Cyber Monday rides on the back of Black Friday and Thanksgiving, and has become a significant source of annual retail sales for eCommerce stores. But amid the chaos of countless email campaigns, how do you create one that stands out?
To help you get started, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide which covers:
- Why Cyber Monday is important
- When is Cyber Monday 2024
- 15 Cyber Monday email examples
- Best practices and tips to optimize your Cyber Monday email campaigns
Why Cyber Monday Is Important
Cyber Monday and Black Friday go hand in hand, accounting for 13.6% of annual shopping during Cyber Week. In fact, statistics show that consumer spending for Cyber Monday sales in 2024 is expected to reach $11.3 billion, with the average American willing to spend $476 on Cyber Monday deals.
Here’s why Cyber Monday matters:
- Sale potential: Cyber Monday is a goldmine for businesses. It’s an opportunity for you to generate considerable revenue and boost sales.
- Customer acquisition: This event attracts new customers looking for deals. By offering tempting promotions, you can expand your business’s customer base.
- Brand awareness: Marketing is all about boosting conversions and exposing your brand to more customers. Your brand’s visibility will be enhanced through successful Cyber Monday emails with strong designs and catchy subject lines.
- Data collection: Tracking and analyzing customer behavior during Cyber Week tells you more about their spending habits and buying trends. This can be particularly helpful when planning future marketing strategies, allowing you to pivot and adapt for better conversions.
When Is Cyber Monday In 2024?
Cyber Monday starts on December 2nd, 2024 – the Monday following Thanksgiving. It’s a colossal online shopping day, equivalent to the brick-and-mortar frenzy of Black Friday.
It’s a day when online retailers roll out the metaphorical red carpet, enticing consumers with irresistible deals and jaw-dropping promotions. This creates urgency and attracts millions of shoppers eager to snag bargains from the comfort of their homes.
Having a solid Cyber Monday marketing campaign prior to this will see an uptake in your revenue, plus, it’s a nice way to move inventory before the festive Christmas period.
15 Cyber Monday Email Examples
Here is a list of some of the best Cyber Monday emails we’ve come across (in no particular order). They highlight how to capitalize on the biggest shopping holiday of the year and boost engagement with your audience. Use these to inspire your Cyber Monday email campaign.
Alternatively, you could ditch the hassle and opt for an eCommerce email marketing agency, like InboxArmy, instead. We’re passionate about creating Cyber Monday email marketing strategies that drive sales and covert.
1. Poppin
Subject line: Stack up savings.
There really is no fluff to this campaign; it gets straight down to business. Your eyes flow with the movement of the stacked office and stationery supplies, leading toward the “stack up savings” text at the top of the page. A hand breaks through the background, bringing what’s on offer to the foreground of the design composition.
The central image of supplies in various colors is visually appealing and has an element of fun, tying in well with the “Funday” discount code. The playful design is likely aimed at a younger, office-based audience.
Poppin cleverly incorporates this GIF design element with alternate-sized text that keeps readers intrigued. It’s neither boring nor bland and effectively tells the reader what the sale is about, features a unique discount code, and a strategically placed “Shop now” call to action button.
2. Surfer SEO
Subject line: Here’s 30% OFF AI packages [on top of Black Friday]
This simple text-based Cyber Monday email is very relatable thanks to the use of emojis. The compelling opening sentence asks a rhetorical question, highlighting that two deals are better than one.
This one is likely targeting a smaller niche as opposed to the wider public, aimed at Surfer SEO users interested in AI-powered content optimization who are looking for cost-saving opportunities. The chance to win back credits through a game adds an element of excitement and gamification, rewarding consumers even further during Surfer’s online shopping extravaganza.
What makes this email even better is that it’s piggybacking on the tailwinds of Black Friday, offering a further 30% discount – a clever bolt-on strategy. Clear deadlines, product offerings, and calls to action are apparent which details everything the reader needs to know to click through for online sales.
3. State Bicycle Co.
Subject line: Cyber Monday has arrived
State Bicycle Co. did a fantastic job grabbing the reader’s attention with their Cyber Week email marketing campaign. The main focus is on a $299 “Mystery bike” deal, highlighted by the large, bold headline and an image of a bicycle. The email also promotes a $100 discount on all bikes, a further 20% discount on the entire online store, and free shipping on orders over $50.
Phrases like “Cyber Monday has arrived” and “Last day!” create a sense of urgency, encouraging readers to take advantage of the limited-time deals. The email clearly outlines the main promotions and the overall design is clean and professional, enhancing the brand’s credibility.
It just goes to show that simple black-and-white designs can be just as effective as flashy, full-color graphics!
4. McAfee
Subject line: Enjoy safer Cyber Monday shopping
McAfee was quite smart with this email campaign, seeing that it targets those shopping on eCommerce stores – which the majority do on Cyber Monday.
“Ensure your safety” at the top of the page immediately grabs attention and highlights the email’s purpose. “Shop with confidence” in bold red text reinforces the focus on safety and trust, while the “Learn more” button encourages readers to seek additional information about protecting themselves from online scammers.
The “Safer shopping tips” information, with accompanying icons, provides a brief overview of potential security measures – highlighting the importance of McAfee’s Cyber sale. The inclusion of social media buttons at the bottom of the page is another smart move, guiding readers through omnichannel platforms.
5. Vision Direct
Subject line: Mega. Sale. Alert.
Vision Direct’s subject line is designed to pique the readers’ interest, effectively increasing the company’s CTRs. Upon opening the email, readers are greeted with an oversized “Cyber Monday” headline and the interactive countdown timer works well for ramping up urgency and excitement. The “cut along these lines” graphics add a playful nostalgic touch that mimics old-school coupon vouchers.
The main message is clear – readers can get 10% off contact lenses when using the “MONDAYTREAT” promo code. Plus, the “Quick, nab this deal” CTA button encourages action. I also like how they’ve cleverly positioned other eye care items that might not necessarily be on sale toward the end of the email.
6. Hootsuite
Subject line: This week only!
Hootsuite nailed this email marketing campaign. The clean, modern design against a black background immediately captures the readers’ attention. The prominent Hootsuite logo reinforces the brand’s identity, establishing trust and credibility.
This Cyber Monday email is likely aimed at marketing teams or small business owners interested in increasing their social presence across various networking platforms.
It uses a minimalist design with a strong focus on the core offer. The “Turn you and your team into social media superstars” statement effectively plays on the readers’ emotions, encouraging them to make a purchase and highlighting their product’s benefit.
The use of old-school neon lighting cleverly illustrates the hustle and bustle of 24/7 online shopping – effectively matching the urgency of Cyber Monday (and Cyber Week in general).
7. Everlane
Subject line: This isn’t a sale
Everlane was smart with this one, telling readers that “This isn’t a sale” in the subject line. This in itself already makes me want to open the email to find out more. Plus, their opening paragraph comes across as very honest, which would help boost customer trust.
The block of text explains that the company’s prices are already 50% lower than most retailers, regardless of whether it is Cyber Monday or not.
This level of transparency eliminates the need for discount codes – and “desperate promo code scavenging” – as shoppers will experience cost savings every day of the year.
Simplicity doesn’t get much better than this.
8. Magic Spoon
Subject line: How to cure a case of the Mondays…add to cart
The images used in this Cyber Monday email are visually striking and playful, capturing shoppers’ attention while conveying the brand’s message.
This campaign is likely aimed at a younger, millennial, or Gen-Z audience who appreciates humor, nostalgia, and innovative products. The image successfully positions Magic Spoon as a fun and unique solution to Monday blues, setting it apart from its competition.
Magic Spoon unexpectedly presents their product in a briefcase – not something you would see every day. The briefcase symbolizes professionalism and routine, contrasting the whimsical elements of the breakfast cereal within. Pink smoke emerges from the case, playing on the brand’s mission of recreating that childhood magic through iconic breakfast classics for adults.
This email campaign won’t be easily forgotten.
I also like their quirky use of text here, which plays on the idea that shopping with Magic Spoon could ease some sort of pain point the reader has. The direct “Add to cart” text and the “Order now” call to action immediately tells readers this is the solution they’ve been looking for on the “breakfast web”.
9. Email Tees
Subject line: The Nightmare Before Cyber Monday
We love how Email Tees copied Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas graphics. The bold black and yellow color scheme is eye-catching. It effectively combines Black Friday and Cyber Monday elements to create a unique and memorable campaign.
This email is likely aimed at a younger demographic interested in pop culture and fashion. The playful and creative design aligns with this audience, and the intriguing headline immediately makes readers want to know more and sets the tone for Cyber Week.
The CTA is also smart here, inviting the reader to set up a calendar reminder for their sale so they don’t miss out.
10. Klorane
Subject line: Cyber Monday sale
Klorane’s Cyber Monday email is simple, fresh, and to the point. They’ve incorporated high-resolution product images of hair products and lotions to draw attention and tell the subscriber what items are on sale.
The bold “20% off sitewide” text, just underneath the large “Cyber Monday sale” text, is striking and dominates the central focal point of the page.
The email also includes a discount code as well as information about free samples with every order, fast and free shipping for orders over $40, and auto-replenishment savings.
While I can’t complain about the design, it is a bit boring in terms of originality and lacks a bit of the brand’s personality. A quirky slogan or catchphrase would definitely take this campaign up a notch.
11. Herschel
Subject line: The final countdown
Herschel gets straight to the point with their Cyber Monday email. It tells the reader that this is “the final countdown” – presumably the last email of their marketing series. There is minimal text which keeps the message clear and uncomplicated.
A sliding scale of discounts (with individual discount codes) quickly tells readers what savings they can experience when making a purchase.
The combination of striking and simple works like a charm.
12. Designmodo
Subject line: Cyber Monday
Designmodo’s Cyber Monday message is clear. The bold, blue font instantly demands attention and clearly states the occasion. It creates a sense of urgency and excitement, cleverly enhanced by the “Are you late for Black Friday?” rhetorical question.
The smaller black text encourages users to buy specific products like apps or postcards, serving as a CTA.
The subject line for this one, though, lacks creativity and would struggle to stand out in a crowded inbox. Perhaps using using the “Are you late for Black Friday?” punch line could create more interest and intrigue instead.
13. Vizio
Subject line: Cyber Monday starts now!
Vizio’s Cyber Monday email marketing campaign starts with a teaser email informing readers that “Cyber Monday starts now”.
The three TV screens on the top half of the page create dimension and tell the reader exactly what products are on offer. The bold “Up to $800 off” also highlights the potential savings buyers can receive.
While I can appreciate that the color blue is associated with calmness and serenity (a clever choice amid the chaos of Cyber Monday), I would have preferred a darker background to make the TV images pop and be more prominent.
14. Tattly
Subject line: OMG, it’s the last day of our sale
We like this Tattly email design for three reasons:
- The use of “OMG” in the subject line makes it relatable.
- The bright red “30% off” sticker tells the reader exactly what discount they will get.
- The text in the subject line and the prominent “LAST DAY” create a sense of urgency for this email. In turn, readers could be quicker to take action.
The email is simple, bold, and highly effective in conveying a sense of urgency and value. It uses a minimalist design with a strong focus on the core message. Plus, the large Tattly logo at the top of the page solidifies the brand’s credibility.
All in all, it’s a well-put-together email for Cyber Monday.
15. Kate Spade
Subject line: Cyber Monday is here again…for one day only!
The image is visually appealing and effectively conveys a strong sense of urgency and value. It uses a luxurious and festive color palette with a touch of sparkle to mark this celebratory shopping day extravaganza.
This email is likely aimed at a female audience interested in fashion and luxury items. The use of golden accents with shimmery fonts perfectly aligns with this demographic.
Everything the readers need to know is in this email, from when the sale starts, what discounts are on offer, what discount code to use, and where to make a purchase. The large “70% off” takes center stage, highlighting the significant savings, and the “One day only” phrase reinforces the time-sensitive sale.
Best Practices & Tips To Optimize Your Cyber Monday Email Campaigns
Cyber Monday email marketing should definitely feature in most brands’ overall email marketing campaigns, especially those in eCommerce. Yet, creating an eye-catching Cyber Monday email design that stands out in a flooded inbox can be tricky. So how do you get started?
Here are my suggestions:
1. Start early
Don’t wait until the last minute to map out your marketing strategy.
Marketing campaigns require meticulous attention to detail and Cyber Monday emails are no different. Carve out time to plan your overall campaign, including:
- Determining your unique selling point
- Crafting engaging email copy
- Designing eye-catching graphics to lure buyers
- Deciding which email automation platform you’ll use
If you haven’t yet decided on the last point, you might be interested in our Klaviyo vs Mailchimp or ActiveCampaign vs Klaviyo comparisons.
2. Plan your Cyber Monday campaign
Here’s advice for crafting the perfect Cyber Monday campaign:
(a) Create catchy Cyber Monday subject lines
The subject line is the first thing your audience sees – it can either make or break a sale. Research shows that recipients are 33% more likely to open emails with compelling subject lines, and 64% base their decision to open an email on the subject line alone.
Mention your biggest discounts or most popular items to pique interest and increase click-through rates. Keep your cyber monday subject lines around 50 characters to avoid truncation on mobile devices.
Consider including the recipient’s name in the subject line to nurture a personal connection. You could also consider A/B testing to see which subject lines resonate best with your audience.
(b) Write compelling copy
Outline the exciting deals you’re offering but keep the copy concise and easy to digest. Use bullet points, highlight discount codes, and use high-resolution product images to intrigue the reader.
Consider including customer testimonials or product reviews to build trust, encourage conversion, and showcase your offerings in the best light. You want to bring the “wow factor”.
Focus on the benefits – not product features. Explain what value your deals offer such as cost savings that allow the reader to treat themselves. Customers love being made to feel special and that online purchases are real guilt-free pleasures.
Consider rewarding loyal customers with further discounts. These can be anything from early access promotions to free shipping. At the end of the day, you want to capitalize on these holiday sales, especially when shoppers are in the buying mood!
Include powerful trigger words in your emails like:
- Urgent
- Limited time
- Last chance
- Free shipping
- Today only
- [X]% off – generally has a higher CTRs
(c) Include interactive features
One way to spice up your Cyber Monday emails is to include interactive features or animated design elements. We’ve already mentioned using high-quality images to showcase your products in the best light, but interactive graphics like countdown timers or GIFs can seriously pack a punch.
(d) Include a clear Call to Action
Use strong phrases like “Shop now”, “Grab your deal”, or “Use discount code at checkout” to create urgency and inspire action. Design your CTA button with contrasting colors to the overall email color scheme. These should be prominent and easy to find on both desktop and mobile devices, helping readers navigate your Cyber Monday emails much more easily.
Additionally, make your content shareable so your deals get around. The more eyes on your emails, the better!
To go the extra mile, team up with reputable charities by donating a portion of your profits to these worthy causes. “Giving Tuesday” is the next day, after all, so this enhances that “feel good feeling” for both you and your customers.
3. Send Cyber Monday email series
For many businesses, Cyber Monday becomes “Cyber Week” or “Cyber Monday Extended.” So, a single Cyber Monday email likely won’t be enough. Plan a series of emails that capture the moment. Here’s how:
(a) Cyber Monday sale day
- Send Cyber Monday emails as early as possible on Monday morning.
- Send a mid-day reminder to maintain interest.
- Send “last call” emails toward the end of the day to create a final sense of urgency.
(b) Post-Cyber Monday emails
- Express your genuine gratitude and appreciation for your customer’s purchases.
- Consider offering additional incentives for future shopping.
- Suggest complementary products or recommended items based on their purchase/s.
Save time by scheduling your email campaign in advance. With InboxArmy’s email automation services, Cyber Monday marketing has never been easier!
Supercharge Your Cyber Monday Email Campaign Today!
You can approach Cyber Week in many different ways based on these Cyber Monday email examples.
Whichever Cyber Monday email template you opt for, ensure it demands attention, catches the eye, and effectively conveys your core message in as few words as possible. Whether you choose bold, contrasting colors with animated design elements or a simplified layout with various-sized typography, your email campaigns should be a visual and persuasive masterpiece.
Alternatively, let InboxArmy’s email campaign management experts take the stress off your hands. Our end-to-end service guarantees your email marketing automation is optimized for your intended audience, where every click converts.
