personally signed by the owner – adding that human touch we all crave in our increasingly digital world.
• The tone is friendly and appreciative – it’s like getting a note from a shop owner who remembers your name and your favorite items.
• Clear product images and CTAs make it easy to act on that appreciation – because saying “thanks” is nice, but making it easy to buy is even nicer.

What makes this email stand out is its genuineness. In a world of automated messages and chatbots, getting a seemingly personal email from the owner feels special. It’s like the digital equivalent of a small-town shop where the owner knows everyone by name. And who doesn’t want to support that?

12. Uniqlo: Build anticipation and positivity

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Alright, let’s talk about Uniqlo. These folks know how to build anticipation like nobody’s business:

• The subject line is pure hype – it’s like they’re throwing a party and your favorite outfit is the guest of honor.
• The visuals? Absolutely pop. It’s like a mini fashion show in your inbox.
• That “GIMME” CTA button? Genius. It’s like they read my mind every time I see something I want.

What I love about this email is its energy. It’s not just saying, “Hey, this thing is back in stock.” It’s shouting, “Get ready to look amazing!”. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want that? It’s the email equivalent of your most enthusiastic friend hyping you up before a night out.

13. Experiment: The Straight Shooter

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Now, Experiment takes a different approach, and I’ve got to say, I’m here for it:

• The copy is minimal, but it packs a punch. It’s like that friend who doesn’t say much, but when they do, you listen.
• They’re not just telling you the product is back; they’re reassuring you about shipping. Because let’s face it, in the age of “where’s my package?”, that’s music to our ears.
• The design is clean and simple – no distractions, just straight to the point.

What makes this email work is its directness. In a world of flashy marketing, sometimes you just want someone to cut to the chase. The experiment is basically saying, “You wanted it. It’s here. We’ll get it to you fast.” And that’s quite refreshing.

14. Snowe: Leverage Aspirations

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Snowe’s back in stock email is like the home decor version of a motivational speech:

• They don’t just tell you the product is back; they paint a picture of the life you could have with it. It’s like they’re saying, “Don’t just buy a blanket, buy a lifestyle.”
• The color palette is soothing – it’s practically zen in email form.
• They’ve woven a whole narrative around the out-of-stock experience. It’s not just a restock; it’s a triumphant return!

What I appreciate about this email is how it taps into our aspirations. It’s not just selling home goods; it’s selling the idea of a perfect, cozy home. How many of us have dreamed of living in a home that looks like it belongs in a magazine spread?

15. Fulton: Emphasize Product Popularity

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Fulton’s approach to their back in stock email is all about confidence, and it’s contagious:

• They lead with their popularity – it’s like the email equivalent of saying, “Don’t just take our word for it; everyone else loves us too!”
• The message is clear: all sizes are available… for now.
• They’ve included social proof without being pushy about it.

What works here is how they balance confidence with urgency. They’re not begging you to buy; they’re inviting you to be part of something popular before it’s gone again.

16. Happy Happy Houseplant: Create a sense of community

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Oh, Happy Happy Houseplant, you had me at “Hey friend!” This email feels like getting a text from your plant-obsessed buddy:

• The tone is casual and happy!
• They’re not just announcing a restock; they’re inviting you to “twin” with them.
• The mention of new sizes based on customer requests show they’re listening to their customers.

What I adore about this email is how it creates a sense of community. It’s not just a transaction; it’s an invitation to join a club of plant enthusiasts. It’s the kind of email that makes you want to buy a plant and then immediately post about it on Instagram. #PlantParenthood, anyone?

17. Polaroid Originals: Reviving Nostalgia

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Polaroid Originals knows a thing or two about nostalgia and they lean into it with this email:

• They’re not just restocking a product; they’re bringing back a piece of history.
• The “Here today, gone tomorrow” messaging is pure FOMO fuel.
• They’ve included other fan favorites too.

What makes this email powerful is how it taps into our emotions. It’s not just about buying a camera; it’s about recapturing a feeling, a moment in time.

18. Juvee: The Makeover Reveal

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Juvee’s approach to their back in stock email is like the big reveal in a makeover show:

• They’re not just restocking; they’re relaunching with a whole new look.
• The cherry-themed layout is like they’ve found a way to make an email look tasty.
• Offering SMS reminders is a smart move too.

What I love about this email is the excitement it builds. It’s not just saying, “Hey, we’re back in stock.” It’s saying, “Wait until you see what we’ve done!”

19. OFFHOURS: Leverage powerful social proof

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This back in stock email from “OFFHOURS” shows how cleverly the brand combines anticipation with humor. It takes a unique approach by tapping into social media buzz:

• They reference customer inquiries on Instagram and Twitter – it’s like they’re saying, “See? Everyone’s talking about us!”
• Mentioning The New York Times feature.
• The pre-order option and clear shipping timeline show they understand the “I want it now” mentality we all have.

They’ve created a sense of being part of something bigger. It’s not just about buying a product; it’s about joining a conversation.

20. Westwell: Highlight versatility

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Westwell’s back in stock email for their Clicker Stretch Belt is a masterclass in showing off product features:

• The detailed images and descriptions are like a mini product demo in your inbox.
• Multiple CTAs give you options – because sometimes you want to dive right in, and sometimes you want to browse a bit more.
• Including a review is like having a friend whisper, “Psst, it’s really comfortable!”

What I appreciate about this email is its thoroughness. It’s like they’re anticipating every question you might have and answering it before you even ask.

21. Wolverine: The Thank You Note

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Last but not least, let’s talk about Wolverine’s approach:

• They’re not just announcing a restock; they’re thanking you for your patience with a sweet discount.
• The limited-time discount code creates urgency without being pushy.
• Showcasing additional options and free shipping can turn a single purchase into a shopping spree.

What makes this email effective is its appreciation for customer loyalty. It’s not just a transactional “It’s back, buy it now” message. It’s a “Thank you for sticking with us, here’s a little something extra” message.

With that, here are a few best practices for crafting your very own blockbuster back in stock emails.

Best Practices for Effective Back in Stock Emails

It’s now time to summarize the key best-practices for back in stock emails we have learned so far.

1. Subject Lines That Pack a Punch

Here’s a little nugget of wisdom for you: 64% of people (that’s nearly two-thirds, math fans!) decide whether to open an email based solely on the subject line. Also, 33% of users choose to open emails because of catchy subject lines.

So, how do you craft an irresistible subject line? Here are a few nuggets:

• Be clear and direct. None of this beating-around-the-bush nonsense.
• Create urgency. Think less “The product is back” and more “Quick! Before it’s gone again!”
• Get creative! Your subject line should be catchy and it should build the right expectations

Need some inspiration? Try these on for size:

• “Guess who’s back? [Product Name], that’s who!”
• “Stop the presses! [Product Name] is back in stock!”
• “It’s your lucky day – [Product Name] is here!”
• “[Product Name] is back!”
• “Breaking news: Your favorite [Product Name] has returned!”

Pro tip: You can A/B test different variations of subject lines in your back in stock email template to see what resonates best with your audience. Research also shows that doing this can drive up to 28% higher ROI.

2. Personalization: Because Nobody Likes Feeling Like “Dear Valued Customer”

Remember that time you walked into your favorite coffee shop and the barista greeted you by name and remembered your usual order? That’s what we’re aiming for with email personalization.

Here’s how to make your emails feel less “mass mail” and more “VIP invitation”:

• Use their name. “Hey, Sarah!” beats “Dear Valued Customer” any day of the week.
• Mention the specific product they were eyeing.
• Play matchmaker with product recommendations. “Since you liked X, you might also like Y.”

3. CTAs That Demand Action (Politely, Of Course)

Your call-to-action (CTA) should be impossible to ignore and leave your audience wanting more.

Quick pointers to keep in mind when crafting your CTA:

• “Shop Now” (Classic, like a good pair of jeans)
• “Grab Yours Before They’re Gone!” (Nothing like a little FOMO to get the clicks rolling)
• “See What’s Back” (For the curious cats out there)
• “Claim Your [Product] Now!” (Makes them feel special, doesn’t it?)

Remember, your CTA button should stand out. Make it pop with contrasting colors and make sure it’s easy to click.

Wrapping It Up: The Art of the Perfect Back in Stock Email

It’s been quite a journey through the world of back in stock emails! From hype-building to nostalgia-inducing, from community-creating to detail-oriented, we’ve seen it all.

Here are a few take aways to wrap it up:

1. Know Your Audience: Each of these brands speaks directly to their customers’ needs, desires, and interests. They’re not just selling products; they’re selling lifestyles, emotions, and experiences.
2. Create Urgency (Without the Pressure): It’s a delicate balance, but these emails nail it.
3. Add Value: Whether it’s styling tips, care instructions, or just a good laugh, these emails give you something extra.
4. Make It Personal: Using the customer’s name, referencing past interests, or even a personal note from the owner – it all adds up to make you feel special.
5. Tell a Story: Whether it’s about the product’s journey, the brand’s mission, or even just a seasonal narrative, storytelling keeps us engaged.
6. Keep It Visually Appealing: Let’s face it, we eat with our eyes first, and we shop with them too.
7. Make It Easy: Clear CTAs, simple design, straightforward messaging – because nobody has time to decipher a cryptic email just to buy a t-shirt.

At the end of the day, a great back in stock email is about making your customer feel deeply understood and valued. It’s not just about the product; it’s about the relationship you’re building with every click, open, and purchase.

Implementing these best practices for back in stock emails can help you boost customer engagement and skyrocket your sales.

We offer the expertise and resources needed to create incredibly effective email flows that boost your store’s revenue.

P.S. If you enjoyed this deep dive into the world of back in stock emails, why not share it with a fellow e-commerce friend? After all, sharing is caring… and it might just earn you some good karma for your next restock!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you say something back in stock?

First, implement an email pop-up form on the product page whenever an item becomes unavailable.

This way, you can easily send restock or inventory alert emails to notify customers when the item is back in stock.

When crafting these emails, it’s vital to create a sense of urgency and excitement. You can do so with catchy subject lines like:

• “[Product] is back in stock! Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity (again!)”
• “Limited restock alert! Grab it now!”
• “You asked, and we listened – Limited quantities now available!”
• “It’s back! And it brought a discount”

In the email body, clearly explain the restocked product and emphasize any special features or reasons why it previously sold out.

Ensure that you add relevant and high-quality images too, as research shows that emails with images offer an almost 10% boost in open rates.

If possible, add reviews or testimonials that showcase customer satisfaction. By using social proof, you can make your audience feel confident about the product and remind them why it was a sell-out.

You should also use a strong CTA that triggers your customers to act quickly.

2. How do you tell a customer an item is back in stock?

To inform a customer that an item is back in stock, send an email that includes the following:

• a clear (and preferably, personalized subject line)
• top-quality product image(s)
• a brief but compelling description of the product, its benefits, and why it’s popular in your store
• personalized messages
• a well-placed and powerful CTA
• social proof (reviews, user-generated content, celebrity endorsements, case studies)

3. What is the best time to send a back in stock email?

Ideally, you should send back in stock emails within 24 hours of restocking to notify customers of the product’s availability.

After the initial email, you can also follow up with a reminder email within the next two days to encourage them to make a purchase. (Note: Sending too many emails at once may appear suspicious. Instead, consider skipping the recent recipients from subsequent follow-up emails to avoid bombarding them with excessive reminders in a short period.)

Now, the exact time during the day to send this email generally depends on your audience and their behaviors.

It’s important to regularly monitor your audience’s engagement metrics over time—it can help you improve the timing of your email campaigns.

4. How can I personalize my back in stock emails?

If you want your restock emails to garner significant audience engagement, you need to ensure that they’re personalized.

A common way to do so is by adding the customer’s name in the greeting or subject line.

Also, use dynamic content—a content type that changes based on the recipient’s behavior, preferences, or demographic information—in your email campaigns.

For example, your email can refer directly to the product that interested a customer or recommend related items based on their past purchases.

Research shows that personalization using dynamic content is the top personalization tactic that email marketing teams use.