Shopify App Development

Shopify apps allow you to extend the functionality of your online store, automate tasks, and improve the customer experience. With nearly 8,000 apps in the Shopify App Store, there’s something for almost every need.

But sometimes, ready-made apps aren’t enough. They may lack specific features or integrations required for your unique business. That’s where custom Shopify app development comes in – creating bespoke solutions tailored to your store.

What is a custom Shopify app, and why would you want one?

source: Shopify App Store

What Are Shopify Apps?

Shopify apps are plugins that:

• Enhance store functionality

• Automate tasks

• Improve customer experience

They use the Shopify API to access store data like inventory, orders, and customer information, enabling you to perform actions directly from your Shopify admin panel.

Apps fall into two main categories:

1. Free or paid apps from the Shopify App Store – These can be installed and configured within minutes.

2. Custom apps – Built specifically for your business needs, offering unique functionality not available in public apps.

Why Use Shopify Apps?

Shopify apps save time and streamline operations. For example:

• Accounting apps automatically import sales data, generate invoices, and forecast profits.

• Marketing apps can handle email campaigns, upsell bundles, or social media promotion.

• Inventory management apps simplify stock tracking and forecasting.

Apps allow you to:

• Automate repetitive tasks

• Add new features quickly

• Centralize workflows in one place

Types of Shopify Apps

Public Apps

• Created by Shopify or third-party developers

• Available to all merchants via the Shopify App Store

• Useful for common store problems

• Can be listed (found in the App Store) or unlisted (available via a developer link)

Limitations:

• Designed for a broad audience

• Limited customization

Custom Apps

• Developed specifically for a single store or business

• Tailored features, integrations, and workflows

• Faster performance since they’re built for your store

• Don’t require Shopify approval – install immediately after development

Custom apps are ideal for:

• Integrating with a dedicated CRM or ERP

• Automating specific business processes

• Combining multiple functionalities into a single app

Benefits of Custom Shopify Apps

Custom apps come with advantages that public apps can’t match:

1. Solve your exact problem – Designed to address the specific issues holding your business back.

2. You own it – All code, data, and assets belong to your business.

3. High scalability – Add new features or integrations as your business grows.

4. Priority support – Direct access to the developers who built the app.

5. Full customization – Complete control over design, functionality, and user interface.

6. Better performance – Optimized for your website, ensuring smooth operation and faster load times.

Why Hire a Shopify App Development Agency?

While technically possible to build an app yourself, it’s often more efficient and cost-effective to hire professionals:

• Saves time and reduces risk

• Ensures the app is properly tested and secure

• Provides long-term maintenance and updates

• Allows you to focus on running your business

A professional agency will:

• Understand your business and requirements

• Design and build a solution tailored to your store

• Test the app with real users

• Plan for future upgrades and integrations

Examples of Custom Apps We’ve Developed

WeCanFly has built numerous Shopify apps, including:

• Przelewy24 integration – Official payment gateway app for Polish merchants

• PayPo BNPL integration – Buy Now, Pay Later solution

• Super Payments integration – Seamless checkout payment option with marketing assets

• InPost integration – Parcel locker and courier delivery for Shopify stores

• Courier integrations – DHL, DPD, UPS, TNT, GLS, FedEx support via one app

These apps improve user experience, streamline operations, and increase store functionality.

Conclusion

Public Shopify apps are a great starting point for new merchants or stores with basic needs.

However, for businesses seeking unique features, better performance, or scalable solutions, custom apps are the ideal choice.

Hiring a Shopify app development agency like WeCanFly ensures:

• A tailored, user-friendly solution

• Integration with your existing systems

• Long-term scalability and support

Instead of juggling multiple apps, you can have one custom app designed to grow with your business.