What is Email Marketing? (And Why Shopify Stores Need It)

The highest-ROI marketing channel in ecommerce, explained.

Email marketing is the practice of sending promotional and relationship-building messages to subscribers by email. In ecommerce, it's one of the highest-return channels because you own the audience.

How does email marketing work?

You collect email addresses from visitors and customers, then send them targeted messages — welcome offers, promotions, product news, and automated reminders. Because subscribers opted in, they're already interested in your brand.

Why email marketing has the highest ROI

Unlike ads or social media, you don't pay per view and no algorithm limits your reach. Every message lands in an inbox you control, which is why email consistently delivers one of the strongest returns in ecommerce.

Types of email marketing

  • Newsletters — regular updates and content.
  • Promotional campaigns — sales and product launches.
  • Automations — welcome series, abandoned-cart, and post-purchase flows.

How to build an email list on Shopify

You can only email people who subscribed, so list growth is step one. The most effective tool is an email popup offering a discount in exchange for a signup. Read our email list building guide for a full walkthrough.

Email marketing tools for Shopify

Popular options include Shopify Email, Klaviyo, and Mailchimp. Pop Up Discount captures subscribers on your store and works with Shopify marketing automation and Shopify Flow to follow up automatically.

How to capture emails with popups

An email popup with a clear incentive and good timing is the fastest way to grow your list. Pair it with a welcome automation to turn subscribers into first-time buyers.

Start collecting subscribers on Shopify — install Pop Up Discount free.

Install Free on Shopify

Frequently Asked Questions

What is email marketing in simple terms?

It's sending targeted emails to people who subscribed to your store, to build relationships and drive sales.

Why is email marketing so effective?

You own the audience and pay nothing per send, so it delivers one of the highest returns of any ecommerce channel.

How do I start email marketing on Shopify?

Build a list with an email popup and incentive, then use Shopify marketing automation or your email platform to send a welcome message to new subscribers.

How do I get email subscribers?

Offer a discount or useful incentive through a well-timed email popup, and keep the signup form short.

Ready to grow your Shopify store?

Install Pop Up Discount by MITS and launch your first popup in minutes. Free plan available.