Shopify Stores For Sale in 2023: How And Where To Buy

If you’re aiming to establish a profitable online business, considering the acquisition of an existing Shopify store can be a wise decision. Popular marketplaces offer a plethora of options when it comes to Shopify Stores For Sale. Opting for a store built on the Shopify platform presents numerous advantages, including a user-friendly interface, customizable templates, and a wide range of powerful features that facilitate long-term business success. Managing an eCommerce business becomes simpler and more efficient with these built-in capabilities.

Creating a Shopify store from scratch can be both time-consuming and challenging, whereas purchasing an established one brings forth various benefits. These include an existing customer base, pre-existing website traffic, and an optimized website structure.

In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of acquiring a Shopify store and highlight some of the top platforms where you can find Shopify stores available for purchase.

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What is Shopify?

Shopify is an online platform that empowers entrepreneurs to establish their own eCommerce stores and sell products through personalized websites.

This subscription-based software provides a wide range of tools to assist sellers in creating customizable storefronts, showcasing their products, engaging with customers, and accepting payments in various currencies.

Since its launch in 2006, this reputable platform has gained popularity, serving over 1.7 million businesses worldwide. Experiencing significant growth in 2020, Shopify now represents a substantial portion, equivalent to 40%, of Amazon’s Marketplace.

One of the major advantages of using Shopify is that unlike other eCommerce marketplaces such as Amazon and Walmart, Shopify store owners have complete control over their product listings, storefront design, and customer data.

Having access to customer data enables sellers to gain valuable insights into their target audience, establish direct relationships with customers, build email lists, and analyze essential metrics. This helps in reducing unnecessary expenses and optimizing product listings.

Shopify offers user-friendly templates and tools that allow sellers to create visually appealing storefronts without requiring technical expertise or coding skills. All eCommerce website functions can be conveniently managed through a single, intuitive dashboard.

The Shopify Shipping feature assists sellers in tracking and fulfilling orders through various mail classes and couriers like UPS and DHL.

Although the fulfillment process on Shopify is not as automated as platforms like Amazon FBA, the recent acquisition of Deliverr by Shopify may enhance fulfillment options in the future.

Furthermore, merchants have the opportunity to sell products in physical retail locations using Shopify POS, expanding their reach beyond online channels.

Related: How To Avoid The Negative Effects Of A Shopify Store Rebrand

Benefits of Buying a Shopify Store

When starting a business on Shopify, there is a significant amount of setup and groundwork required before you can begin generating income. However, by purchasing an established Shopify business, you can bypass these initial challenges and start earning revenue immediately.

By acquiring an existing Shopify business, you inherit a ready-made brand name and identity. The business will already have a professionally designed and branded website, saving you the time and effort of creating one from scratch. Additionally, the business may have already built a level of brand recognition and customer loyalty, which is a valuable asset that takes time to develop.

Furthermore, purchasing an existing Shopify store often means that the complexities of inventory management have already been addressed. You can benefit from established production processes, a reliable supply chain, established relationships with suppliers, and existing storage solutions.

In essence, buying an established Shopify store with a proven business model eliminates many of the risks and obstacles typically faced by new businesses. It provides a solid foundation for success and minimizes the challenges associated with starting from scratch.

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Downsides of Buying a Shopify Business

Like any business venture, there are certain challenges associated with owning a Shopify store. One of the main areas that requires understanding is the backend of the platform.

When starting a new store, the backend is essentially a blank canvas that needs to be customized by the seller. However, with an established Shopify business, the backend becomes more complex as it is already tailored with various apps, integrations, and plugins.

Another hurdle for Shopify owners is marketing. Unlike marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, Shopify does not connect sellers directly to shoppers. As a Shopify store owner, you are responsible for driving organic traffic to your listings through tactics such as SEO optimization and creating marketing campaigns on platforms like Google ads, Facebook ads, and social media.

Purchasing an existing store with a recognizable brand and domain name may limit your ability to put your own unique spin on the products. Rebranding is an option, but it carries its own risks.

It is crucial to conduct thorough research and due diligence when buying a business to avoid unpleasant surprises in the future. Keep in mind that no business is perfect, and you may encounter challenges like copyright issues or an inefficient supply chain. However, these obstacles can be transformed into opportunities for growth.

Lastly, by acquiring an established store, you may miss out on certain learning experiences, such as understanding product-market fit, sourcing suppliers, or creating logistics management systems from scratch.

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Who Should Buy a Shopify Store

Buying an existing Shopify store can be a valuable opportunity for established business owners looking to expand their portfolios.

For instance, if you already own a website in the sports niche, acquiring a Shopify store that sells sports equipment allows you to leverage your existing audience and grow the business further. Similarly, if you have an Amazon store, purchasing a Shopify store provides an additional sales channel without starting from scratch.

Compared to other marketplaces like Amazon, Shopify offers more independence to sellers with fewer rules and restrictions. While this flexibility allows entrepreneurs to have more control, it also means they don’t have the safety net of fulfillment and PPC campaigns that FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) sellers enjoy.

Therefore, buying a Shopify store may not be the best choice for first-time buyers.

However, if you’re willing to invest time in learning how to navigate the Shopify backend and tackle marketing challenges, starting with a Shopify dropshipping business can be a suitable option for newcomers.

In the dropshipping model, the seller identifies suppliers who handle manufacturing, storage, and order fulfillment. The seller’s role is to market the products and earn a portion of each sale. This approach eliminates concerns about logistics, allowing sellers to focus on other aspects of the business.

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How To Buy Shopify Stores?

When it comes to purchasing a Shopify store, you typically have two options: a private sale or utilizing an online marketplace.

Private sales can be faster; however, finding available Shopify stores for sale independently can be quite difficult.

Alternatively, using a marketplace or working with a broker grants you access to a wide range of Shopify businesses that are up for sale, simplifying and streamlining the process.

Acquiring an existing Shopify store can serve as a fantastic catalyst for launching your online business. Here are the steps you should follow:

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Determine Your Budget:

Before embarking on the purchase of a Shopify store, establish a budget that takes into account factors like the store’s age, revenue, and traffic, as these can greatly influence the price.

Locate a Reputable Marketplace:

There are several online marketplaces where you can find Shopify stores for sale, such as Shopify Exchange, Flippa, and Empire Flippers. Choose a reliable platform with a solid reputation and a diverse selection of stores.

Select a Profitable Store:

Look for a store that is already generating income and has a proven track record of success. Verify its profitability and growth potential by examining financial records and traffic data.

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Negotiate the Sale:

Once you have identified a suitable store, engage in negotiations with the seller to determine the terms of the transaction. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional to ensure the contract is legally sound.

Transfer Ownership:

After the transaction is finalized, the seller will transfer ownership of the business to you. You will need to create and connect a new Shopify account to take over the existing store.

It is crucial to approach the purchase of an existing Shopify store with careful planning and thorough investigation. Buyers should assess the store’s growth potential and alignment with their business goals by closely examining financials, traffic sources, and customer base. Additionally, discussions around the sale terms should be conducted with care, and seeking legal guidance is recommended to ensure a secure and smooth transaction.

By following these steps, you can acquire an existing Shopify store and kickstart your online business with a competitive advantage.

Related: Why Is Shopify So Expensive?

List Of Websites That Sells Shopify Stores For Sale

Looking to purchase a pre-built Shopify store? Explore these websites that offer a variety of e-commerce businesses for sale.

Flippa:

Flippa’s Exchange Marketplace is a popular platform that features a wide range of businesses for sale, including Shopify stores. The platform provides comprehensive details about each business, such as revenue, traffic, profit margins, and other relevant metrics, enabling buyers to assess their potential. Additionally, it offers filtering options to refine search results based on listing status, revenue, asset type, industry, and more. Buyers can directly communicate with sellers and negotiate sale terms. Flippa’s Exchange Marketplace also offers valuable resources and tools, including due diligence checklists, valuation tools, and transaction management assistance.

Empire Flippers:

Empire Flippers specializes in selling profitable and established online businesses, including Shopify stores. Their platform showcases various e-commerce businesses, ranging from dropshipping stores to private label brands. Detailed information about each business, including revenue, traffic, profit margins, and other relevant metrics, helps buyers evaluate their potential. Empire Flippers provides resources and tools to support buyers and sellers throughout the buying and selling process. The platform has built a strong reputation for its reliability and trustworthiness, having facilitated successful business transactions over the years.

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Acquire:

Formerly known as MicroAcquire, Acquire is an online marketplace that facilitates the acquisition of small businesses, including Shopify stores. They offer a diverse selection of businesses for sale, including startups, SaaS companies, and e-commerce businesses. Acquire provides detailed information about each business, including revenue, traffic, profit margins, and other relevant metrics, aiding buyers in their evaluation process. The platform offers resources and tools, including a unique valuation algorithm and attorney-verified purchase agreements, to assist buyers and sellers.

WebsiteClosers:

WebsiteClosers is a mergers and acquisitions firm specializing in selling e-commerce businesses, including Shopify stores. Their experienced advisors provide valuation, due diligence, and negotiation services. Detailed business information and transparent due diligence processes ensure a reliable transaction. WebsiteClosers offers a range of resources and tools for buyers and sellers, including valuation, business planning, and exit strategy development tools. As a trusted advisor, WebsiteClosers serves as a reliable resource for buying and selling online businesses, including Shopify stores.

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FE International:

FE International is a leading investment bank offering merger and acquisition (M&A) advisory services for online businesses, including Shopify stores. They focus on selling profitable and established online businesses and have a team of experienced advisors to guide clients through the buying and selling process. FE International provides comprehensive information about each business, including revenue, traffic, profit margins, and other relevant metrics, assisting buyers in their evaluation. The company has a strong reputation for reliability and trustworthiness, having facilitated numerous successful business transactions over the years. Overall, FE International is an excellent resource for purchasing or selling online businesses, including Shopify stores.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Shopify Business

There is a vast selection of Shopify stores available for purchase, and it can be overwhelming to navigate through the options. To make the process easier, consider the following factors to narrow down your choices:

What’s Your Budget?

Consider your available capital and remember to account for additional costs beyond the purchase price. Inventory may not be included in the sale, so set aside funds to replenish stock. Also, factor in Shopify platform fees and subscription costs. If you plan to grow the business immediately, allocate funds for marketing campaigns, product development, and launches.

Why Is the Business Being Sold?

Before committing to a purchase, communicate with the seller to gain insight into why they are selling the business. While some sellers may simply need capital for other ventures, others may be facing underlying problems that they are unable to resolve. Make sure to have a thorough conversation to uncover any potential issues, such as legal concerns or intense competition within the niche.

Why Do You Want to Buy a Store?

Determine your goals and reasons for wanting to buy a store. If you aim to replace your income, purchasing a proven and profitable Shopify store would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a side-hustle, platforms like Amazon FBA might be more suitable. For content site owners looking to expand into eCommerce, Shopify integration with your existing website is an advantage. Understanding your motivations will also help you decide whether building a business from scratch or buying an existing one aligns better with your goals.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and make a more informed decision when purchasing a Shopify store.

Conclusion: Shopify Stores For Sale

I hope that my comprehensive article on purchasing Shopify stores has provided you with all the necessary information before making a decision. Acquiring a Shopify store presents an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors seeking to enter or expand in the e-commerce industry.

As mentioned earlier, various marketplaces offer a wide selection of Shopify stores for sale. These reputable platforms furnish in-depth details about each business, encompassing revenue, traffic, profit margins, and other relevant metrics. This information enables potential buyers to assess the potential of a particular business accurately.

However, it is essential to emphasize the importance of conducting thorough research before finalizing any purchase. Not every available business will align with your priorities and objectives. Only through diligent and careful evaluation can a Shopify store be considered a prudent and worthwhile investment.

You Don’t Have to Go Through the Buying Process Alone

While the process of buying a Shopify store can be summarized in a few steps, it is important to recognize that it involves more complexity and emotional significance. Acquiring a business is a significant decision that can have a profound impact on your finances and professional reputation. Therefore, it is advisable to seek guidance from a qualified professional who can assist you throughout the entire process.

Our team of experienced sales advisors understands the importance of considering your unique requirements. They will carefully assess your needs and recommend Shopify stores that align with your specific criteria.

If you are eager to embark on the search for your ideal Shopify store, we encourage you to create an account on our marketplace. By doing so, you will gain access to valuable tools and features that will assist you in narrowing down your search and bring you closer to realizing your goal of becoming a Shopify business owner.

FAQs: Shopify Stores For Sale

What are the price ranges for Shopify stores?

The prices of Shopify stores can vary significantly, with some available for as low as $50, while others can command prices exceeding $1 million.

What factors should I consider when purchasing a Shopify store?

When buying a Shopify store, it’s crucial to consider various data points about the business. These include revenue, traffic, profit margins, customer reviews, and any other relevant details that can provide insights into the potential of the business.

How do I determine the value of a Shopify store for sale?

Valuing a Shopify store can be a complex task, as multiple factors must be taken into account. The value of a Shopify store is typically determined by considering its revenue, profit margins, growth prospects, as well as other factors like customer base, inventory, and intellectual property.

What level of support can I expect from the seller after acquiring a Shopify store?

The level of support you can expect from the seller after purchasing a Shopify store can vary. It depends on the specific seller and the terms agreed upon during the sale. Some sellers may offer training and ongoing support for a limited period, while others may provide minimal assistance.

Can I customize a Shopify store once I’ve purchased it?

Absolutely! After acquiring a Shopify store, you have the freedom to customize it according to your preferences. You can make changes to the design, introduce new products, and implement different marketing strategies to align with your business goals.

Are there any risks involved in buying a Shopify store?

Like any business investment, there can be risks associated with buying a Shopify store. Conducting thorough research on the business is crucial before making a purchase. Working with reputable sellers and brokers can help mitigate risks and provide a more secure transaction process.