Can you run an eCommerce website on WordPress?

1. How can I add eCommerce functionality to WordPress?
2. Are there any alternatives to WooCommerce?
3. How much does it cost to add eCommerce functionality to WordPress?
4. What alternative eCommerce platforms are there if I don’t want to use WordPress?
5. Looking for a WordPress agency to take your eCommerce store to the next level?

WordPress is a highly customisable web platform that businesses love. You can use it to blog, create stunning landing pages, and, most importantly, sell products and services.

While WordPress doesn’t have built-in eCommerce features, there are plugins you can take advantage of to transform your site into an efficient and powerful eCommerce store!

Here’s how to run an eCommerce website on WordPress and how a WordPress agency like Xigen can help you make the most of your eCommerce site.

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How can I add eCommerce functionality to WordPress?

The easiest way to add eCommerce functionality to your WordPress site is through WooCommerce.

WooCommerce is a WordPress plugin that turns your WordPress site into an eCommerce store. You can set up product pages, build an online checkout, and connect a payment gateway to receive money from customers.

There are also additional plugins you can download to enhance your eCommerce store. For example, you can create a loyalty programme, sell on social media, and let customers create wish lists.

Check out our comprehensive guide to using WooCommerce.

Are there any alternatives to WooCommerce?

We think WooCommerce is the best option if you want to add eCommerce functionality to your WordPress store, as it’s aligned with WordPress and grows alongside your business.

However, there are other options if you prefer.

• Big Commerce. BigCommerce is a standalone eCommerce platform. You can use a plugin to power your WordPress eCommerce store using Big Commerce. You need a Big Commerce account to use this functionality
• Easy Digital Downloads. This plugin is specially designed for businesses wanting to sell digital products on their websites, like eBooks, software, and courses. There is a charge to use Easy Digital Downloads
• Ecwid. Ecwid is a lightweight eCommerce tool you can use to sell on any web platform, as well as social media. There is a free version with basic features, or you can pay extra for additional functionality
• Shopify. Shopify offers a ‘buy’ button you can add to your WordPress website. This functionality is similar to Big Commerce. The Shopify button costs £5 a month, and you also need to be set up on the Shopify platform
• WP eCommerce. WP eCommerce doesn’t have the functionality that WooCommerce has, but it’s easy to use and free to implement, although, like WooCommerce, you may have to pay for additional features

How much does it cost to add eCommerce functionality to WordPress?

WooCommerce is free to add to your WordPress site; you only pay when someone buys something from your store.

This cost can vary depending on the country you’re in and the payment platform your customer uses. As a rule of thumb, expect to pay a base fee of 1.5% and 25p per card transaction if you’re in the UK.

You may also need to pay for any WooCommerce extensions you use.

The other eCommerce extensions we’ve mentioned on this list have varying costs. It’s important to check the terms and conditions to make sure there aren’t any hidden costs. For example, Ecwid is free, and you don’t pay transaction fees, but you may have to pay processing fees to the payment gateway you use.

Remember, you must also pay costs for your WordPress site, including hosting, a domain name, and any themes or plugins you use.

What alternative eCommerce platforms are there if I don’t want to use WordPress?

There are two different types of eCommerce platforms – self-hosted and cloud-based.

Self-hosted eCommerce platforms are similar to WordPress in that you host them on your own server. Popular examples of self-hosted eCommerce platforms include Magento, Prestashop, and Drupal.

Cloud-based eCommerce platforms operate on a subscription basis and give you everything you need to manage your online store. Popular examples of cloud-based eCommerce platforms include Shopify, Wix, Adobe Commerce, and Squarespace.

The right choice depends on your needs, the products you sell, and your budget. It’s also essential to think about your future requirements so your eCommerce platform of choice scales with you.

Replatforming your eCommerce store: which platform should you choose?

Looking for a WordPress agency to take your eCommerce store to the next level?

While it’s possible to create an amazing online store on WordPress yourself, a specialist WordPress agency can bring you a significant return on investment.

We have several years of experience designing, building, and managing WordPress sites for businesses across a wide range of industries. Our expert team will create a stunning website that provides an exceptional user experience.

We can also migrate your products across and carry out conversion rate optimisation to ensure you get the optimal amount of sales.

Over one in three businesses use WordPress – meaning its especially important that your store stands out from the crowd. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can give you the edge over your competitors.