The ever-growing digital world demands efficient and user-friendly eCommerce solutions. One such solution that stands out is BigCommerce, known for its flexibility and scalability. For brands looking to manage multiple stores, BigCommerce offers a robust multistore functionality. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the process of setting up and managing multiple stores with BigCommerce, accompanied by illustrative examples.
Why Opt for a Multistore Setup?
Before delving into the how-to, it’s essential to understand the ‘why’ behind a multistore setup:
- Diverse Market Reach: Brands catering to different regions might need stores in multiple languages or localized offerings.
- Targeted Marketing: Different stores can cater to distinct customer personas or product lines.
- Operational Efficiency: Manage various stores from a single interface without juggling multiple accounts.
Setting Up a BigCommerce Multistore
1. Register Multiple Domains
Example: Assume you own a brand “ElectroHub” selling electronics. You want to cater to both US and UK markets. Register two domains: `electrohub-us.com` and `electrohub-uk.com`.
Steps:
– Visit any domain registrar (like GoDaddy, Namecheap).
– Search for your desired domain name.
– Purchase the domains.
2. Set Up Stores on BigCommerce
Example: Create two separate BigCommerce accounts (or stores) – one for the US and another for the UK.
Steps:
– Sign up on BigCommerce.
– Fill in details specific to each store.
– Customize each store according to regional preferences.
3. Link Domains to Stores
Example: Associate `electrohub-us.com` to your US store and `electrohub-uk.com` to your UK store.
Steps:
– In the BigCommerce dashboard, navigate to **Server Settings** > **Domain Name**.
– Enter your domain details.
– Follow the DNS settings instructions.
4. Localize Each Store
Example: For the UK store, set the currency to GBP, and for the US store, set it to USD.
Steps:
– Navigate to Store Setup > Currencies.
– Add the desired currency and set it as default.
Efficiently Managing BigCommerce Multistore
- Centralized Inventory Management
Platforms like Skubana or ChannelApe allow integration with BigCommerce and help in managing inventory across multiple stores. For instance, if ElectroHub sells a particular headphone model, a centralized inventory system will update stock levels across both the US and UK stores.
- Unified Customer Support
Use platforms like Zendesk or Freshdesk that integrate with BigCommerce. Regardless of whether a customer inquiry comes from the US or UK store, the support team can handle it from one interface.
- Consistent Branding but Localized Marketing
The logo, brand colors, and core design elements should remain consistent across stores to maintain brand identity. However, tweak marketing materials for regional relevance. For instance, ElectroHub can offer winter deals on heaters in the US store while offering discounts on fans during the UK’s summer.
- Analyze and Optimize
Using tools like Google Analytics, track the performance of each store. Understand which products are popular in which regions and tailor marketing strategies accordingly.
Challenges and Tips
– Currency and Taxation: Ensure accurate currency conversion and abide by regional taxation rules. Tools like Avalara can help with tax calculations.
– Shipping and Logistics: Partner with reliable couriers who can efficiently cater to different regions.
– Language Barriers: If operating in non-English speaking regions, consider hiring native speakers or using translation services for accurate content.
Conclusion
BigCommerce’s multistore setup offers an efficient solution for businesses looking to expand their reach across different markets. While it requires meticulous planning and execution, the rewards in terms of increased market share and sales can be substantial. With the right tools and strategies, brands can efficiently manage multiple stores, ensuring consistent growth and profitability. Whether you’re a startup looking to grow or an established brand aiming for global dominance, BigCommerce’s multistore setup could be your next big step.
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