Subscription-Based E-commerce for India

May 22, 2025

Introduction

More than just a worldwide fad, subscription-based e-commerce is rapidly turning into a successful business strategy in India. Indian customers are enjoying the regularity and convenience of subscriptions for anything from carefully chosen beauty boxes to supermarket refills and necessities for pet care.

This blog post will discuss how to use Shopify Subscriptions to introduce a recurring revenue model that is specific to the Indian market. This guide is applicable to both established e-commerce businesses seeking to retain customers over the long term and up-and-coming direct-to-consumer brands.

What Is Subscription E-commerce?

Subscription e-commerce allows customers to receive products or services at regular intervals—weekly, monthly, or quarterly—while businesses benefit from recurring revenue, reduced churn, and higher customer lifetime value.

Popular Subscription Models:

Replenishment: Daily essentials like shaving blades or groceries.
Curation: Personalized boxes like skincare, books, or artisanal foods.
Access: Premium memberships, discounts, or early product access.

Why Shopify Subscriptions is Ideal for Indian Entrepreneurs

Features That Make Shopify Perfect for Recurring Billing in India

Shopify Subscriptions empowers sellers to automate billing cycles, customize delivery preferences, and enhance customer retention. Here’s why it works well for the Indian landscape:

Key Benefits:

Localized Payment Integration: Works with Razorpay, Paytm, and Stripe (with recurring support).
Multiple Plans: Offer tiered pricing and bundling options.
No Coding Required: Install apps like Seal Subscriptions, Recharge, or Appstle for easy setup.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Set Up Shopify Subscriptions in India

Launching Your First Subscription Product – The Easy Way

Here’s a simple breakdown of how to get started with Shopify Subscriptions:

Step 1: Choose a Subscription App

Popular choices include:

Create Subscription Plans

Define your plan types:

Frequency (e.g., weekly, monthly)
Duration (e.g., 3-month commitment)
Pricing tiers

Set Up Recurring Payments

Integrate Razorpay or Stripe for secure recurring billing. Razorpay now supports subscription models under its “Razorpay Subscriptions” product.

Add Product Options

Update product pages with subscription options using the app’s widget. Let customers toggle between one-time purchase and recurring delivery.

Launch and Market

Use SMS, WhatsApp, and email flows (via Klaviyo or Shopify Email) to promote your subscription plans.

Marketing Your Subscription Business in India

Now that your recurring model is live, focus on acquisition and retention.

Proven Marketing Tactics:

First Month Free: Offer a trial or heavily discounted first box.
Refer & Earn: Reward users for inviting friends.
Bundles: Combine related items (e.g., hair oil + shampoo + serum).

Use Indian Channels:

Leverage Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and regional influencers.
WhatsApp marketing and SMS remain effective for repeat orders.
Collaborate with Swiggy Minis or ONDC platforms for added reach.

Pricing, Compliance & Logistics in India

Launching a subscription model in India comes with operational requirements.

Things You Must Address:

GST Compliance: Raise monthly invoices and manage returns.
Shipping Flexibility: Use Indian carriers that support COD and real-time tracking.
Recurring Payments: Ensure RBI-compliant recurring mandates via Razorpay or Stripe.

Conclusion

India presents a significant opportunity for subscription e-commerce due to its growing internet penetration and convenience-driven consumer base. You may start a long-lasting company that generates repeat business, fosters customer loyalty, and grows with little work provided you have Shopify and the appropriate resources.

intertoons

Interoons aim at providing electronically intelligent and comprehensive range of digital marketing solutions that exceed customer expectations. We implement revolutionary digital marketing ideas to achieve a common as well as the aggregate growth of the organization. Long-term customer relations and extended support are maintained.