I just came back from a big conference of online-retailers where it was suggested that no promo code option should appear on the form because it makes shoppers feel like they’re missing out on a better deal.

Part of my own shopping process is to actually open another tab to retailmenot.com just before I hit purchase…

I do agree though, ppl would delay their purchase until their code arrives in their inbox. but if it’s immediate, it shouldn’t be a problem. i guess the ideal situation would be once you’ve successfully subscribed to the mailing list, a promo code appears in the box.

Regardless, I like the concept.

A good starter would be to have a checkbox on the dark blue popup so the shopper can sign up during checkout:

“Get a free introductory XYZ and get regular promotions by email.
[x] Yes, I want to get promotions by email.”

If the visitor checks the box then a promo code gets written into the field.

Like Jesper above I don’t like promo codes – there are much better ways of giving special offers by email. They can, of course, help with newspaper deals or radio/TV ads.

A newsletter signup is a great thing, but a sale is better. Do not write about the discount codes directly, then you will disturb them in the flow and let them wait until they are receiving the e-mail.

You could alternatively give the discount right away if they are signing up – this would be a much better feature! In general I don’t like promotional codes in a checkout progress – there are better solutions.