B2B-Shops 2025: Everything you need to know!

What is a B2B-Shop exactly?

A B2B-Shop (business-to-business) is an online platform on which companies sell products or services to other companies. This type of store is designed to meet the needs of business customers who place large order volumes and often require individual prices and payment terms. B2B-Shops offer functions that make purchasing more efficient for companies. These include personalized price lists, discounts and flexible payment methods such as purchase on account or payment by instalments.

The platforms also offer extensive integration options with ERP and CRM systems to seamlessly integrate the ordering process into the company structure.

PIM (Product Information Management) systems such as Akeneo PIM and DAM (Digital Asset Management) systems such as Tessa DAM can also be connected to a B2B-Shop. This allows product data such as descriptions, technical specifications and prices to be managed centrally and automatically updated in the store. At the same time, they ensure that digital content such as images, videos or documentation is displayed uniformly and in the highest quality.

In addition, several user roles can be defined so that different company employees have different rights in the store. B2B-Shops therefore offer a comprehensive solution for companies that regularly buy in large quantities and have complex ordering processes.

Differences between B2B and B2C-Shops

B2B and B2C-Shops Differ in Various Aspects, Especially in Target Audience and Functional Requirements

Target Audience:

• B2B-Shops cater to business customers. These customers have specific needs, such as the ability to purchase in bulk, negotiate individual prices, and arrange customized payment terms.
• B2C-Shops, on the other hand, are designed for end consumers who typically purchase smaller quantities at fixed prices.

Ordering Process and Features:

• B2B-Shops offer complex ordering processes. Businesses can purchase multiple products at once, often based on pre-negotiated prices and quantities. Additionally, B2B-Shops provide advanced features like price lists, discounts, and flexible payment options.
• B2C-Shops, in contrast, are simpler and allow consumers to directly select products, add them to their cart, and proceed to immediate payment.

Payment Terms:

• B2B-Shops provide flexible payment options, often including invoice payments, installment plans, or individually negotiated payment terms.
• B2C-Shops generally rely on quick payment methods such as credit cards, PayPal, or instant bank transfers.

Customer Support and Communication:

• B2B-Customers often expect personalized support and direct points of contact to assist with large orders or long-term business relationships.
• B2C-Customers typically use standard customer support, accessible via chat, email, or phone.

Learn more about B2C in e-commerce here.

How does a B2B-Shop work?

The functionality of a B2B-Shop is similar to that of a traditional online shop but with enhanced features tailored for business customers. Customers add products to their cart, can take advantage of special discounts or offers, and pay using customized payment terms. Additionally, B2B-Shops often include features such as personalized pricing, the ability to issue invoices, and more flexible shipping options.

The advantages of a B2B-Shop for your business

A B2B-Shop offers numerous advantages that can strengthen your business in a competitive market:

• Automation and efficiency: The ordering process is streamlined, requiring fewer manual interventions. This saves time and reduces errors.
• 24/7 availability: Your B2B-Shop is accessible around the clock, enabling your customers to place orders at any time.
• Expanded reach: With a B2B-Shop, you can reach customers worldwide and sell your products more efficiently.
• Personalized customization: You can create tailored offers and pricing structures for different business partners.

Overview of the most popular B2B-Shop systems

Choosing the right shop system is crucial for the success of your B2B-Shop. Here are three popular systems specifically developed for the B2B sector:

Shopware for tailored B2B solutions

Shopware offers a powerful and flexible solution designed specifically for B2B companies. With extensive features like custom price lists, catalogs, and user roles, it provides everything you need for your B2B-Shop.

Shopify for B2B-Shops

Shopify is a popular choice, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers a user-friendly interface and can be extended with various apps to add B2B-specific features.

Commercetools as a flexible B2B-solution

Commercetools offers a highly customizable, cloud-based platform that allows you to design your B2B-Shop exactly as you envision it. It is particularly suitable for companies with more complex requirements.

You can find more shop systems in the comparison overview by OMR.

Important aspects when creating your B2B-Shop

When building a B2B-Shop, there are several important factors to consider:

• Complexity and customization: B2B-Shops often require special features, such as flexible pricing or specific ordering processes. Make sure that your shop system can meet these needs.
• Integration with other systems: Your B2B-Shop should seamlessly integrate with existing systems like CRM, ERP, or inventory management systems to optimize the entire business process.
• User-friendliness: Even though the shop is intended for business customers, the user interface should be simple and intuitive to use.

As a Shopware agency, we are happy to assist you with a free initial consultation. Together, we will evaluate the requirements for your B2B-Shop and show you what matters in B2B e-commerce. Here you can learn more.

What costs are involved in a B2B-Shop?

The costs for a B2B-Shop can vary greatly depending on the requirements, scope, and technologies used. Generally, expenses can be divided into one-time initial costs and ongoing operating costs.

The initial costs include the development or purchase of the software, the design of the shop, and integration with existing systems such as ERP or CRM. Depending on whether you choose a standard solution or a custom-built platform, these costs can vary significantly. A simple solution might start at around €10.000, while customized B2B-Shops tailored to your specific needs can easily cost between €50.000 and over €200.000.