Marketing Economics glossary

What Is Average Order Value (AOV)?

Definition

Average order value is the average revenue generated by each completed order during a defined period.

How Average Order Value (AOV) Works

AOV equals total order revenue divided by number of orders.

A Simple Example

If 200 orders generate $100,000 in revenue, average order value is $500.

Why Average Order Value (AOV) Matters

AOV helps explain revenue changes and informs acquisition limits, merchandising and promotion strategy.

Common Misreading

A higher AOV is not automatically more profitable. Discounts, product mix, shipping and margin can increase revenue per order while reducing contribution.