What Is the Scarcity Counter?

The Scarcity Counter is a visual and textual indicator shown on a product page when inventory is running low. Its purpose is to create urgency and encourage customers to make a purchase before the item goes out of stock. This feature helps increase conversion rates by leveraging scarcity psychology.

What Does It Look Like?

When activated, the Scarcity Counter shows:

• A short text message like “Only 5 left!” right below or near the product’s key information.

• A subtle animated circle that pulses or glows to draw attention, often with a small icon inside (like a stock symbol).

When Does It Appear?

The counter is only shown under the following conditions:

1. Stock is low: The remaining inventory is below a pre-set threshold (e.g., fewer than 10 units).

2. Item is available: The item must still be in stock (not sold out).

3. Correct product variant is selected: It works at both product and variant level, depending on settings.

What Is It For?

This feature helps:

• Drive urgency: Seeing limited stock encourages quicker buying decisions.

• Improve user experience: Clear, real-time info helps customers understand item availability.

• Boost sales: Low-inventory prompts can reduce cart abandonment and increase conversions.

Customization Options

The Scarcity Counter can be tailored to fit different brands and product strategies:

• Threshold: Choose the stock level at which the counter shows (e.g., under 10).

• Message format: Customize the alert text, such as “{{totalInventory}} left in stock”.

Smart Behavior

The counter is also smart about how and when it shows up:

• It reacts to navigation—disappears when users leave the page and reappears when they return.

• It works for variant-specific stock levels, so if a user changes the selected size or color, it updates accordingly.

Why It Matters

Scarcity is a powerful psychological trigger. Adding a Scarcity Counter to product pages makes limited stock visible to the customer—gently nudging them to act sooner rather than later. It’s a subtle, effective tool in a conversion-focused e-commerce strategy.