Choosing an online-shop platform is a long-term decision. Here is how the main options compare for businesses selling in Germany and Europe.
Shopify
- Hosted SaaS: no server maintenance
- Very easy to use, fast to launch
- Large app ecosystem, strong checkout
- Monthly fees plus transaction or app costs
- Some limits for complex B2B logic
Best for: D2C brands and small to mid-sized shops that want to sell quickly.
WooCommerce
- Free plugin for WordPress, open source
- Full control and flexibility
- Combines shop and content marketing in one system
- You are responsible for hosting, updates and security
Best for: SMEs with WordPress websites and moderate product catalogues.
Shopware
- German e-commerce platform, popular in DACH
- Strong in B2B features, storytelling and multi-channel
- Community and commercial editions
- More development effort than Shopify
Best for: growing and larger shops, B2B, businesses that want a German vendor.
Custom shop
- Built on frameworks for unique business models (marketplaces, configurators, subscriptions)
- Maximum flexibility, higher initial effort
Requirements in Germany
Regardless of platform, plan for:
- Legal pages: imprint (Impressum), privacy policy, terms, withdrawal policy
- Correct price display incl. VAT and shipping costs
- "Order with obligation to pay" checkout button
- Payment methods Germans expect: PayPal, invoice (e.g. via Klarna), SEPA direct debit, credit card
- Shipping integrations (DHL, DPD, Hermes) and returns
- GDPR-compliant tracking and newsletter double opt-in
Integrations
ERP or inventory systems, accounting (for example DATEV exports), marketplaces (Amazon, eBay), product information management and email marketing should be planned early.
How we help
We analyse catalogue size, B2B/B2C needs, budget and growth plans, recommend the platform and build a shop that is legally compliant, fast and easy to manage.
Planning a project like this? Our AI project assistant asks the right questions for your field and turns your answers into a clear brief – then our team near Munich sends a free, non-binding quote within 24 hours on business days. Start now or read the complete Web Development guide.