Cross-selling and upselling are sales tactics used to convince customers to purchase more. However, there are differences to consider.

Upselling, also known as suggestive selling, is the practice of convinving customers to purchase an upgraded or more expensive version of a product or service. The goal is to maximize profits and create a better experience for the customer. That experience can translate into an increase in the customer's perceived value and an increased Customer Lifetime Value (CLV)—the total contribution a customer makes to a company.

Alternatively, cross-selling is the sales tactic whereby customers are enticed to buy items related or complementary to what they plan to purchase. Cross-selling techniques include recommending, offering discounts on, and bundling related products. Like upselling, the business seeks to earn more money and increase value by satisfying consumer needs.



Upselling and cross-selling are mutually beneficial when done properly, providing maximum value to customers and increasing revenue without the recurring cost of many marketing channels.