Average order value
The average order value relates the revenue from a set of orders to the number of retained orders. Taxes, returns, cancellations, and time periods must be specified. Its evolution can result from a change in price, product range, or customer base. It does not, on its own, demonstrate an improvement due to the programme.
A concrete example
A turnover of €24,000 spread across 300 orders results in an average order value of €80. Please specify whether the amounts include taxes, returns, or fees.
A point to consider
An exceptional order can shift the average. Also consider the median and purchase frequency.
Explain the increase before valuing it
Break down the changes in price, quantity, product range purchased, and customer profile. Then compare customers with similar tenure and purchase periods. An increase in average order value coupled with a decrease in purchase frequency can leave total spending unchanged. Therefore, use the average order value along with the number of buyers, the number of orders, and the profit margin to understand the actual economic trends.
Questions to ask your team
- Is the increase due to additional purchases or a price change?
- Do exceptional orders significantly alter the average?


