Choosing the right eCommerce platform isn’t just a technical decision, it’s a strategic move that will define your B2B growth trajectory for years to come. For mid-market companies evaluating their options, the choice between Shopware and Shopify represents a fundamental fork in the road: comprehensive customization versus streamlined scalability.
This head-to-head comparison of Shopware vs. Shopify will help you make an informed decision about which platform to choose, while exploring how the November 18th Shopware webinar can enhance your understanding of both platforms’ capabilities.
Shopware vs. Shopify: Understanding Your Platform Options
Shopware: The European B2B Powerhouse
Born in Germany, Shopware has become the go-to choice for businesses prioritizing deep customization and complex B2B operations. Built on an open-source foundation with API-first architecture, it offers unparalleled flexibility for companies with specific technical requirements.
Core Strengths:
- Complete source code control and customization
- Native B2B features, including complex pricing models
- Strong European market focus with GDPR compliance
- Advanced ERP integration capabilities
- Headless commerce readiness
Shopify: The Global Scaling Solution
Shopify has evolved from a simple eCommerce platform into a comprehensive business solution. With the introduction of Shopify Plus B2B, it now offers enterprise-grade capabilities while maintaining its signature ease of use.
Core Strengths:
- Cloud-based infrastructure with automatic scaling
- User-friendly interface requiring minimal technical expertise
- Extensive app ecosystem (8,000+ apps)
- Predictable pricing model
- Global reach with built-in internationalization
Platform Comparison: Key Features & Capabilities
| Feature | Shopware | Shopify (Plus) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Type | Open-source/Cloud hybrid | Fully managed SaaS |
| Setup Complexity | High (requires developer) | Low (user-friendly) |
| B2B Features | Native and extensive | Strong (Plus required) |
| Customization | Unlimited | App-based with API access |
| Hosting | Self-hosted or cloud | Cloud only |
| Support | Community/Partner-based | 24/7 dedicated support |
| Multi-language | Built-in European focus | Global with 20+ languages |
| Transaction Fees | None (self-hosted) | 0.5-2.9% (depending on plan) |
| App Ecosystem | ~3,000 plugins | 8,000+ apps |
B2B Feature Deep-Dive
Customer & Company Management
Shopware Advantages:
- Sophisticated multi-user account hierarchies
- Granular role-based permissions
- Custom customer approval workflows
- Advanced account-specific catalogs
Shopify Plus Advantages:
- Native B2B company profiles (Plus)
- Streamlined buyer onboarding
- Location-based pricing and catalogs
- Intuitive account management interface
Pricing & Catalog Management
Shopware:
- Complex pricing rules and customer-specific contracts
- Volume-based tiered pricing with unlimited breakpoints
- Price lists by customer segments
- Custom product configurators
Shopify Plus:
- Customer-specific price lists and catalogs
- Automated quantity breaks and volume discounts
- Real-time pricing from ERP systems
- B2B-only product visibility controls
Order Management & Workflows
Shopware:
- Multi-level approval processes
- Custom workflow automation
- Advanced order splitting and partial fulfillment
- Native quote-to-cash functionality
Shopify Plus:
- Draft order workflows for quotes
- PO number collection at checkout
- Net payment terms (30/60/90 days)
- Automated order routing via Shopify Flow
ERP Integration: Connecting Your Tech Stack
| Category | Shopware | Shopify (Plus) |
|---|---|---|
| Integration Type | Native API-First | Pre-built + Middleware |
| SAP Connection | Native Connector | Certified Partners (Celigo) |
| Setup Complexity | High – Developer Required | Pre-built Apps |
| Customization Level | Unlimited Custom Logic | Medium – Partner Assisted |
| Data Sync | Real-time Bidirectional | App-Based Configuration |
| Maintenance | Self-Managed Updates | Automatic Updates |
| Best For | Complex custom integrations, full control | Quick setup, managed solutions |
Shopware Integration Capabilities
Shopware’s API-first architecture excels at deep ERP integration:
- Native Connectors: SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Odoo
- Real-time Synchronization: Inventory, pricing, order data
- Custom Integration: Unlimited API customization
- Data Ownership: Complete control over integration logic
Shopify Plus Integration Options
Shopify Plus offers streamlined integration options:
- Pre-built Connectors: NetSuite, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics 365
- Certified Partners: Celigo, Patchworks, Boomi
- API Limitations: Higher rate limits on Plus (10 requests/second)
- Managed Approach: Less customization, but easier maintenance
Register for Our Shopware Deep-Dive Webinar
Want to explore Shopware’s capabilities firsthand? Join our comprehensive webinar on November 18th, where industry experts will demonstrate:
- Advanced B2B workflow configuration
- ERP integration best practices
- Custom pricing implementation
- European compliance strategies
Register Now for the Shopware Webinar
Shopware vs. Shopify: Total Cost of Ownership Analysis
Shopware Pricing Breakdown
| Edition | Monthly Cost | Transaction Fees | Additional Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community | Free | None | Hosting, development, maintenance |
| Rise | $660/month (€600) | None | Custom development, plugins |
| Evolve | $2,640/month (€2,400) | None | Premium features, support |
| Beyond | $7,150/month (€6,500) | None | Enterprise features |
Hidden Costs:
- Development team or agency retainer: $3,300-8,800/month (€3,000-8,000)
- High-performance hosting: $220-1,100/month (€200-1,000)
- Security updates and maintenance: Ongoing
- Plugin licensing: $55-550/month per plugin (€50-500)
Shopify Plus Pricing Structure
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Transaction Fees | Hidden Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Shopify | $39/month (€35) | 2.9% + 30¢ | Hosting, SSL, updates, support INCLUDED. Apps (varies by app) |
| Advanced | $399/month (€363) | 2.4% + 30¢ | Hosting, SSL, updates, support INCLUDED. Apps (varies by app) |
| Shopify Plus | $2,300+/month (€2,091+) | 0.15% (with Shopify Payments) | Hosting, SSL, PCI compliance, 24/7 support INCLUDED. Premium apps |
Included Benefits:
- Hosting and CDN
- SSL certificates
- Automatic updates
- 24/7 support
- PCI compliance
European Market Considerations
GDPR & Data Privacy
Shopware:
- Built-in GDPR compliance tools
- Server location control (German data centers)
- Native consent management
- EU-specific legal frameworks
Shopify:
- GDPR-compliant but US-based servers
- Privacy tools and consent banners
- EU data processing agreements
- Cookie consent management apps
VAT & Tax Compliance
Shopware:
- Native OSS VAT handling
- Country-specific tax rules
- Multi-currency pricing with tax adjustments
- SEPA payment integration
Shopify:
- Shopify Tax for automated VAT collection
- EU OSS support
- Multi-currency with automatic tax calculation
- Local payment method integrations
GDPR & Compliance Comparison Matrix
| Compliance Feature | Shopware | Shopify (Plus) |
|---|---|---|
| EU Data Residency | ✓ Full Support | ◐ Partial (US-based) |
| Server Location Control | ✓ German Data Centers | ✗ No Control |
| GDPR Compliance Tools | ✓ Built-in | ✓ Built-in |
| Cookie Consent Management | ✓ Native | ◐ App Required |
| Data Privacy Controls | ✓ Native Tools | ✓ Native Tools |
| VAT/OSS Handling | ✓ Native Support | ✓ Shopify Tax |
| Multi-Currency Tax | ✓ Automatic | ✓ Automatic |
| EU Payment Methods (SEPA) | ✓ Built-in | ◐ Integration Required |
| Right to Deletion (GDPR) | ✓ Automated | ✓ Automated |
| Data Processing Agreements | ✓ Available | ✓ Available |
| Server Locations | Germany, EU | US (EU compliant) |
Decision Framework: When to Choose Each Platform
Choose Shopware If:
- You need 100% control over source code customization
- Complex B2B pricing models are business-critical
- Your team has dedicated development resources
- European data residency is mandatory
- Deep ERP integration requires custom logic
- A multi-million dollar custom development budget is available
Choose Shopify If:
- Speed to market is a priority
- Predictable monthly costs are important for budgeting
- You lack in-house development resources
- Global expansion is part of your strategy
- You prefer a managed solution over self-hosting
- Your B2B needs fit within standard functionality
Migration Considerations
Moving FROM Shopware TO Shopify
Common Triggers:
- Reducing operational complexity and TCO
- Accessing better support and reliability
- Simplifying maintenance and updates
- Leveraging a superior app ecosystem
Migration Challenges:
- Complex pricing rules may need simplification
- Custom features require app alternatives
- Data structure differences
- Team retraining requirements
Moving FROM Shopify TO Shopware
Common Triggers:
- Need for unlimited customization capabilities
- Specific B2B requirements not met by apps
- Desire for complete data ownership
- Complex European compliance requirements
Migration Challenges:
- Significantly higher ongoing costs
- Need for a dedicated development team
- Infrastructure responsibility
- Extended implementation timeline
The Future of B2B eCommerce Platforms
Shopware’s Roadmap
- Enhanced cloud offerings with reduced complexity
- Improved developer experience and documentation
- Stronger international expansion
- Advanced AI and personalization features
Shopify’s B2B Evolution
- Continuous expansion of native B2B features
- Enhanced enterprise capabilities
- Improved API performance and flexibility
- AI-powered automation and insights
Making Your Platform Choice
The Shopware vs. Shopify decision ultimately comes down to your specific business requirements, technical resources, and growth strategy.
Shopware thrives when:
- Your competitive advantage lies in highly customized workflows
- Complex B2B requirements demand unlimited flexibility
- You have dedicated development resources
- European market focus and data residency are critical
Shopify excels when:
- You want to focus on business growth, not platform management
- Rapid scaling across global markets is essential
- Your B2B needs to align with standard functionality
- Predictable costs and managed infrastructure are priorities
Both platforms can successfully power mid-market B2B operations, but they require different approaches, investments, and levels of expertise.
Ready to Discuss Your Platform Choice?
Choosing between Shopware and Shopify isn’t just about features—it’s about finding the platform that aligns with your business vision and growth trajectory. Whether you’re looking to implement advanced B2B workflows or scale rapidly across international markets, the right platform decision will accelerate your success.
Atwix’s team specializes in both Shopware and Shopify implementations, helping mid-market B2B companies make informed platform decisions that drive long-term growth.
Schedule your platform consultation to get expert guidance on deciding between Shopware vs. Shopify.
Sources
¹ Shopify Inc., “Shopify Powers Millions of Businesses Worldwide,” company reports, 2024
² Shopify Help Center, “Subscriptions,” help.shopify.com, accessed 2024
³ Shopify Help Center, “Overview of B2B features on Shopify,” help.shopify.com, 2024
⁴ Shopify, “Pricing Plans and Transaction Fees,” shopify.com/pricing, 2024
⁵ Alokai, “7 Shopify limitations for large enterprises,” alokai.com, June 2024
⁶ Cleverific, “The actual cost of subscription billing on Shopify,” cleverific.com, 2024
⁷ TechCrunch and industry analysis reports on Shopify’s enterprise positioning, 2024