Newspack lets you share a direct link inviting readers to upgrade (or purchase a subscription) — all tied to your primary subscription product. This feature makes it easy to promote higher-tier plans or convert non-subscribers, without needing custom code or manual configuration.

What the primary subscription product does

The primary subscription product determines which subscription group or tier readers see when they click a subscription upgrade link. It can be a Grouped Product or a Variable Subscription, allowing you to manage multiple pricing tiers (e.g., Monthly, Annual, Premium) under one primary product.

Once configured, Newspack automatically generates a shareable URL that adapts to each reader’s current status:

  • Non-subscribers will see a purchase prompt for the selected product.
  • Active subscribers will see an upgrade prompt to switch to a higher tier.

A note on Grouped Product vs Variable Subscription:

  • Grouped Product: A collection of multiple subscription products (for example, “Supporter,” “Patron,” and “Premium”). Readers see each tier + their respective payment frequencies, if they have them (e.g., monthly vs. yearly), as a separate options in the modal when upgrading.
  • Variable Subscription: One single variable product that offers various payment frequencies (e.g., monthly vs. yearly). Readers see only this product and its payment frequencies in the modal.

How to set it up

  1. Go to Audience → Subscriptions.
  2. In the Subscription Upgrade Link section, select your Grouped Product or Variable Subscription that represents your main subscription tiers.
    • Donation products will not appear in this list.
  3. Your selection will be automatically saved and the shareable URL generated.

You can update or reset this selection at any time.

Once you’ve selected your primary subscription product, Newspack generates a unique URL like this: https://example.com?upgrade-subscription=1

You can share this link:

  • In email campaigns
  • On your website or paywall messages
  • In thank-you or renewal notices
  • In automated win-back or upgrade workflows

When a reader clicks the link:

  • If they’re not a subscriber, they’ll be prompted to purchase the product.
  • If they’re already a subscriber, they’ll be prompted to upgrade to the next available tier.

What the reader would see when purchasing a new subscription:

What the reader would see when upgrading an existing subscription:

Tips for best results

  • Ensure your primary product includes all active tiers you want readers to upgrade between.
  • Use clear, value-focused messaging around your upgrade links — for example, “Upgrade to Premium for full access.”
  • Test the link while logged out (and logged in) to see the difference between purchase and upgrade flows.
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