Let’s face it, getting traffic to a new Shopify store can feel like shouting into the void. You’ve put in the work, the products are amazing (and sustainable!), but where are the customers?
The good news is that conscious consumers are actively looking for brands like yours. But to reach them, you need a solid marketing strategy, and that’s where we come in.
At Why Matters, we specialise in helping ethical Shopify brands get seen. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, here are 30 proven ways to promote your eco-friendly store and build a business with real impact.
Optimise for Search Engines (SEO) Ensure your site is fast, mobile-friendly, and filled with keywords that resonate with sustainability-minded shoppers. Focus on terms like “eco-friendly” “zero waste alternatives,” and “plastic-free living.”
Partner with Eco Influencers Send product samples to niche influencers with green credentials and strong followings. A shout-out from a trusted voice builds credibility and can dramatically boost traffic and conversions.
Level Up Your Content Great copy does more than inform, it builds trust. Invest in clear, benefits-driven product descriptions and blog content that educates and inspires your target audience.
Personalise Your Email Marketing Email remains one of the highest-converting marketing channels. Tailor campaigns to highlight sustainable living tips, exclusive offers, or eco-trends, and include discount codes to nudge conversions.
Harness the Power of Instagram Use reels, stories, and posts to showcase your brand values, packaging process, and customer reviews. Don’t forget to enable Instagram Shopping to turn followers into buyers.
Join Eco-Focused Facebook Groups Engage with sustainability-focused communities by contributing value, not just links. Position yourself as a helpful expert, and members will naturally explore your products.
Launch an Affiliate Programme Recruit ethical bloggers, vloggers, and influencers to promote your products in exchange for a commission. Look for partners who already speak to your ideal audience.
Test Paid Ads for Faster Results If organic traction is slow, consider targeted paid ads on Facebook, Instagram, or Google. Use interests like “zero waste,” “sustainable fashion,” or “green parenting” to reach the right crowd.
Run Facebook Ads with Purpose With billions of active users, Facebook remains a strong platform. Target eco-conscious demographics and include clear messaging about your brand’s values.
Create Buzz with Giveaways Host a social media giveaway, offer a reusable water bottle, eco-cleaning starter pack, or bundle of your bestsellers. Ask participants to tag friends, share the post, or follow your store.
Network on LinkedIn Use LinkedIn to build B2B relationships, especially if you wholesale or work with sustainable suppliers. Just steer clear of connecting with direct competitors. Join our LinkedIn group for e-commerce store owners.
Get Pinning on Pinterest Create boards that reflect your brand’s aesthetic. Use high-quality photos, and make them shoppable with product tags so users can buy in just one click.
List on Comparison Shopping Engines Sites like Google Shopping help bargain-hunters find you. Make sure your pricing is competitive and your listings highlight eco-features.
Set Up a Referral Programme Encourage word-of-mouth by rewarding customers who refer friends. Offer discounts, points, or exclusive access to new products.
Advertise on Reddit (Carefully) Target the right subreddits (e.g., r/ZeroWaste or r/EcoFriendly) with relevant ads—but ensure your products deliver. Reddit users are quick to call out greenwashing.
Use Flash Sales to Create Urgency Time-limited offers encourage quick decisions. Run them around seasonal changes or sustainability awareness dates like Earth Day.
Join Shopping Apps List your products on curated shopping apps focused on green, ethical, or handmade goods. A Shopify expert can help you find the right fit.
Share Coupon Codes Drop exclusive discounts to email subscribers and social followers. Create urgency with expiration dates or limited quantities.
Write Press Releases Craft a press release highlighting your story, mission, or new product launch—and send it to journalists who cover sustainability, startups, or retail.
Advertise in Print Media Place ads in eco-living magazines, green lifestyle newsletters, or community papers that align with your audience’s interests.
Collaborate with Other Shopify Stores Cross-promote with like-minded businesses (but not direct competitors). For example, if you sell eco-friendly cleaning supplies, partner with a zero waste kitchen brand.
Start a YouTube Channel Create how-to videos, behind-the-scenes product spotlights, or interviews. YouTube is a top search engine, tap into it with strong, searchable titles.
Host Influencer Interviews Interview green influencers and share the content via blog, email, or social. Their audience becomes yours through shared exposure.
Contribute Guest Posts Pitch guest posts to blogs or publications in the sustainability space. Make them educational and link back to your store or specific products.
Sponsor Aligned Events Sponsor local eco-markets, beach clean-ups, or virtual summits. Even a modest banner or shout-out can yield high-quality exposure.
Attend Sustainability Conferences Network in person or virtually with other green businesses, media contacts, and potential collaborators. It’s also a great way to learn and evolve your brand.
Upsell and Bundle Products Offer bundle discounts (e.g., "Zero Waste Starter Kit") or show related products during checkout. Upselling increases cart size without needing new traffic.
Use Eco Flyers for Offline Reach Print discount flyers on recycled paper and distribute them in co-ops, yoga studios, or cafés frequented by your audience.
Brand Sustainable Merchandise Give away branded items like organic cotton tote bags or bamboo utensils. They build brand awareness and serve as eco-friendly marketing tools.
Launch a Podcast Podcasts are booming. Share sustainability tips, feature guests, or talk about your founder’s journey. Publish on iTunes and promote across channels.
Final Thoughts Marketing your Shopify store doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, especially when your mission already resonates with today’s conscious consumer.
Choose a few of these strategies to start, stay consistent, and most importantly, stay authentic to your values. That’s what builds lasting brand loyalty.
Need help implementing these ideas? At Why Matters, we help ethical brands stand out and scale on Shopify. Let’s grow your store the sustainable way.