Lurking buyers that keep checking out a product but never hit the buy button. Some add the product to the cart but still don’t check out. Sound familiar? We thought so.
What about a little nudge to convert those into buyers? Let’s talk about one of those nudges — ‘last chance’ emails.
A last-chance email works like a friendly tap on the shoulder, reminding customers that it’s the best time to buy their favorite product due to an offer, deal, or discount. In this blog post, we’ll share the best ‘last chance’ email examples and templates to help you create an excellent ‘last chance’ email campaign.
Let’s dive in!
What is a Last Chance Email?
You must’ve planned abandoned cart email campaigns for your ecommerce store and wondered how a ‘last chance’ email differs from it. Imagine this — a visitor has been eying a product in your online store for a while, but they haven’t clicked the buy now or add to cart button. They’re right on the brink, but they need that final push.
That’s when you should send them a powerful, compelling message that tells them it’s the best deal they can get for a product.
‘Last chance’ emails are your chance to convert stray traffic into a successful sale. These emails are written to invoke a sense of urgency, induce FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), and, ultimately, drive conversions.
‘Last chance’ emails are sent during (or towards the end) a sale, promotion, or a time-sensitive event to remind recipients that the time is running out. They should take advantage of a particular deal (or special discount coupon). Here’s what these emails are known for:
- Urgency. These emails often use language that conveys a sense of urgency, encouraging the recipient to act quickly before time runs out.
- Clear Offer. The email clearly outlines what the recipient can gain or lose, such as a discount, a ticket to an event, or access to a product.
- Strong Call to Action. ‘Last chance’ emails typically contain a strong, clear call to action, encouraging the recipient to act immediately.
- Personalization. These emails are often personalized for the recipient, addressing them by name or referencing their past interactions with the brand.
- Time-Sensitive. These emails often include specific deadlines or countdown timers to reinforce the message’s urgency visually.
Best Last Chance Email Examples
In ecommerce, the difference between ‘almost bought it’ and ‘just bought it’ is mostly one email away. That’s where ‘last chance’ emails come in, and here are some high-converting last chance email examples to inspire your own:
Last Chance Email with Countdown Timer
A countdown timer is a nice element that invokes FOMO and urgency. Here’s an example of a ‘last chance’ emailer with a countdown timer from Threads 4 Thought:
Subject Line: Best Sellers On Sale! 24 Hours Left
The pastel-themed background and prominent discount placement are great attention-grabbing. The countdown timer at the top of the email invokes urgency on the reader’s part. The email subject line too shows that the reader has limited time (or last chance) to shop at a discount.
Key Takeaways
- Keep the countdown timer at the top of the emailer;
- Create a subject line that invokes urgency;
- Give maximum prominence to ‘last chance’ discount codes or offers.
Want to create an email with a countdown timer but don’t know how? Let Sender handle the setup while you effortlessly drag and drop:
Last Chance Email with Promo Code
A promo or discount code is an attractive lure to make shoppers on the fence check out. Here’s a curiosity-invoking ‘last chance’ email by Beauty Bay:
Subject Line: Claim your secret discount 🤫
The mention of ‘secret discount’ in the subject line invokes curiosity. The minimal design with a ‘lock’ tempts the user to see what’s in store at checkout. This is an excellent example of a great ‘last chance’ email with a mystery discount.
Key Takeaways
- Add an element of mystery or secrecy to increase response or engagement;
- Mention the promo code within the email body;
- Keep your subject lines short and relevant.
Final Hours Last Chance Email
Sending a final hours email is a nice tactic if you’ve got a promotion running already. Here’s an example by ModCloth:
Subject: 📣 FINAL HOURS – Buy More, Save More!
The email has a loud subject line that tempts users to buy more to save more. The clock element in design that mentions it’s a last-minute extension showcases how brands use ‘last chance’ as a reason to email and increase sales during promotional events. The final section gamifies the shopping experience, tempting users to buy more and more.
Key Takeaways
- Gamify the shopping experience to increase customer loyalty;
- Mix and match different offers within the last chance email;
- Add an element that invokes urgency, like a countdown timer or clock.
Last Chance Email with Holiday Theme
If you’re running holiday sales or special offers, scheduling ‘last chance’ emails for promoting sales offers is a great idea. Here’s an example of a holiday-themed ‘last chance’ email by Life is Good:
Subject Line: Our Biggest Sale: Hours Left!
The beautiful illustration with holiday-themed background instantly grabs attention. The subject line creates a sense of urgency and entices the reader to check the discount offers quickly. The prominent placement of discount offers and categorical CTAs will attract clicks.
Key Takeaways
- Add a holiday theme to your promotional campaigns;
- Create contextual CTAs that take readers directly to categories;
- Add all terms & conditions (and freebie details) to the emailer.
Last Chance Email for Potential Customers
Emailing potential customers (aka prospects) is a popular lead-nurturing marketing strategy. They probably need a little push to purchase if they’re interested already. So give it to them!
Here’s an example by Lacoste:
Subject Line: Sale last day
The prominent ‘LAST DAY’ header grabs attention instantly. The email copy also invokes curiosity and urgency. The product blocks provide a sneak peek into what to expect and entice users to click on the CTA button in a contrasting color.
Key Takeaways
- Use the email header space wisely to invoke curiosity or FOMO;
- Create compelling and exciting email copy;
- Add product blocks to showcase your collection.
Last Chance Email with Great Subject Line
Subject lines can act as a compelling hook for ‘last chance’ emailers. Have a look at the following email by Fabetics Men:
Subject Line: We can’t keep this sale open much longer 🚪
The subject line will invoke curiosity in the mind of the readers. Also, contextual emojis will help the email stand out in the inbox. The email design is peculiar, too, with a cryptic design/content and a prominent CTA button that will generate clicks.
Key Takeaways
- Use a creative design or cryptic email copy to increase the chances of clicks;
- Create a compelling subject line that creates curiosity or excitement in the minds of readers;
- Place the CTA button prominently within the email.
Last Chance Email to Announce Final Hours
Sending a final call email is like a warning to prospective customers. They can miss out on the best deals. Here’s an example:
Subject: LAST CHANCE ⏰❗ Sale Ends Tonight!
The email announces the last chance to buy products during the President’s Day sale. The creative graphic is an eye-catchy element. The designer product range at the end of the email is a great engagement driver.
Key Takeaways
- Add an attractive design element to your email;
- Create a scroll-worthy element to engage readers;
- Keep the CTA button in a contrasting tone.
Final Call Last Chance Email
Final call emails are like teasing prospective customers with an option to get a final chance. Have a look at the following email:
Subject: Final Hours: Free Shipping + Sales!
The subject line says the sale is just into its final hours, with the benefits announced upfront. The email structure is well thought out, with a prominent CTA telling customers to access all offers throughout the 4-day sale. A clever strategy indeed.
Key Takeaways
- Tease your subscribers using a descriptive email subject line;
- Add relevant CTAs and product images to the email;
- Keep the copy and layout simple.
Last Chance Email to Invoke Sense of Urgency
In the world of ecommerce, time is of the essence. Invoking a sense of urgency is an excellent tactic for planning a ‘last chance’ email campaign. Here’s an example by Ethika:
Subject Line: Your discount is about to expire
The email has ‘HURRY’ plastered everywhere – from the subject line that talks of the expiry of the discount code to the header section. The countdown timer again creates a sense of FOMO and urgency in the readers’ minds.
Key Takeaways
- Keep the basic layout simple and minimalist;
- Add elements that invoke urgency and promote action-taking;
- Don’t forget to add the discount or coupon code to the email copy.
Limited-Time Last Chance Email
Sending a limited-time offer converts better than any offer without a deadline. The perfect example of this theory is visible in limited-time ‘last chance’ email campaigns like the one below:
Subject Line: ⌛ 4 hrs left for 50% off boat shoes!
The subject line with an hourglass emoji and a 4-hour time limit will bump open rates. The email opens with an attractive offer, presented as a gift that further elevates the reader’s curiosity. The email would definitely attract clicks from shoppers who were thinking of buying (but didn’t check out).
Key Takeaways
- Add a deadline to your subject line;
- Present your offer or discount as something exclusive;
- Give your readers multiple reasons to click on the CTA button.
Last Chance Email to Gather Subscriber’s Attention
Attention is the new oil in a connected (and distracted) world. So, creating an attractive and attention-grabbing email is a challenge. Here’s a great example of a ‘last chance’ email that instantly grabs the attention:
Subject Line: Final Call: 50% off Bottoms 👖
The header has a scratch-card-like surface revealing the deals/discounts. It’s an instant attraction for the reader. The CTA button is a click-puller too. The subject line shows the subscribers that they can get the best discounts on the store products.
Key Takeaways
- Add interactive elements or CTA to the emailer;
- Lengthen the emailer to increase chances of a scroll (and engagement);
- Add a no-brainer offer on the header of the email.
Last Chance Email with Expiring Offer
An expiring offer is time-sensitive. Emailing the expiring offer aims to entice users to click the CTA quickly and drive conversions. Here’s an example of a ‘last chance’ emailer with an expiring offer:
Subject Line: 💥 FINAL HOURS TO SAVE BIG 🚀
The subject line + prominent pre-header about the final hours is a loud announcement. Subscribers should check out as soon as possible, as the offers are about to expire. The product blocks with discounted prices are also an action-inducing tactic.
Key Takeaways
- Add prominent banners and design elements showing the expiring offer;
- Add discounted product blocks throughout the emailer.
Best Last Chance Email Templates
If you’re all pumped up looking at the examples and ready to launch your first-last-chance email campaign, here are a few templates to help you. Feel free to use these templates in your email copy to see how it works.
Last Chance Email Template with Countdown Timer
Subject: 🕛Tick-tock, [Customer’s Name]! Last chance to grab your favorites
Hey [Customer’s Name],
The items you’ve been eyeing are almost out of stock.
[Product Blocks]
We’re holding them for just a few more hours. But hurry, time is running out!
[Insert Countdown Timer Here]
Don’t miss out on the chance to make them yours. Click the button below to buy now.
[Shop Now Button]
Happy Shopping!
[Your Name/Your Store’s Name]
Last Chance Email Template with Promo Code
Subject: [Customer’s Name], your exclusive promo code expires tonight 🎁
Hey [Customer’s Name],
We noticed you hadn’t used your unique promo code yet. Get up to 50% off on your purchase. But hurry – it expires at midnight.
Your Promo Code: [Personalized Promo Code]
Don’t let your savings slip away. Use your code now to enjoy your discount.
[Shop Now Button]
Cheers,
[Your Name/Your Store’s Name]
Last Chance Email Template with Social Proof
Subject: 🌟 Everyone loves it, [Customer’s Name]. Last chance to join in!
Hi [Customer’s Name],
Everyone’s raving about [Product’s Name], and the stock is flying off the shelves fast! Check out what others are saying:
[Insert Customer Testimonials Here]
Don’t miss out on owning one of our best-loved items. It’s your last chance to grab [Product’s Name]. So, check out before it’s gone.
[Shop Now Button]
All the best,
[Your Name/Your Store’s Name]
How to Write a Last Chance Email?
Writing a last-chance email is an art you need to master if you want to grow your ecommerce store revenue. You must make them so irresistible that customers can’t help but take action when they read your email. Here are a few tips for writing the perfect ‘last chance’ email:
- Personalize the Email. Start the email by addressing your customer by their name. It’s a small touch, but it can make your email feel more personal and engaging. So, instead of “Dear Customer,” go for “Hey, [Customer’s Name].”
- Create a Sense of Urgency. The essence of a ‘last chance’ email is urgency. You want to convey that the clock is ticking, and it’s now or never. Phrases like “Hurry, offer ends soon,” “Limited time only,” or “Last chance” work like a charm and can be added to the last chance email subject line.
- Make Your Offer Clear. Be clear about what’s at stake. Is it a discount? An exclusive product? Ensure that it’s right at the front and center of your email. Basically, place the spotlight on your offer. And remember, clarity is key.
- Include a Strong Call to Action. Every email needs a strong call to action. This is the part where you tell your customers exactly what you want them to do. Something like “Shop Now” or “Claim Your Offer” works great.
- Optimize for Mobile. Many of your customers will read your email on their phones, so ensure it looks good on a smaller screen. Remember, if an email is hard to read, it’s easy to ignore. So, always factor in responsiveness to optimize your email marketing strategy.
Key Takeaways
- Add ‘last chance’ email marketing campaigns to your regular plans to register more sales for your ecommerce stores;
- Personalize your last chance subject line by adding the recipient’s first name or other personal attributes;
- Always induce FOMO using your email copy or last-chance email subject lines;
- Automate these campaigns using marketing automation to be triggered before the offer expires or when only a few product units remain in stock.
Author Bio
Anmol Ratan Sachdeva is a content marketer and small business consultant who has a strong grip on topics like marketing automation, email marketing, and content marketing. He loves to write about building, improving, and growing a business.
