PlayAbly Podcast: Gamifying E-commerce for the Future

PlayAbly Podcast Episode 44: The Second Purchase Problem: Why Acquisition Is Easy Compared to Retention

PlayAbly Season 3 Episode 9

You did it — Q4 crushed, customers acquired. But now what?

In this episode of the PlayAbly podcast, we explore the hidden goldmine in your ecommerce business: the second purchase. While most brands obsess over acquisition, the real profits are hiding in repeat purchases. Boosting retention by just 5% can increase profits by up to 95%. So why do so many brands still drop the ball after checkout?

We dive into the behavioral psychology behind why first-time customers rarely come back — and how you can change that. You’ll learn why points-based customer loyalty programs and VIP tiers often fall short, and what actually builds memory, habit, and emotional connection.

Discover how leading brands use ecommerce gamification and real-world triggers to turn one-time buyers into loyal fans. We’ll walk you through a practical framework any DTC brand can use to engage customers post-purchase and prime them for that all-important second sale.

🎯 This episode is a must-listen for:

  • Shopify brands struggling with retention
  • Marketers looking to level up their CRM marketing
  • Subscription businesses battling churn
  • Anyone trying to build a memorable customer journey that drives true loyalty

💡 TL;DR: Acquisition creates customers. The second purchase creates relationships.

Want to see what PlayAbly can do for you? From cool custom games to PlayAbly Gamified Rebates, we (probably) have a solution for your ecommerce shop woes. Book a meeting with the great and powerful John here.