Headless Commerce: Getting to Know the Basics 

Headless vs. all-in-one solutions

There are many all-in-one solutions in the market with Shopify being one of the leading platforms. Native Shopify is an all-in-one solution and not headless. This means you use Shopify to build both your frontend and backend.

This is great for many brands as they can quickly get started, don’t want to mess with the backend, can easily build the front-end with Shopify’s no-code page builder, and have access to tons of pre-built apps for additional functionality. Many businesses start out with Shopify when they launch but it’s also used by multi-billion-euro businesses.

However, with an all-in-one solution, merchants are limited to build within the constraints of the platform. This can make it difficult to build truly custom and unique experiences that are important for some brands. This is where many businesses turn to headless to get full flexibility and control of the look and feel with infinite customizability in the backend.

What to consider when going headless vs all-in-one

Headless is very much about the flexibility and control it gives brands. But it’s not always the best nor is it the only solution available. Is the additional flexibility and customization worth the potential additional complexity and cost?

Large brands like J.Lindberg decided to build their new webstore on native Shopify and Nike launched their Nike Strength brand on native Shopify rather than going headless.

Making the right choice often depends on a thorough understanding of your business goals, capabilities, and resources. Before choosing an approach, consider:

• Business models, goals, and audience needs
• Technical capabilities and developer resources (many brands going headless use agencies)
• The total cost of ownership

Many brands and retailers have already move to a headless approach to benefit from greater flexibility and customization

Centra is a pioneer in headless and composable commerce, and a leading platform for fashion and lifestyle brands. It’s used by the likes of Nudie Jeans, Björn Borg, NN.07, Eton Shirts, and Sandqvist for DTC and wholesale commerce. With Centra, brands build commerce experience by composing their own technology stack using different components and integrations.

Another example of a headless platform is Commercetools which is used by iconic brands like Audi, BMW, and John Lewis. Brands and retailers use the platform to build custom commerce experiences, including across multiple touch points at scale. An example of this is Salling Group who has built their omnichannel experience with Commercetools, enabling them to move quickly and better address market needs.

Better flexibility, more sophistication are just some of the many opportunities that are seen through headless eCommerce allowing businesses whatever the size or industry to elevate their digital experiences to new levels.

More inspiration of brand running headless and different headless technology stack visit The Headless Club.