19 Affiliate Marketing Examples To Inspire Your Next Campaign

Let these affiliate marketing examples inspire your next affiliate marketing campaign and help you drive higher ROI.

Affiliate marketing is all around us. 

That Instagram post promoting a new ergonomic office space? That blog article with an embedded link to a product management tool? Those YouTube ads featuring the latest AI writing tool? 

It’s all affiliate marketing. 

And affiliate marketing is growing. Almost two-thirds (62%) of marketers in our survey say they plan to increase their budgets for this channel over the next 12 months. 

So what makes a successful affiliate marketing campaign? In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the best affiliate marketing examples to inspire your next affiliate campaign.  

Examples of Affiliate Marketing in Action 

Let’s take a look at how publishers, influencers, and creators put affiliate marketing programs into action. Here are seven varied examples that showcase the flexibility and potential of affiliate marketing (We bet you didn’t know some of these companies are affiliate marketing websites): 

1. Wirecutter

Wirecutter is a product review and recommendation site owned by The New York Times Company. It’s known for its rigorous testing and unbiased evaluations of consumer products. Unlike many review sites, Wirecutter doesn’t just skim the surface—they spend hours, sometimes even weeks, testing products in real-world scenarios to determine the absolute best options in various categories.  

From tech gadgets to home appliances, Wirecutter’s team of experts put products through their paces, often resulting in comprehensive buying guides. 

This high-quality review on “The Best Wi-Fi Extender and Signal Booster” showcases their detailed approach on their affiliate site.  

Their team didn’t just read product specifications or rely on manufacturer claims. Instead, they tested multiple Wi-Fi extenders in various home environments, measuring their range, throughput, usability, and reliability. 

They even updated the article with a disclaimer and added a review of a new product, showing their commitment to only providing their readers with the best recommendations. Supplement this with suggestions on fixing the issue before buying a product, and you have a comprehensive guide that also educates readers on the underlying issues they may be facing

2. Buzzfeed

Who hasn’t heard of Buzzfeed? It’s a global digital media powerhouse known for its diverse content that spans news, entertainment, quizzes, and more. Buzzfeed has successfully tapped into various monetization streams for its business model, one of which is affiliate marketing. 

Their shopping section, Buzzfeed Shopping, often features lists like “The Top 10 Must-Have Kitchen Gadgets” or “20 Stylish Accessories Under $20.” These articles are curated with a blend of humor, insight, and trendy flair that aligns with Buzzfeed’s unique voice.  

The products in these lists often carry affiliate tags, meaning Buzzfeed earns affiliate commissions on sales made through these links. 

This article on “28 Things That’ll Make Working From Home A True Delight In 2023” is a prime example of how Buzzfeed cleverly integrates affiliate marketing into its content.

Aimed at the growing remote work community, this landing page presents a mix of essential, novel, and quirky products designed to enhance the work-from-home experience. 

The article lists items ranging from compact treadmills and side table accessories to whimsical mini trash cans. Each recommendation is accompanied by a witty description that captures Buzzfeed’s signature style, engaging readers while guiding them toward potentially useful purchases. 

3. PCMag

PCMag is a tech media website offering insightful reviews, analyses, and recommendations on a wide array of technology products. They’re particularly celebrated for their detailed reviews that provide consumers and businesses with critical information to make informed purchasing decisions. 

One of their standout articles is “The Best Project Management Software for 2023.”  

In this comprehensive review, PCMag’s expert team evaluated various project management solutions available in the market.  

The article dives into the features, usability, integrations, and pricing of each software, giving readers an exhaustive look at what to expect. 

Using their affiliate partnerships, PCMag includes affiliate links to the reviewed products, allowing readers to directly purchase or explore further. The article strikes the right balance between providing in-depth, unbiased insights and subtle promotion through affiliate links.  

Readers looking to upgrade or invest in a project management solution for their business find this article exceptionally valuable, and PCMag earns commissions on sales made through these links.

4. NerdWallet

NerdWallet is a personal finance website that provides comprehensive financial advice, product reviews, and comparison tools. With a wide range of affiliate partnerships in the financial sector, NerdWallet earns revenue from referrals to credit card issuers, banks, insurance companies, and investment firms.  

A prime example of NerdWallet’s affiliate marketing strategy can be found in their article, “14 Best No-Fee Credit Cards in Canada for August 2023.”  

This article isn’t just about listing products and hoping for a click—it’s meticulously crafted to educate readers about what no-fee credit cards are and why they might be an excellent option for them. 

The article begins with a carefully curated list of the top 14 options available in Canada, complete with a comparison table that highlights the key features of each card.  

The comparison includes interest rates, rewards, bonuses, and other relevant criteria, allowing readers to easily weigh the different options. 

It also educates readers on what these credit cards are, explaining their benefits and drawbacks. It then presents a short FAQ section and addresses common questions about no-fee credit cards.  

This section further shows NerdWallet’s commitment to not only guide readers to potential purchases through affiliate links but to educate them fully on the subject. 

5. Stewart Gauld

Affiliate marketing isn’t just limited to content websites—influencers on social media platforms like YouTube can also leverage this revenue-generating strategy. Stewart Gauld is a prime example of how merchants can collaborate with individual content creators. 

Stewart helps entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses grow through online marketing tools, technology, and digital marketing strategies. He’s known for providing actionable insights, tutorials, and product recommendations tailored to the needs of his subscribers. 

For example, his YouTube video on the “Top 5 FREE Website Builders for Small Business [2023]” is more than just a list of tools. It’s a comprehensive guide to empower small business owners to create and manage their websites without breaking the bank.  

Stewart breaks down each website builder’s features, pros, and cons, showcasing real-life applications and ease of use. 

Alongside his insightful analysis, Stewart includes affiliate links to some of these website builders’ paid features or premium versions. He’s upfront about these affiliate links and his commitment to providing quality content and unbiased reviews fosters trust among his viewers. 

6. Belle & Bunty

Belle and Bunty are Instagram fashion influencers that have made a name for themselves in chic attire. Comprising the London-based duo Alice Shreeve and Hannah Coniam-Thompson, Belle & Bunty stands out for their blend of elegant fashion, playful sophistication, and undeniable charm. 

The pair collaborates with various fashion brands, showcasing the latest trends and collections through vibrant photos, engaging stories, and captivating reels.  

One recent collaboration saw them promoting Adidas’s famous Samba shoes. 

The creators showcased different ways to style the Adidas Samba shoes, illustrating how they can be paired with different outfits and accessories for various occasions.  

From casual weekend wear to more polished looks for an evening out, Belle & Bunty creatively demonstrated the versatility of these classic sneakers. 

6. Belle & Bunty

Belle and Bunty are Instagram fashion influencers that have made a name for themselves in chic attire. Comprising the London-based duo Alice Shreeve and Hannah Coniam-Thompson, Belle & Bunty stands out for their blend of elegant fashion, playful sophistication, and undeniable charm. 

The pair collaborates with various fashion brands, showcasing the latest trends and collections through vibrant photos, engaging stories, and captivating reels.  

One recent collaboration saw them promoting Adidas’s famous Samba shoes. 

The creators showcased different ways to style the Adidas Samba shoes, illustrating how they can be paired with different outfits and accessories for various occasions.  

From casual weekend wear to more polished looks for an evening out, Belle & Bunty creatively demonstrated the versatility of these classic sneakers. 

7. GearJunkie

GearJunkie offers in-depth reviews and recommendations for outdoor equipment and adventure gear. It’s a go-to source for outdoor enthusiasts looking for trustworthy evaluations, how-to guides, and the latest news in the industry. 

A great example of GearJunkie’s affiliate marketing approach is their review of the “Timex ‘Standard’ Watch.”  

The article covers all the essential details, including specs and pros and cons. But what sets this review apart is the personal touch. The writer shares his own experiences with the watch and describes how it feels to wear it. 

The review’s genuine tone and firsthand insights give readers a true sense of what it’s like to own the Timex ‘Standard’ Watch. By including both the positives and the negatives, the article builds trust with the readers and makes the recommendation more credible. 

8. Amazon

Are you familiar with Amazon’s affiliate program, Amazon Associates? It’s a widely recognized program where bloggers, website owners, and influencers can earn commissions by promoting Amazon’s products.  

Click a link, buy a product within 24 hours, and the Amazon affiliate earns a commission ranging from 1% to 10%. It’s that simple. With over 900,000 participants around the globe as of 2021, it’s a popular choice for many.  

The tools are user-friendly, and the tracking system is quite comprehensive, making it accessible for both newbies and experienced marketers. If you’re looking to explore affiliate marketing, Amazon’s well-established program might be a good place to start your creative juices.

9. Acorns

Acorns is an innovative finance company that offers a unique micro-investing platform. Its affiliate marketing program attracts users interested in taking control of their financial future with small investment opportunities.  

Through this program, partners can promote Acorns’ affiliate products by sharing specialized links, and in return, they receive a commission for every new account opened via their referral. The commission rate for affiliates can vary, often starting at a fixed rate per qualified lead.  

What makes Acorns’ affiliate program stand out is its focus on financial literacy and empowerment, making it appealing for finance bloggers, educators, and influencers.  

With user-friendly tracking and support, Acorns offers an exciting opportunity for those looking to connect their audience with easy-to-use investment tools.  

10. Kajabi

Kajabi is a leading platform for entrepreneurs, content creators, and educators, providing everything needed to create, market, and sell digital products and online courses. 

Their affiliate marketing program is a standout feature that encourages individuals to spread the word about Kajabi’s benefits. What’s impressive about Kajabi’s affiliate program is that it goes beyond just a one-time payment, fostering a partnership between the company and its affiliates. 

Kajabi offers clear, user-friendly dashboards and tools for tracking referrals and commissions, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned marketers. 

This alignment with education, empowerment, and entrepreneurial success makes Kajabi’s affiliate program attractive for those involved in the e-learning or online business sectors. It offers not just a revenue stream but a connection with a brand known for quality and innovation. 

With thousands of successful creators, and a platform that’s constantly evolving to meet the demands of the modern online marketplace, Kajabi’s affiliate program is more than just a way to earn extra income. It’s an invitation to be part of a community that’s shaping the future of online learning and digital entrepreneurship. 

Examples of Affiliate Marketing Success 

A quick look at the most successful affiliate campaigns can give you a better idea of what works and how to structure your affiliate marketing efforts. Here are 19 inspiring examples from brands and publishers that have achieved success with their affiliate programs. 

11. OtterBox

OtterBox is a consumer electronics company specializing in protective cases for smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices.  

Scared about dropping your phone in a pool? Otterbox has you covered.  

OtterBox partners with Commission Junction to track affiliate sales. Affiliates can earn a 10% commission when anyone makes a sale through their website. They get paid monthly, and the partner program is free to join.  

The company’s website is super easy to navigate—which also makes it super easy to promote. Active promotions, free shipping on domestic orders, and secure checkouts make customers more likely to convert. 

Affiliate marketing has also been quite transformational for OtterBox, too. In April 2020, Amazon announced large reductions in commission rates within their own affiliate program, which slashed OtterBox’s earnings. 

Gen3 turned things around for the company when we created an outreach strategy targeting select content sites for aggressive growth plans. 

The result? A 16,000% increase in revenue from CNN Underscored alone. 

These weren’t the only results, though. And OtterBox continues to benefit from its strong network of affiliates.  

12. Chicco

Chicco is an Italian baby product company that sells everything from clothing to toys, car seats. 

The Chicco affiliate program is managed with the help of Commission Junction. Participants get 4% commission payouts for each sale they refer to via their website or blog. 

Chicco’s extensive product range makes it easy to really dig in and promote the products that best resonate with their audience. Plus, the company is active on social media with new offers, so there’s always something interesting to promote. 

Gen3 worked with Chicco back in 2019 to revamp their affiliate program and boost their falling presence on Amazon. New proprietary tools that layered structure and bidding automation allowed us to manage and optimize queries in a scalable manner. 

These efforts resulted in a 1,150% increase in orders and a 954% increase in revenue per day. 

13. FreshDirect

Online food delivery service FreshDirect understands the power of affiliate marketing. The company, which serves about 21 counties in the New York tri-state area, has an impressive affiliate network. 

FreshDirect is all about getting new customers, but its geographical limitations make it difficult to reach potential customers outside their area. 

That’s why FreshDirect relies on its affiliate program—to extend its reach and tap into new markets. Gen3 partnered with the company with Augeo, a card-linking publisher that allowed cardholders to redeem cashback benefits. 

This way, FreshDirect tapped into new customers while building relationships with existing ones. This loyalty program led to a 169% YoY increase in total client sales. 

Here’s why this is important: your partners should be chosen wisely, because they represent your brand. Augeo was the right fit for FreshDirect, and their success shows that the right partner can make all the difference. 

You also want to incentivize customers with rewards they value. FreshDirect did just that and saw remarkable success.  

14. Chaves For Charity

Chavez for Charity is a little different from the previous examples, but it’s equally as inspiring. This company sells custom-made bracelets with proceeds benefiting charitable causes. 

Gen3 went all out for Chavez for Charity, helping them meet customer demand during the holiday season while maintaining brand awareness. We also lent a hand with eCommerce and web development. 

Organic SEO, social media, digital public relations, and email marketing—our focus was on a cross-channel approach that leveraged every digital touchpoint to ensure success. This strategy helped us meet the company’s goal of increasing revenue and website traffic. 

Our efforts paid off: we increased the company’s online sales by 900% during a 7-month period. 

A multi-channel approach and integrated marketing campaign were key in driving the success Chavez for Charity saw. Taking the time to craft a multi-channel approach and connect with customers beyond one channel shows that their cause is more than just words—it’s actions.  

15. Nutribullet

We all love smoothies, right? Nutribullet is perhaps one of the most well-known brands for making smoothies and other delicious concoctions. 

With competition from other smoothie makers like Vitamix, Nutribullet maintains its foothold through its affiliate program, NutriBullet ProNetwork. Partners can conduct direct sales and earn $5 with every purchase.  

When NutriBullet partnered with Gen3, our aim was to plug in NutriBullet’s link to high-traffic articles about the “best blender” and build stronger relationships with content partners through high commissions and exclusive offers. 

NutriBullet’s content marketing approach helps it drive top-of-funnel traffic and grow its following. Considering that 21% of consumers visit review websites and 34% visit popular magazines during the inspiration stage of the purchase decision-making process, content partnerships are a great way for NutriBullet to drive more sales and increase brand loyalty. 

16. Home Depot

Home Depot is one of the world’s largest and most successful home improvement stores. want to buy a refrigerator, paint your walls, or fix a leak? Home Depot has you covered. 

Home Depot’s affiliate program’s commission structure is quite unique. 

Instead of offering a fixed commission rate, Home Depot offers a tiered structure by publisher type. With Gen3’s help, they’ve customized individual publisher commissions based on their value proposition. This allows them to reward their most loyal and valuable affiliates. 

Home Depot also tracks and reports commissions with Impact Radius, a SaaS platform with a more flexible pricing structure compared to Commission Junction’s percentage-based system. The platform also centralizes all activities and accounts, allowing Home Depot to identify the most profitable posts. 

17. Paula’s Choice

Paula’s Choice offers amazing beauty products and reliable skincare advice. 

The company’s affiliate program offers a 7% commission rate and focuses on incentivizing its top performers. What makes the program so successful is a targeted, personalized approach to attracting and retaining content publishers and influencers. 

Considering that 33% of consumers turn to influencers during the research phase, it’s a powerful channel for the brand to tap into. 

Think about it: Paula’s Choice knows that each of its affiliates is different. They have different content preferences, target audiences, etc. How they communicate and pitch to each affiliate is based on that. 

This level of customization helps Paula’s Choice establish strong, long-term relationships with their affiliates and ensure they get the most out of their campaigns. 

This segmentation approach (and Gen3’s help) led to a 209% YoY increase in content partner revenue. A clear sign that Paula’s Choice knows how to get the most out of its affiliate marketing strategy.   

18. World Wide Stereo

New product launches are always tricky. You want to create the most buzz and engagement possible. 

That’s exactly what World Wide Stereo did when they launched their new line of released a pair of wireless earbuds manufactured in partnership with McLaren for premium sound quality and durability. 

For the launch, they partnered with six content partners—Men’s Journal, Digital Trends, DriveTribe, Carl Murawski, and Beastmade Reviews—who would post four sponsored content pieces and two dedicated YouTube reviews.  

WWS figured out where their target audience gets its information and who their influencers are, then used that to create a targeted campaign. It didn’t take the easy route during a product launch. 

The results? A 17% increase in click-to-conversion rates and 12X ROI—not bad for a product launch! 

By finding the right influencers to work with and targeting their content, WWS created an effective affiliate marketing campaign that drove real conversions. It goes to show that you don’t have to rely on the same old approaches to get results. 

19. Clean Origin

Clean Origin’s all about lab-grown diamonds and eco-friendly jewelry. They spread the word through their affiliate marketing program and provide affiliates with a 5% commission for each sale they generate. 

To increase brand awareness, they looked for influencers on Find Your Influence, an influencer marketplace. They focused on mom bloggers, millennials, green/organic, military, and men’s fashion verticals, hoping to engage eco-friendly-centered content or fashion blogs and influencers.  

When this didn’t yield the results they wanted, Clean Origin changed tack and shifted to partners in the lifestyle, fashion, finance, celebrity, and men’s fashion categories. 

This new strategy paid off—they saw a 72.8k lift in views and 398k lift in impressions. 

Knowing your niche and understanding who influences them is key to any successful affiliate marketing campaign. Clean Origin’s success demonstrates the importance of creating an effective influencer collaboration strategy. 

Build Your Own Campaign 

Affiliate marketing campaigns have the potential to generate a great return on investment. That said, tailoring your campaign to suit your unique goals and objectives is important. 

Do you want to create an Instagram post promoting a product? Or would you rather write an in-depth review article that speaks directly to your target audience? 

Know your goal and the platform you’ll use to reach it. Then, choose an affiliate partner that fits your brand and messaging. With these 19 inspiring examples in mind – and Gen3’s full expertise at your disposal –you can build a successful affiliate marketing campaign. 

More Blogs