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Analytics & Measurement

Calculate a promotion’s incremental contribution

Compare campaign and holdout economics using a consistent population.

Make groups comparable

A 1,000-person campaign group produces $2,200 contribution. A comparable 1,000-person holdout produces $1,900. The difference is $300 before extra promotion costs.

Make groups comparable. Subtract the incremental cost once. Account for timing.
Key decisions covered in this article.

Subtract the incremental cost once

If the campaign adds $180 in placement fees, net estimated lift is $120. If discounts are already reflected in the group contribution, do not subtract them again.

Account for timing

Wait for returns and compare the period after the offer. A promotion can shift purchases earlier without increasing total contribution over a longer window.

Try a related tool

Find how many promotional orders you need to match normal-period contribution.

Open Promotion Break-Even