Let’s be honest:
You didn’t spend the last three months redesigning your Shopify theme.
And that’s okay.
But here’s the good news: You don’t need a full redesign to win BFCM.
Sometimes, all it takes is one or two smart theme sections in the right place to turn window shoppers into buyers.
Over the past few BFCM seasons, I’ve tested dozens of layout tweaks with my own stores and clients. And this year? I’ve zeroed in on 6 high-impact, easy-to-add theme sections that consistently lift conversions — even when added days before the sale.
Best part? Most of these can be added without touching code (thanks, Shopify 2.0 themes!).
1. The “Deal Countdown” Hero Section
(Not just a banner — a full-screen urgency engine)
Forget tiny pop-ups. This section takes over your homepage with:
- A bold headline (“Doorbusters Live!”)
- A live countdown timer (e.g., “Ends in 12:44:21”)
- Your top offer front and center
Why it works: It creates instant context. Visitors instantly know: “Oh, this is a sale site — and time is running out.”
👉 How to add it:
If you’re using a Shopify 2.0 theme (like Dawn, Craft, or Impulse), go to Online Store → Themes → Customize → Add section → “Countdown” or “Promo Banner”.
No app needed — just set your end time and discount code.
2. “BFCM Bestsellers” Grid
(Social proof on steroids)
Instead of showing your entire catalog, curate a tight grid of 5–8 top-selling products with labels like:
- “🔥 214 bought today”
- “BFCM Staff Pick”
- “Back in stock — selling fast!”
Real talk: During high-traffic events, people crave direction. This section says, “These are the safe, popular choices — grab one before it’s gone.”
💡 Pro tip: Link this section to a “BFCM Collection” so you can easily update it later.
3. The “Free Shipping Threshold” Bar
(Sticky. Always visible. Always converting.)
Add a slim, sticky bar at the top (or bottom) of your screen that says:
“Spend $25 more to get FREE shipping!”
As users add items to cart, this bar updates in real time.
It’s subtle, but powerfully persuasive — especially on mobile.
🛠️ How: Use a free app like Free Shipping Bar or, if your theme supports it (e.g., Prestige, Symmetry), enable it natively under Theme Settings → Cart.
4. “Bundle & Save” Showcase
(Increase AOV without feeling “salesy”)
Example:
“Complete the Look: Buy the Dress + Earrings + Clutch = Save 20%”
This isn’t just cross-selling — it’s curating value. And during BFCM, shoppers are primed to spend more if they feel they’re getting a deal.
✅ Works great for:
- Skincare sets
- Outfit bundles
- Tech + accessory combos
Add this as a “Product Recommendations” section below your main product, or create a dedicated “Bundles” page linked from your menu.
5. “Last Chance” Exit-Intent Popup (as a Theme Section Alternative)
Okay, technically not a theme section — but hear me out.
Many modern Shopify themes now support “announcement bars” or “modal popups” as native sections.
Use one to trigger a last-minute offer when someone moves to leave:
“Wait! Get 10% off your first order — just for today.”
But here’s the twist: Only show it during BFCM hours.
(Use an app like Privy or OptiMonk with scheduling, or code a simple time-based rule if you’re comfortable.)
6. The “Post-Purchase Upsell” Section (on Order Status Page)
Yes — your “Thank You” page can have a theme section too.
Shopify now lets you customize the order status page with dynamic content.
Add a section that shows:
- Related products
- A limited-time “next order” discount (“Use BFCMAGAIN for 15% off next week!”)
- A referral CTA (“Give $10, Get $10”)
This is pure profit — your customer has already paid, but their wallet is still open.
🔧 How: In Settings → Checkout → Order status page, click “Customize” and add a “Featured products” or “Promo” block.
🎯 Final Tip: Less Is More
Don’t cram all six sections onto your homepage.
Instead, strategically place 2–3 where they’ll have the most impact:
- Homepage: Countdown + Bestsellers
- Product page: Bundle + Shipping bar
- Post-purchase: Thank-you upsell
Remember: BFCM shoppers are scanning, not reading. Make your message instantly clear, your offer irresistible, and your next step obvious.