Running a coworking space today goes beyond just providing desks and meeting rooms. Operators are looking for ways to increase revenue without significantly increasing overhead. One of the most effective strategies is selling additional items and services directly to members through an in-app shop. This approach turns your mobile app into a revenue-generating platform, creating convenience for members and new income streams for your business.
Ancillary revenue revenue generated beyond core membership fees, can include snacks, coffee, branded merchandise, event tickets, or specialized services. Offering these items through a digital storefront allows members to purchase products seamlessly from their phones, reducing the need for manual transactions or staff involvement.
By integrating a coworking space shop and e-commerce feature into your app, you can enhance the member experience while driving additional revenue. Members enjoy the convenience of buying what they need when they need it, and operators can increase profitability without expanding operational complexity.
Why In-App Shops Are a Game-Changer
Members expect convenience, and in-app shopping meets this expectation by making purchases immediate and frictionless. Instead of leaving the space to buy coffee, snacks, or event tickets, members can make purchases through the app and either have items delivered to their desk or pick them up from a central location. This reduces disruption to their workday while increasing their engagement with your space.
For operators, the digital shop eliminates manual cash handling and reduces administrative workload. Transactions are tracked automatically, inventory is managed in real time, and sales reporting is integrated into the app’s management system. This efficiency allows operators to scale offerings without hiring additional staff.
Types of Products and Services to Sell
The possibilities for in-app sales are broad and adaptable to your space’s community. Popular offerings include snacks, beverages, coworking merchandise such as branded mugs and t-shirts, and event tickets. Specialized services, such as printing credits, workshop access, or wellness sessions, can also be sold through the app.
Having a variety of items encourages members to explore the shop and increases the likelihood of repeat purchases. By providing options that meet daily needs and enhance the member experience, operators create a self-sustaining revenue stream that complements the core membership fees.
Selling Snacks and Beverages
Offering snacks and beverages through the app makes it easy for members to order items without leaving their desks. Orders can be fulfilled by on-site staff or through automated pick-up points, streamlining the process for both members and operators. This convenience not only improves member satisfaction but also drives consistent sales, turning everyday consumables into an additional revenue source.
Branded Merchandise
Selling branded merchandise reinforces your space’s identity while generating revenue. Members who purchase items such as mugs, notebooks, or apparel become walking ambassadors for your brand, promoting it to their networks. Offering merchandise through the app simplifies the purchase process, encourages impulse buys, and strengthens the emotional connection between members and your coworking space.
Services and Event Access
Beyond physical products, the in-app shop can sell access to services and events. Members can book workshops, wellness sessions, or premium services such as printing or locker rentals. Digital booking and payment through the app create a seamless experience, reduce administrative overhead, and ensure that offerings are fully integrated into your space’s operational workflow.
How to Set Up Your In-App Shop
Setting up an in-app shop starts with selecting the right platform that supports product listings, payment processing, and inventory management. Each item should include clear descriptions, pricing, and availability. Integrating the shop with your membership system ensures that purchases are linked to individual member accounts, enabling personalized offers, discounts, or loyalty rewards.
Promotion of your shop is also key. Highlight items in the app interface, send notifications about new products or limited-time offers, and consider bundling purchases with events or membership perks. The more visible and accessible the shop is, the more likely members will interact with it regularly.
Managing Inventory Digitally
Digital inventory management allows you to track stock levels in real time, avoiding overselling and ensuring that popular items are always available. Automated alerts can notify staff when supplies are low, while sales data helps operators predict demand and optimize ordering schedules. This efficiency ensures that the in-app shop remains a reliable source of revenue without creating additional administrative strain.
Integrating Payments Securely
Secure payment processing is critical for member trust. The app should support multiple payment methods, including credit cards and digital wallets, while encrypting sensitive data to maintain privacy. Integrated payment systems reduce errors, simplify accounting, and allow members to complete purchases quickly and confidently.
Benefits Beyond Revenue
An in-app shop is not just about sales; it enhances the overall member experience. By offering convenient access to products and services, members feel that your space anticipates their needs. This added convenience strengthens loyalty, encourages repeat visits, and positions your coworking space as modern, responsive, and community-focused.
Additionally, the shop provides valuable data on member preferences. By tracking which products or services are most popular, operators can tailor offerings, create targeted promotions, and refine their ancillary revenue strategy to maximize impact.
Enhancing Member Engagement
Members who regularly interact with your in-app shop are more engaged with your space overall. They attend events, purchase services, and explore new offerings, all through the same digital platform. This consistent interaction increases the likelihood that members will remain subscribed, strengthening retention rates and building a more connected community.
Driving Predictable Revenue
By offering products and services consistently, operators can create predictable revenue streams beyond membership fees. Seasonal promotions, bundle deals, or exclusive items further increase sales opportunities and allow operators to plan for additional income with confidence.
The Future of Coworking Ancillary Revenue
As coworking spaces evolve, ancillary revenue will become an increasingly important part of the business model. A well-executed in-app shop provides a scalable and flexible solution for monetizing products and services. By leveraging your existing app infrastructure, operators can turn everyday member interactions into profitable opportunities while enhancing the overall experience.
The key to success is integrating the shop seamlessly with your membership system, promoting it effectively, and maintaining a consistent focus on convenience, quality, and community. Done well, an in-app shop not only increases revenue but also strengthens the loyalty and satisfaction of your members.
FAQs
What is a coworking space shop and e-commerce?
A coworking space shop and e-commerce feature is an in-app platform that allows members to purchase products, services, or event access directly through the coworking app. It integrates with membership accounts and streamlines transactions.
How can an in-app shop increase revenue?
By offering snacks, merchandise, and services digitally, members are encouraged to make purchases conveniently. Regular use of the shop generates consistent ancillary revenue beyond membership fees.
Can services like workshops be sold through the app?
Yes, the app can handle booking and payment for workshops, wellness sessions, and premium services, providing a seamless experience for members and reducing administrative tasks.
How do operators manage inventory for an in-app shop?
Inventory is tracked digitally, with real-time updates on stock levels and automated alerts for restocking. This ensures items are available when members want them and prevents overselling.
Does the in-app shop improve member engagement?
Yes. The shop creates additional touchpoints for interaction, keeps members engaged with your space, and strengthens loyalty through convenience, promotions, and personalized offerings.
Conclusion
An in-app shop is a powerful tool for generating ancillary revenue while enhancing the member experience. By offering snacks, merchandise, and services directly through a coworking space shop and e-commerce platform, operators can increase income, reduce administrative burden, and keep members engaged. A well-designed digital storefront strengthens loyalty, encourages repeat interactions, and positions your coworking space as modern, convenient, and community-focused, ensuring long-term growth and member satisfaction.
