What is Multi-Store Ecommerce?
The multi-store model of ecommerce consists of multiple storefronts managed through a single admin panel. This allows the owner to create and manage a chain of storefronts for targeted traffic. These sub-stores can be based on different product lines, geographical areas, languages or any other differentiating factor.
This unique ecommerce setup can be compared to a real-life scenario where a brand sets up various outlets at different locations in the same city, country or across the globe. Some popular example of such online stores are the various storefronts of Amazon, Macy’s etc. for different countries.
Having multiple storefronts helps in improving conversions by targetting the specific needs of various audience segments. Using this model businesses can do the following;
- Create microsites for different audience groups
- Build niche stores that help with branding
- Give different look and feel to each sub-store
- Offer different products, prices, discounts etc. on each store
- Create storefronts in multiple languages and different currencies
- Offer store-based payment options to customers
- Have customized shipping structure for sub-stores of multi-store ecommerce setup
- Manage stores in a hassle-free way using the common admin panel
- Have a common order database, inventory etc.
- Get business insights on each store at one place
- Improve SEO and SERP rankings with targetted content and marketing
Types of Multi-Store Ecommerce Setups
There are various types of multi-storefronts models for B2C and B2B businesses. The most popular among these are;
This setup consists of multiple storefronts each selling a different product category. This is ideal for offering a variety of products under a brand name. For example, different sub-stores can be selling clothes, accessories, grooming products etc. under a single brand name.
This multi-store ecommerce setup is ideal for catering to targetted audiences at given geolocations within a city, country or across the globe. For example, different sub-stores can be created to sell grocery in various localities of a city or a global jewelery store can be built to cater to customers from various countries.
In this setup, a network of affiliate sub-stores can be created which are controlled centrally using a single admin. For example, a chain of stores can be created for various affiliates selling school supplies for different schools.
To create this unique ecommerce set up businesses will need a comprehensive multi-store ecommerce platform. With a flexible ecommerce platform, out-of-the-box use cases of sub-stores set up can be created to smartly target a wider audience segment.
Along with these a variety of different combinations and use cases of multi-seller ecommerce can be created to sell products and services online.
