1. Introduction to B2B on Shopify: The Complete Guide to Wholesale Selling
Shopify B2B is a powerful set of built-in wholesale (B2B) features that allow you to effectively sell to other businesses through your Shopify admin panel and your online store. These tools allow you to create a personalized shopping experience for your wholesale customers without the need for third-party apps or workarounds to set up B2B e-commerce.
With Shopify B2B, an integrated wholesale platform, you can:
- Set up individual catalogs and prices for wholesale customers
- Set payment terms and deposit requirements for B2B buyers
- Manage company profiles and their locations
- Personalize the checkout process for wholesale
- Automate B2B Processes with Shopify Flow
📊 Key Benefits of Shopify for B2B
- One platform - manage your retail and wholesale sales in one place.
- Personalization – Create a unique experience for every B2B customer.
- Flexibility - customize prices, payment terms and delivery for wholesale sales.
- Automation - Streamline your workflows with Shopify tools.
- Integrations - Use other Shopify features (analytics, themes, API) for your B2B portal.
Important Note on Shopify Plus
Shopify B2B features are only available to stores on the Shopify Plus plan. If you're not using Shopify Plus, you'll need to upgrade or consider third-party wholesale apps.
2. Shopify B2B Requirements and Limitations
✅ Shopify B2B Requirements
- Shopify Plus Plan - B2B features are included in this plan.
- New version of Customer Accounts - B2B works only with the new version.
- Setting up B2B customers as companies - You need to create company profiles in Shopify.
- Selecting the store type - mixed or dedicated B2B store (more details in the next section).
❌ Shopify B2B limitations
- Subscriptions incompatibility - Subscriptions features do not work with B2B on Shopify.
- Incompatible with Shopify POS - cannot be used for point of sale in B2B scenarios.
- Payment method restrictions - Shop Pay, Shop Cash and Shop Pay Installments are not available for B2B orders.
- Difficulty changing store type - Once B2B is set up, it is difficult to switch from one type to another.
Alternative solutions for wholesale sales
If Shopify's built-in B2B features don't meet your wholesale needs, or you're not on the Shopify Plus plan, consider using third-party wholesale apps from the Shopify App Store.
3. B2B Store Types on Shopify: Hybrid or Dedicated?
Before setting up B2B on Shopify, you need to choose the type of B2B store you want to run. This is an important decision to make early on, as it can be difficult to change the type of store (e.g. from B2C to B2B or mixed) after setup. There are two main options for your B2B commerce on Shopify:
Blended Store for B2B and B2C
Definition: A single Shopify store used for both B2B (wholesale) and B2C (retail) customers.
Key features of a mixed store:
- One admin panel to manage all B2B and B2C operations.
- One online store for all customers.
- Common theme and branding for B2B and B2C (with the ability to contextualize content).
- General stocks of goods for wholesale and retail sales.
What can be configured separately for B2B and B2C in a mixed store:
- Products and their availability (for adding products, see the guide on adding products in Shopify)
- Pricing (wholesale and retail prices)
- Payment methods
- Delivery methods
- Discounts
- Store Content
- Tax incentives
A mixed store is suitable if you:
- Sell similar products to B2B and B2C customers.
- Use common stocks for wholesale and retail sales.
- Have one staff to manage both B2B and B2C sales on Shopify.
Dedicated B2B Store on Shopify
Definition: A dedicated Shopify store used only for B2B customers and wholesale sales.
Key features of a dedicated B2B store:
- Separate admin panel for B2B operations only.
- A separate online store for B2B clients.
- Unique B2B theme and branding.
- Separate stocks of goods for bulk orders.
Benefits of a dedicated B2B store:
- All settings are automatically applied to B2B clients only.
- The ability to create a completely separate B2B experience.
- Possibility to restrict access to the store only for B2B clients (closed B2B portal).
- Separate analytics for B2B operations only.
A dedicated B2B store is suitable if you:
- Want to create a completely standalone B2B experience on Shopify.
- Need separate stocks for B2B and B2C.
- Want to restrict access to your wholesale store to B2B customers only?
- Have different staff for B2B and B2C operations.
Important Warning About Choosing a Store Type
Choosing the type of B2B store (mixed or dedicated) should be done carefully, as it will be difficult to change it later. When switching from one type to another, you will need to re-configure companies, B2B catalogs, store settings, and other elements for wholesale trade.
Shopify B2B Store Types Comparison Chart
| Function | Mixed B2B/B2C store | Dedicated B2B store |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Single panel for B2B and B2C | Separate panel for B2B only |
| Analytics | General for B2B and B2C with filtering option | For B2B transactions only |
| Placing an order | Requires customization to separate B2B and B2C | Automatically configured for B2B |
| Stocks | Common to B2B and B2C | Separate for B2B only |
| Goods | Segmentation via B2B directories is required | All products are for B2B only |
| Closed access | Not possible (B2C access required) | Possible (B2B only) |
| Applications | Set up and paid for once | Requires re-setup and payment (see Shopify App Store) |
| Discounts | Segmentation is required for B2B and B2C | Applies to B2B only |
| Tax settings | General with customization options for B2B | For B2B clients only |
| Store branding | General with the possibility of contextualization | Unique for B2B only |
4. Managing B2B Companies and Customers in Shopify
In Shopify B2B, you manage wholesale customers using a hierarchical structure: companies, company locations, and B2B customers. This structure allows you to flexibly customize different settings for different levels of wholesale customers.
🏢 Company (B2B Company)
Definition: The parent organization for one or more business locations in the Shopify B2B system.
The company allows you to group several business locations under one profile. For example, a chain of stores or a franchise can be presented as one company with several locations.
📍 Company Location
Definition: A business unit (such as a specific branch or warehouse) to which you sell in a B2B transaction.
Each location can have its own individual settings:
- Tax ID and benefits
- Shipping and Billing Addresses
- Custom Pricing and B2B Catalogs Shopify
- Payment terms for wholesale
- Checkout settings
👤 Client (B2B Customer)
Definition: An individual making purchases on behalf of a business in a B2B transaction on the Shopify platform.
Customers are associated with a company or company location and may have different permission levels to place orders. A single B2B customer may be associated with multiple companies or locations.
Key Features for Managing B2B Companies on Shopify
Company Profiles for B2B
Create detailed profiles for B2B customers with settings for payment terms, addresses, permissions, catalogs, and tax benefits. This allows you to personalize the experience for each wholesale customer.
Requests for B2B account creation
Create a request form that allows potential B2B customers to apply for access to wholesale purchases through your store. You can review the application and decide whether to grant access.
Migrating Customers and Order History to B2B
Migrate existing customer order history to a company and company location in the Shopify admin panel. This allows you to add existing B2C customers and their order history to an existing B2B company.
Invitations for B2B clients
Set up and send email invitations to new B2B customers to place orders on your behalf. These notifications are customizable and optional. Learn more about B2B customer management.
B2B Personnel Permissions
Adapt permissions for different types of salesperson profiles, limiting access only to the companies assigned to them. This allows you to create a structure where each sales manager sees only their B2B clients.
Automate B2B Processes with Shopify Flow
Create automations for B2B processes using actions and triggers in Shopify Flow. You can use ready-made Shopify Flow templates for B2B or create your own to streamline routine tasks.
B2B Customer Data Management Advice
You can make changes to companies, locations, customers, and meta fields in the Shopify admin panel or in bulk using a third-party app like Matrixify (available in the Shopify App Store). This is especially useful when setting up a large number of B2B customers.
5. B2B Catalogs and Wholesale Pricing in Shopify
B2B catalogs are collections of products that you can offer to B2B companies with a personalized shopping experience for wholesale customers. With B2B catalogs in Shopify, you can control product availability and set up special wholesale pricing and quantity rules.
Key Features of Shopify B2B Catalogs
- Product Availability Management - Control which products are available to B2B customers.
- Custom Wholesale Pricing - Set special prices for wholesale.
- Assign Catalogs - Assign catalogs to B2B markets or specific company locations.
- Volume Pricing - Offer discounts when you buy a certain amount of a product.
- Quantity Rules - Set minimum, maximum quantity or order increment for bulk buyers.
🔢 Shopify B2B Volume Pricing Example
| Quantity | Price per unit | Discount |
|---|---|---|
| 1-9 | $20.00 | 0% |
| 10-49 | $18.00 | 10% |
| 50-99 | $16.00 | 20% |
| 100+ | $15.00 | 25% |
Setting up quantity rules for B2B orders
⬆️ Minimum order quantity (MOQ)
Set a minimum quantity of a product that a B2B customer must order.
Example: Minimum order quantity for T-shirts is 12 pieces (1 dozen).
Benefit: Ensures that customers order wholesale quantities rather than retail quantities.
⬇️ Maximum order quantity
Limit the maximum quantity of an item a B2B customer can order.
Example: No more than 1000 units of goods in one order.
Benefit: Helps manage inventory and prevents orders from being too large, which can be difficult to process.
🔄 Order Increment
Determine the step at which a B2B customer can order a product.
Example: Order only 5 pieces: 5, 10, 15, 20...
Advantage: Simplifies packaging and logistics, especially if the goods are packaged in a certain way.
Volume Pricing Calculator (Example)
Shopify B2B Catalog Rules Usage Example
Imagine you sell wholesale t-shirts. You can create a B2B catalog where:
- Minimum order is 12 pieces (1 dozen).
- Order step is 12 pieces (customers can order only 12, 24, 36... pieces).
- Volume Pricing: 12-60 pieces at $10 per piece, 72-144 pieces at $9 per piece, over 144 pieces at $8 per piece.
Result of wholesale price calculation:
$20.00 per unit
Total: $20.00
6. B2B Payments and Payment Terms in Shopify
B2B customers often require special payment terms because bulk orders are typically larger and not always paid for at checkout. Shopify B2B lets you automate the process of assigning payment terms to B2B orders.
Payment Terms for Shopify Wholesale Customers
Payment terms determine how much time a company has to pay for a B2B order. You can set payment terms for each company location.
- Net 7 - payment within 7 days
- Net 15 - payment within 15 days
- Net 30 - payment within 30 days
- Net 45 - payment within 45 days
- Net 60 - payment within 60 days
- Net 90 - payment within 90 days
- Due on fulfillment — payment upon order fulfillment
- Due on receipt - payment upon receipt
- Go to the Companies section in your Shopify admin panel.
- Select the company and location for which you want to set payment terms.
- In the "Payment Terms" section, select the desired type.
- Adjust deposit requirements if necessary.
- Save the changes.
Once you set up your payment terms, B2B customers will be able to see these terms when they check out through your Shopify online store.
When a B2B order is due for payment, you can collect payment in one of the following ways:
- Using a saved card - if a B2B client has saved a card, you can charge funds automatically.
- Send Invoice - Send an invoice to your customer for payment.
- Manual payment entry - enter a payment received by another method (check, bank transfer).
You can also set up automatic payment reminders using Shopify Flow .
💰 Deposits for B2B orders in Shopify
You can request partial payment for a B2B order when it is created, and the rest later. This improves your cash flow.
Features of deposits in Shopify B2B:
- Percentage basis - for example, 30% of the order amount.
- Compatibility - works with B2B orders and draft orders.
- Payment flexibility - can be paid by credit card or manual payment method.
Example of a 30% deposit:
Benefits of Using Deposits in B2B
- Reducing financial risks for the seller.
- Improving the company's cash flow.
- Confirmation of the seriousness of the B2B client’s intentions.
- Partial coverage of costs for fulfilling a wholesale order.
B2B Payment Methods on Shopify
💳 Shopify Payments for B2B
- Possibilities:
- Accept credit and debit cards from B2B customers.
- Support for local payment methods.
- Saving cards for future B2B payments.
- Advantages:
- Quick setup without third-party payment providers.
- Processing payments immediately after opening the store.
- Possibility to use saved cards for future B2B payments.
💼 Manual payment methods for B2B
- Available methods:
- Cash on delivery (COD) for bulk orders.
- Bank transfer.
- Check.
- Other customizable payment methods.
- Advantages:
- Flexibility for B2B clients.
- Compliance with traditional B2B payment processes.
- Possibility of customization to specific business needs.
🔄 PayPal for B2B transactions
- Possibilities:
- Offer PayPal as a payment option for B2B customers.
- Convenient for international B2B clients.
- Fast payment processing via PayPal.
- Advantages:
- PayPal's wide distribution and recognition.
- Buyer and seller protection.
- Supports multiple currencies.
💾 Saved Credit Cards for B2B
- Possibilities:
- B2B clients can save maps at the company location level.
- Using saved cards when placing a B2B order.
- Process payments from the Shopify admin panel.
- Advantages:
- Simplifying repeat purchases for B2B customers.
- Automation of payment collection according to payment terms.
- Secure storage of card data (according to Shopify standards).
Shopify B2B Payment Method Limitations
The following payment methods are not compatible with Shopify B2B:
- Shop Pay is Shopify's faster payment method.
- Shop Cash is Shopify's rewards program.
- Shop Pay Installments - Pay in installments via Shopify.
7. Checkout for B2B customers on Shopify
Shopify B2B lets you customize your checkout process specifically for your wholesale customers. You can personalize every aspect of your B2B checkout, including discounts, payment options, and shipping options, based on logic that matches your wholesale eCommerce processes.
Key Features of B2B Checkout in Shopify
Personalized B2B order processing
Allow B2B customers to view and place orders using their assigned payment terms, deposits, payment methods and volume discounts.
One Page Checkout for B2B
Use a one-page checkout for B2B customers. Customers can view order, shipping, company, and payment information on one page to speed up the process.
Sending B2B orders as Draft Orders
Choose whether you want to require B2B customer orders to be posted as drafts based on your company location. This allows you to review and make changes to orders before they are confirmed.
Blocking prices in B2B order drafts
Lock the price in any B2B order draft. Locking the price ensures that the prices of the products in the order will not change, even if you update the product price later in the Shopify admin.
Reserving goods in B2B order drafts
Reserve inventory for any B2B draft order. Reserving inventory ensures that specific items cannot be purchased by other customers while the bulk order is being processed.
Disposable shipping addresses for B2B
Set up a one-time shipping address at your company location so that B2B customers can enter alternate addresses at checkout without saving the address at your company location.
🔄 The B2B Order Process on Shopify: Step by Step
Login to your B2B client account
The B2B client logs into his account associated with the company. The system automatically recognizes him as a B2B client and applies the appropriate settings (catalogs, prices, conditions).
View B2B catalog and prices
The customer sees the products and prices assigned to their company or location via B2B catalogs. Only products available to them with corresponding wholesale prices are displayed.
Adding products to the cart according to B2B rules
When adding products, quantity rules (minimum, maximum, step) and volume pricing are applied. The customer can see how the price changes when the quantity changes.
Placing a B2B order
On the checkout page, the B2B customer sees their payment terms, deposit requirements, and available payment methods. If a deposit is required, the customer pays only that portion.
Confirm order or send as draft
Depending on your settings, a B2B order may be confirmed immediately or sent as a draft for your review and confirmation.
The Benefits of B2B Order Drafts on Shopify
Using order drafts for B2B customers provides several important benefits for your wholesale business:
- Review before confirmation - you can review your order and make changes if necessary.
- Negotiations with the client - an opportunity to discuss the details of the order before it is confirmed.
- Price adjustments - the ability to apply special discounts or change prices for a specific B2B order.
- Availability check - ensure all items are available before confirming your order.
- Logistics management - planning delivery and fulfillment of wholesale orders.
8. Setting up a B2B store and user experience on Shopify
You can customize your online store content to display different content to B2B and B2C customers, or to display content to different markets using Shopify Markets. You can also enhance the B2B shopping experience by using a special theme from the Shopify Theme Store designed for B2B businesses, or adapt an existing one.
Basic Features of Setting Up a B2B Shopify Store
Contextualizing your online store with Shopify Markets
Display different content in your online store to different types of customers with Markets. Whether you have a mixed or dedicated B2B store, you can display different content to B2B and B2C customers or to different regions.
Quick Order Lists for B2B
Set up Quick Order Lists so B2B customers can add multiple product options to their cart with one click from the product detail page, speeding up the bulk purchasing process.
Shopify B2B Themes (e.g. "Trade")
Use a theme from the Shopify Theme Store, such as the Trade theme (if available and suitable) or another theme specifically designed for B2B businesses with features like hiding product prices for non-logged-in customers.
Custom Headless B2B Store on Shopify
Build a custom headless store for your B2B business and use your preferred tech stack with Hydrogen or the Storefront API and Customer Accounts API.
Liquid support for B2B email themes and templates
Customize email subjects and templates to include company information and other B2B-specific data using the Liquid templating language. Learn more about email marketing.
🔒 Closed access to the Shopify B2B store
For a dedicated B2B store, you can set up private access so that only authorized B2B customers can view your wholesale catalog and place orders.
Advantages of a closed B2B store:
- Exclusivity - only approved B2B clients have access.
- Price protection - wholesale prices are not visible to the public and competitors.
- Access control - you decide who can see your B2B catalog.
- Professional approach – creates a feeling of exclusive B2B partnership.
How does closed access work for B2B:
- Visitors only see the login page or access request form.
- Customers can request access via the B2B account request form.
- You review requests and grant access to approved companies.
- Approved B2B clients receive login credentials.
- Once logged in, customers can see the entire B2B catalog, wholesale prices, and place orders.
Tips for Customizing a B2B Shopify Theme
If you are using a free Shopify theme (version 11.0+), you can customize your online store to display different content for B2B and B2C customers using the Theme Editor. If you are using a custom theme or an older version of a Shopify theme, you can use the Liquid variable customer.b2b to edit your theme code and adapt it for B2B.
Examples of Content Contextualization for B2B and B2C on Shopify
B2B Store Home Page
- Emphasis on wholesale benefits and conditions.
- Information about minimum order quantities (MOQ).
- Volume discounts and wholesale prices.
- Payment terms for B2B.
- B2B customer reviews.
- Wholesale Account Request Form.
Product page in B2B catalog
- Displaying wholesale prices.
- Volume pricing table.
- Minimum order quantities (MOQ) and order step.
- Information on wholesale availability.
- Technical specifications and documentation (see how to write sales descriptions).
- Quick order option.
Cart and checkout for B2B
- Information about the buyer's company.
- Display of agreed payment terms.
- Deposit requirements (if applicable).
- Field for the purchase order number (Purchase Order Number).
- B2B-specific payment and delivery methods.
- Option to send the order as a draft.
B2C Store Home Page
- Focus on consumer benefits and branding.
- Latest collections and new items.
- Retail promotions and discounts.
- Reviews from retail customers.
- Blog and consumer content (such as our courses and articles ).
- Social proof (Instagram feeds, etc.).
Product page for B2C clients
- Retail prices.
- Focus on style, design and user experience.
- Detailed lifestyle photos.
- Consumer reviews.
- Related products and recommendations.
- Personalization options (if any).
Cart and checkout for B2C
- Standard customer information.
- Retail payment methods ( Shop Pay , credit cards, etc.).
- Delivery options for consumers.
- Using coupons and promotional codes.
- Upsell and cross-sell offers.
- Integration with loyalty programs.
9. Step-by-step setup of B2B features in Shopify
Setting up B2B features in Shopify requires a step-by-step approach. Below are the basic steps for setting up both a blended and dedicated B2B store on the Shopify platform. For more detailed information, check out the official Shopify B2B documentation or our guide on setting up a Shopify store.
Setting up a mixed B2B/B2C store on Shopify
Preliminary preparation for B2B setup
Before you start setting up B2B in a mixed store:
- Make sure you're using the Shopify Plus plan.
- Review Shopify B2B requirements and limitations.
- If your B2B customers are set up as regular customers, prepare to migrate their information and order history to your B2B company.
Creation of B2B companies and locations
Set up B2B customers in Shopify with companies and company locations:
- Create a company in your Shopify admin panel.
- Add company locations.
- Add clients to companies and locations.
- Set up company location details (payment terms, tax benefits, etc.).
- Add meta fields to companies and locations for additional customization if needed.
Setting up B2B catalogs and wholesale prices
Create and customize B2B catalogs:
- Create a B2B catalog in the admin panel.
- Select products to include in the catalog.
- Set wholesale prices for products.
- Set up quantity rules (minimum, maximum, step).
- Set up volume pricing if needed.
- Assign a directory to companies or company locations.
Setting up payment terms for B2B
Set payment terms for B2B clients:
- Select the appropriate payment terms for each company location.
- Adjust deposit requirements if necessary.
- Set up payment methods available to B2B customers.
- Set up payment reminders with Shopify Flow.
Setting up the B2B ordering process
Personalize your B2B checkout process:
- Set whether B2B orders should be sent as drafts.
- Set up a one-page checkout for B2B.
- Set up shipping options for B2B customers.
- Set up the ability to use disposable shipping addresses.
Setting up an online store for B2B and B2C
Adapt your online store for B2B customers in a mixed model:
- Customize content contextualization for B2B and B2C with Markets.
- Set up quick order lists.
- Customize your theme for B2B if needed (consider specialized B2B themes or adapt your current one).
- Customize email templates for B2B communications.
Testing and launching B2B functionality
Check your B2B setup before going full launch:
- Create a test B2B client to test the features.
- Test the process of logging in and browsing the B2B catalog.
- Please check that wholesale prices and quantity rules are displayed correctly.
- Test the checkout process and payment terms.
- After successful testing, invite your B2B clients.
Setting Up a Dedicated B2B Store on Shopify
Creating a New Shopify Store for B2B
For a dedicated B2B store:
- Create a new Shopify store or adapt an existing add-on store (see the beginner's guide for details).
- Make sure your new store is using the Shopify Plus plan.
- Set up basic store settings (name, currency, taxes, etc.).
Importing goods into a B2B store
Transfer products to your dedicated B2B store:
- Export products from your main store (if applicable).
- Modify prices, descriptions and images for B2B audiences.
- Import products into your B2B store.
- Set up inventory specifically for your B2B store.
Creating B2B companies and locations in a new store
Set up B2B clients in your new store:
- Create companies for your B2B clients.
- Add company locations.
- Add clients to companies.
- Set up location details (payment terms, tax incentives, etc.).
Setting up B2B catalogs and wholesale prices
Create B2B catalogs for different customer groups in a dedicated store:
- Create catalogs for different types of B2B clients.
- Set wholesale prices.
- Set up quantity rules and volume pricing.
- Assign directories to companies or locations.
Setting up payment terms and processing of B2B orders
Set up the payment and checkout process for B2B customers:
- Set payment terms for B2B clients.
- Adjust deposit requirements if necessary.
- Set up payment methods for B2B.
- Customize your checkout process.
- Set up shipping options for bulk orders.
Setting up an online store for B2B
Create a B2B-oriented online store:
- Install and configure a B2B theme (e.g. "Trade" or similar).
- Customize your store content for a B2B audience.
- Set up quick order lists.
- If necessary, set up private access to the store.
- Set up a B2B account creation request form.
Setting up B2B applications and integrations
Install the necessary B2B applications for your store:
- Please reinstall and configure all necessary applications.
- Set up integrations with your systems (ERP, CRM, etc.).
- Set up Shopify Flow to automate your B2B processes.
Testing and launching a dedicated B2B store
Check your B2B store before launching:
- Create a test B2B company and client.
- Test the entire process from login to checkout.
- Check that all B2B functions are working correctly.
- After successful testing, invite your B2B clients.
- Provide instructions on how to use the new B2B store.
Important Points When Setting Up Shopify B2B
- Planning - Plan your B2B company and directory structure carefully before you begin setting it up.
- Data Migration – If you already have B2B clients, prepare a plan to migrate their data.
- Testing - Always test all B2B features before inviting real customers.
- Training – Prepare instructions for your B2B customers on how to use your new wholesale store. Visit Shopify Academy for helpful resources.
- Support - Be prepared to support your B2B customers during the transition. Reach out to Shopify support or the Shopify community.
10. Conclusion: Using Shopify B2B Effectively to Grow Your Wholesale Business
Shopify B2B provides a powerful set of tools for organizing wholesale sales (B2B e-commerce) directly through the Shopify platform. These features allow you to create a personalized experience for your B2B customers, automate processes, and effectively manage wholesale sales, turning Shopify into a full-fledged B2B platform. Learn more about ways to increase sales.
Key Benefits of Shopify B2B for Wholesale
- B2B and B2C integration - the ability to manage both sales channels on one Shopify platform.
- Personalization of B2B experience - customization of prices, catalogs and conditions for each wholesale client.
- Flexibility of B2B solutions – choice between a mixed and dedicated B2B store.
- Wholesale Process Automation - Streamline B2B Processes with Shopify Flow.
- Shopify's B2B scalability means you can grow with your business and increase your wholesale sales.
Next Steps for Growing B2B on Shopify
After setting up B2B functions, it is recommended to:
- Regularly analyze the performance of your B2B sales channel.
- Collect feedback from B2B customers to improve the experience.
- Optimize processes based on Shopify data and analytics.
- Explore additional opportunities to expand B2B sales (e.g. international B2B sales).
- Stay up to date with Shopify B2B updates and platform news to take advantage of new features. Learn how to effectively market your Shopify store.
📊 Compare Shopify B2B with other B2B solutions
| Function | Shopify B2B (on Shopify Plus) | Third Party B2B Applications | Separate B2B platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shopify integration | Built-in, seamless | Via API, restrictions may apply | Limited or absent |
| Setting up wholesale prices | Full, flexible | Depends on the application | Complete |
| Payment terms for B2B | Built-in | Limited or via additional modules | Extended |
| B2B Company Management | Built-in | Basic or via app | Extended |
| Unified platform (B2C+B2B) | Yes (for mixed stores) | Yes (integrates with Shopify) | No (separate system) |
| Price | Included in Shopify Plus | Additional fee for the application | High (often individual rates) |
Tips for Optimizing B2B Sales on Shopify
To maximize the effectiveness of B2B sales on Shopify, it is recommended to regularly analyze data on orders, B2B customer behavior, and catalog performance. Use this information to optimize prices, terms, and processes to better meet the needs of your B2B customers and increase their loyalty. Consider SEO optimization of your B2B store.
11. Shopify B2B Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Shopify B2B is a set of built-in features in the Shopify platform designed to facilitate wholesale (business-to-business) sales. It allows businesses to sell products to other businesses through the same Shopify admin panel they use for retail (B2C) sales, or through a dedicated B2B store.
Shopify B2B is suitable for companies that:
- Want to manage wholesale and retail sales on one platform.
- Need personalized catalogs, prices and payment terms for different wholesale customers.
- They strive to automate B2B ordering processes.
- They plan to scale up their wholesale business.
These features require a Shopify Plus plan.
Yes, to access Shopify's built-in B2B features like company management, B2B catalogs, custom pricing, and payment terms, you must be on the Shopify Plus plan. If you're not on Shopify Plus, you may want to consider third-party B2B apps from the Shopify App Store , but they may have different functionality and payment models.
Blended Store:
- Combines B2B and B2C sales in one store and one admin panel.
- Uses common stock and typically common branding (with the possibility of customization).
- Requires customization to separate B2B and B2C customer experiences (e.g. through catalogs and Shopify Markets ).
- Suitable if the products and processes for B2B and B2C are similar.
Dedicated Store:
- This is a separate Shopify store designed exclusively for B2B customers.
- Has a separate admin panel, inventory and branding.
- Allows you to create a fully customized and closed B2B portal.
- Suitable if B2B operations are very different from B2C, strict access control or separate business processes are required.
The choice depends on your business strategy and the complexity of your B2B operations.
B2B catalogs in Shopify allow you to control what products your wholesale customers see and at what prices. You can:
- Create multiple catalogs for different B2B customer groups or markets.
- Set individual prices for products in each catalog (for example, fixed prices or percentage discounts from the retail price).
- Set up volume pricing (quantity discounts).
- Set quantity rules (minimum/maximum order quantity, order step).
- Assign directories to specific companies or their locations.
This ensures a personalized approach to each B2B client. Learn more about setting up B2B catalogs .
Shopify B2B allows you to flexibly set up payment terms for wholesale customers. You can set them for each location of your company. Available options include:
- Net terms: Net 7, Net 15, Net 30, Net 45, Net 60, Net 90 (payment within the specified number of days).
- Due on fulfillment: Payment upon order fulfillment.
- Due on receipt: Payment upon receipt.
You can also set up deposit (partial prepayment) requirements and use Shopify Flow for automatic payment reminders.
Yes, Shopify B2B is tightly integrated with Shopify Flow , a workflow automation tool. With Shopify Flow, you can automate various B2B tasks, such as:
- Segmentation and tagging of B2B clients.
- Notifications to managers about new B2B orders or requests.
- Sending payment reminders for orders with deferred payment.
- Automatic creation of tasks for the sales department.
- And much more, using ready-made templates or creating your own workflows.