Building a custom Shopify app: why and how
When a custom Shopify app pays off, what it can do, and the steps to build it — and even publish it on the App Store.
When Shopify App Store apps don’t cover your need, a custom app takes over. It plugs into Shopify’s APIs to automate your exact process. Here’s when it’s worth it and how it works.
Public app vs custom app
A public app (from the store) is built for the many: convenient, but generic. A custom app is developed for your store only: it does exactly what you need, with no bloat and no third-party monthly fee forced on you.
When to build a custom app
- A specific business process no app covers
- An integration with your ERP, CRM or management software
- Automation (orders, inventory, B2B pricing)
- A unique customer feature that sets you apart
What an app can do
- Automate repetitive back-office tasks
- Sync Shopify with external tools
- Add features on the storefront
- Process and enrich your product or customer data
The steps
- Scope the need and use cases
- Technical design (Shopify APIs, webhooks, permissions)
- Development and testing
- Deployment, then maintenance
- Optional publishing on the Shopify App Store
Our experience
We designed and shipped two apps on the Shopify App Store: ShopAudit (AI audit of SEO, speed and conversion) and SizeGuide (AI size recommendation to cut returns). So we know the whole path, from idea to publishing.
Need a Shopify app or automation? Let’s talk — free quote within 24h.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a public app and a custom app?
The public one comes from the store and is generic; the custom one is developed for your store and does exactly what you need.
Do I have to publish the app on the Shopify App Store?
Not necessarily. A private/custom app can stay reserved to your store. Publishing only makes sense if you want to offer it to other merchants.
How much does a custom Shopify app cost?
It depends on complexity and integrations. We scope it then give a range; free quote within 24h.