Sales · business glossary
What is Cross-selling?
By Shivam Bhandari · Reviewed 31 October 2026 · How we write
definition
Encouraging a customer to buy an additional, complementary product alongside what they were already purchasing.
Cross-selling explained
Cross-selling offers related products alongside what a customer is buying.
example
Suggesting a phone cover and screen guard with a new phone.
why it matters
It increases basket size and helps customers get a complete solution.
common mistake
Offering too many unrelated add-ons, which overwhelms buyers.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cross-selling?
Encouraging a customer to buy an additional, complementary product alongside what they were already purchasing. Cross-selling offers related products alongside what a customer is buying.
Why does Cross-selling matter?
It increases basket size and helps customers get a complete solution.
What is a common mistake with Cross-selling?
Offering too many unrelated add-ons, which overwhelms buyers.
Related terms
Upselling
Encouraging a customer to buy a more expensive or upgraded version of what they were already planning to purchase.
LTV (customer lifetime value)
The total profit a business can expect to earn from one customer over the entire span of their relationship, not just their first purchase.
Market segmentation
Dividing a broad market into smaller groups of customers who share similar needs, so messaging and offers can be tailored to each.