Set Up a Product Waitlist on Your Wix Website
TL;DR:
- Create a waitlist by setting a product variant to zero stock in Wix
- Add a 'Notify Me' button using a waitlist app from the Wix App Market
- Customers get automatic emails when products come back in stock
- Keep engagement high and capture sales you might otherwise lose
A product waitlist stops potential customers from slipping away when items are out of stock. Instead of losing them to competitors, you capture their interest and bring them back when you restock.
Here's how to set one up properly in Wix.
Configure Your Out-of-Stock Product
Start with the product that's sold out or about to sell out. Go to your Wix dashboard and find the product in your store manager.
Set the stock level to zero for the specific variant (size, colour, or style) that's unavailable. This tells Wix the item can't be purchased right now.
The product page will still be live, but customers won't see an 'Add to Cart' button. This is where your waitlist comes in.
Add the Waitlist Functionality
Head to the Wix App Market and search for waitlist apps. Popular options include Back in Stock and Notify Me apps that integrate directly with your store.
Install your chosen app and connect it to your product pages. Most apps will automatically detect out-of-stock items and add a 'Notify Me' button where the purchase button used to be.
Configure the button text and styling to match your site. Something like 'Notify Me When Available' or 'Join Waitlist' works well.
Set Up Automatic Notifications
The real power of a waitlist system is the automation. When you restock the item, the app should automatically email everyone who signed up.
Most Wix waitlist apps handle this without any manual work from you. They monitor your stock levels and trigger emails as soon as you update quantities.
Make sure the notification emails include a direct link back to the product page, so customers can buy immediately when they get the alert.
Keep Your Waitlist Engaged
Check your waitlist numbers regularly. If you have a long list for a particular product, consider ordering more stock or finding similar alternatives to offer.
Update your product information while items are out of stock. Add expected restock dates if you know them, or mention alternative products customers might like.
Some apps let you send manual updates to waitlist subscribers about delays or related products. Use this sparingly but it can help maintain interest during longer waits.
FAQs
Can I customize the 'Notify Me' button on my Wix website?
Yes, most waitlist apps let you change the button text, colours, and position to match your site design. Look for customisation options in the app settings.
Is there a way to limit waitlist sign-ups in Wix?
This depends on your chosen app. Some allow you to cap sign-ups or close waitlists after a certain number. Check the features before installing.
Will I have to manually notify customers when items are restocked in Wix?
No, good waitlist apps handle this automatically. They monitor your stock levels and send emails as soon as you update quantities in your store manager.
What happens if someone on the waitlist doesn't buy when notified?
Most apps will keep sending notifications to waitlist members until the product sells out again or you manually remove them from the list.
Jargon Buster
- Waitlist App: Software that lets customers sign up for notifications when out-of-stock products become available again
- Product Variant: Different versions of the same product, like different sizes, colours, or materials
- Wix App Market: Wix's store where you can find and install additional features for your website
- Stock Level: The number of items you have available to sell
Wrap-up
A waitlist turns the frustration of an out-of-stock product into an opportunity. Instead of losing potential customers, you capture their interest and bring them back when you can fulfil their order.
The setup in Wix is straightforward with the right app, and the automation means you don't need to manage it manually. Your customers stay engaged, and you don't miss out on sales.
Ready to improve your Wix store? Check out more ecommerce training at Pixelhaze Academy.