Shopify is an e-commerce platform. Retailers can use it to set up their own shop. Shopify not only enables classic online shops on websites, but also, for example, via social networks or Amazon. Shopify's shop system is cloud-based and is also suitable for beginners. If you are dissatisfied with Shopify or are still looking for the right platform, this article will teach you about alternative tools.
GDPR-compliant: Shopware
The German platform Shopware is well suited for local companies. The platform is GDPR-compliant, there is a cloud solution (hosted in the EU) and an open source solution that you have to host yourself. Thanks to the open source orientation, you have the option of programming your own plugins for Shopware. The user interface is clear and easy to use. You can first test both Shopware solutions free of charge.
The German e-commerce system Shopware is GDPR-compliant. For Wordpress users: WooCommerce
WooCommerce is a free plugin for the open source CMS WordPress. So if your website is based on WordPress anyway, this plugin is a good choice. In this way you retain all the usual WordPress freedoms and control over your website. WooCommerce has rather few basic functions, but you can expand and adapt them individually with the help of additional plugins. However, WooCommerce is not a certified product from a provider, which is why there is no official support. The large WordPress community can often help you with this. With the help of the appropriate app, you can also use WooCommerce on the move..
WooCommerce is a free plugin for the open source CMS WordPress. Feature rich: BigCommerce
With the US provider BigCommerce you get a lot of functions, such as product variants or payment methods. The themes are customizable as HTML, CSS and Javascript are integrated. You can also configure the payment process and create your own vouchers as well as provide prices, currencies and payment methods suitable for international customers. However, the many functions also make the system confusing, especially for beginners. There are no transaction fees, but you have to switch to a more expensive tariff if your annual turnover exceeds a certain limit. Try BigCommerce for free before you buy.
The BigCommerce platform offers you a wide range of functions. For creative people: Big Cartel
The Big Cartel e-commerce platform is aimed specifically at creative people - such as musicians, artists, artisans and influencers. The platform is easy to use, but unlike other solutions, it offers limited functionality. Big Cartel is therefore not an alternative for larger online stores. For very small shops, on the other hand, the platform offers an advantage: you can offer up to 5 products online for free..
The Big Cartel platform is aimed primarily at creative people who want to run a smaller shop. For individualists: PrestaShop
The open source platform PrestaShop is free. You have full control: You host the software yourself and have the option of expanding it with plugins. However, there are costs for hosting and plugins. You can get help from the PrestaShop community on the one hand. On the other hand, there is also (paid) personal support from the provider.
PrestaShop's open source system gives you many options.