E-commerce brands quickly took notice when Netflix’s Squid Game became a global sensation. The series captivated millions with its gripping storytelling, iconic visuals, and deep emotional resonance, providing a unique opportunity for businesses to engage customers in innovative ways. Companies like Duolingo cleverly integrated Squid Game references into their e-commerce marketing campaigns, using humor and relatability to boost customer engagement. Duolingo’s witty memes and social media posts not only hooked audiences but also led to increased app downloads. Similarly, other forward-thinking brands leveraged the show’s themes to build suspense, evoke emotions, and create memorable marketing strategies. These creative approaches transformed customer engagement into tangible revenue, proving that Squid Game holds valuable lessons for businesses—especially in the e-commerce industry.
This blog delves into actionable lessons inspired by Squid Game to help e-commerce businesses increase customer engagement and reduce cart abandonment, ensuring their strategies resonate with modern consumers.
1. Tease Your Audience with Suspenseful Storytelling
One of the reasons Squid Game gained such massive popularity was its mysterious plot and suspenseful teasers. The series’ marketing campaigns left audiences intrigued, with just enough information to spark curiosity without revealing too much.
Marketing Takeaway for E-commerce: E-commerce brands can adopt similar tactics by creating suspense-driven campaigns. For example, launch teaser ads for upcoming sales with cryptic messages like “Are you ready to play?” paired with bold visuals. Use email marketing to send “invitation-only” promotions, creating an air of exclusivity. Brands like Myntra have successfully used countdowns and surprise offers to hook their audience, proving that a little mystery can go a long way.
Incorporating suspense into your campaigns can increase click-through rates and encourage customers to explore your offerings. As an e-commerce marketing agency would advise, intrigue keeps customers engaged and curious, making them more likely to complete their purchase journey.

2. Understand Your Audience’s Emotional Triggers
Squid Game resonated universally by exploring themes of debt, survival, and human nature—issues that many viewers could relate to. By addressing these deep emotional pain points, the show forged a powerful connection with its audience.
Marketing Takeaway for E-commerce: E-commerce businesses can learn from this by understanding their customers’ emotions and needs. Use customer data to identify pain points—whether it’s the frustration of high shipping costs or the desire for sustainable products—and craft campaigns that speak to these concerns.
For instance, Zepto’s account management services often highlight convenience and speed, addressing the modern consumer’s need for quick solutions. Similarly, brands on platforms like Amazon can use the Amazon Service Provider Network to optimize their listings, ensuring they cater to specific customer preferences. Customizing your campaigns to align with your audience’s desires will make them feel understood, increasing engagement and reducing cart abandonment.
3. Simplicity Sells: Keep Your Message Clear
The games in Squid Game were simple yet memorable—from “Red Light, Green Light” to the shapes (circle, triangle, square) on the guards’ masks. This simplicity made the series easy to understand and visually striking.
Marketing Takeaway for E-commerce: In e-commerce, clarity is key. Overcomplicated messages or cluttered website designs can drive customers away. Instead, focus on delivering your message with simplicity and impact. Use bold, clean visuals that align with your brand identity. For example, Flipkart, as a leading e-commerce marketplace marketing company, ensures its campaigns and user interfaces are simple and intuitive, making shopping a breeze for customers.
Highlighting clear calls to action (e.g., “Buy Now,” “Limited Offer”) and maintaining easy navigation across your site can drastically improve customer experience. Collaborate with an experienced e-commerce agency near you to streamline your design and messaging, ensuring customers remain engaged from landing page to checkout.

4. Leverage Scarcity and FOMO to Drive Action
Squid Game created tension and urgency with its high-stakes games. Viewers were constantly reminded of the limited time and resources, which kept them on the edge of their seats.
Marketing Takeaway for E-commerce: Scarcity and urgency are powerful motivators in e-commerce. Use these principles to drive conversions by incorporating limited-time offers, countdown timers, or exclusive deals. For example, highlight phrases like “Only 3 left in stock!” or “Sale ends in 24 hours.” Gamify your campaigns by introducing challenges or rewards for completing purchases within a set timeframe.
Amazon account management services often employ these strategies to boost sales on the platform. Similarly, leveraging platforms like Flipkart and Myntra’s ad agency expertise can help you craft campaigns that amplify the urgency factor. This approach not only engages customers but also reduces cart abandonment by encouraging immediate action.
Conclusion: Turning Engagement into Success with Akoi
The lessons from Squid Game demonstrate the power of creative, emotionally resonant, and visually compelling marketing strategies. By teasing your audience, addressing their emotional needs, simplifying your message, and leveraging scarcity, e-commerce businesses can significantly boost customer engagement and reduce cart abandonment. Whether you’re a small e-commerce marketplace marketing agency or a global brand, these strategies can be tailored to meet your goals.
Ready to take your e-commerce marketing to the next level? At Akoi, we specialize in offering comprehensive ecommerce marketing services, from amazon service provider network solutions to Flipkart service provider expertise. Let us help you craft winning strategies that engage your customers and drive results. Contact us today and let’s play to win!