[Zeppin]

Generally this is true. Apps are for situations where the user has a higher level of engagement.

Shopping is one of those things - such as Amazon or RedBubble - but Threadless is too specific for that use case. The majority of people simply do not shop for clothing online frequently enough to justify it.

I think that problem persists even with a progressive web app - it just does not warrant the real-estate on your phone. Technically the app launcher on Android makes this cheap but I think that's where apps often go to die - out of sight, out of mind.

On iOS or the sadly near-death Windows Phone, it's just eating more space than it can justify.

I don't think this is a problem of tech or cost but a problem of viable engagement.

Threadless just doesn't need a spot on anyone's phone.