Vilfredo Pareto's 80/20 Rule in e-Commerce [Infographic]

Merchants, who are running an online business, have to handle a lot of complicated processes. It is not about technical support or leads generating, but organizing of all the components is the key to success. Due to this fact, store owners usually suffer from a lack of time to cope with everything. But, back in 1906, Vilfredo Pareto presented his principle that remains highly relevant today.

The key reference of this rule appears to be a statement that 80% of revenue is generated by 20% of customers. Sounds ridiculous? But it is absolute truth, and large companies keep that principle in mind while planning the future activities. Simply take a look at your active clients and analyze how they affect the total revenue. You will probably notice that around 20% of customers have made 80% of the total profit. Surprise! That is your own approval of Pareto’s rule.

The most impressive fact is that every business has the same or pretty similar structure. It is the reason why e-merchants, who try to optimize their management, use this principle all the time. That rule helps for sure, if you are looking forward to growing higher and faster than others.

For the best convenience, check the infographic, originally created by a leading e-commerce solution provider, showing different examples of 80/20 rule in e-Commerce.

As you can see, there is no need to bother about more than a half of your business processes. Try to use Pareto’s rule and reorganize business activities in order to be on a rise.

Monthly Update – November 2025

In November 2025, as e-commerce gears up for the peak holiday shopping season, applying the Pareto Principle becomes even more critical. Retailers should strategically focus 80% of their marketing and customer service efforts on the 20% of customer segments or products that are expected to generate the most significant revenue during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the entire holiday period. This means identifying your most loyal customers and high-converting product categories and tailoring promotions and support to maximize their impact. For instance, personalized offers for repeat customers or expedited shipping options for top-selling items can yield substantial returns. Don't spread your resources too thinly across less profitable segments. Instead, concentrate on optimizing the channels and customer interactions that have historically driven the bulk of your sales. This targeted approach not only boosts efficiency but also ensures a higher return on investment during this crucial sales window. For those considering scaling or updating their platforms for improved performance during high-traffic events, remember that a smooth migration of your core product data and customer histories is paramount. Focusing on the 'vital few' during your migration planning can prevent disruptions and ensure your most valuable assets are perfectly preserved.

For more details, explore our FAQ section or schedule a call with a migration expert.