ChatGPT Will Charge 4% to Shopify Stores: What It Means for Your eCommerce
Starting January 26, 2026, ChatGPT will implement a 4% fee on sales generated to Shopify...
The best Shopify agencies in 2026 are specialized companies focused on development, design, migration, and optimization of online stores. They hold Shopify Partner certification and proven experience in global ecommerce markets.
Top 10 Shopify Agencies Worldwide 2026
1. Codefy
Location: International
Specialties: Shopify store development and optimization, platform migrations, custom automations, technical and on-page SEO.
Website: codefy.com.mx
2. Disco
Location: London, UK
Specialties: Shopify Plus development, headless commerce solutions, custom app development, enterprise-level integrations, conversion rate optimization.
Website: disco.co
3. We Make Websites
Location: London, UK & New York, USA
Specialties: Shopify Plus implementation, custom theme development, performance optimization, UX/UI design, technical SEO for ecommerce.
Website: wemakewebsites.com
4. Eastside Co
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Specialties: Shopify Plus for high-growth brands, custom development, strategic consulting, conversion optimization, ongoing support and maintenance.
Website: eastsideco.com
5. Velstar
Location: London, UK
Specialties: Shopify Plus development, CRO and A/B testing, custom integrations, performance optimization, data-driven ecommerce strategies.
Website: velstar.co.uk
6. Blend Commerce
Location: California, USA
Specialties: Shopify Plus implementation, headless commerce, custom app development, ERP and CRM integrations, omnichannel solutions.
Website: blendcommerce.com
7. Swanky
Location: New York, USA
Specialties: Shopify Plus for enterprise brands, custom theme development, third-party integrations, migration services, ongoing optimization.
Website: swanky.com
8. Kubix
Location: Toronto, Canada
Specialties: Shopify development and design, custom functionality, platform migrations, marketing automation, conversion-focused strategies.
Website: kubixmedia.com
9. Pixel Union
Location: Victoria, Canada
Specialties: Premium Shopify theme development, custom store design, brand identity, user experience optimization, theme customization services.
Website: pixelunion.net
10. eCohete
Location: International
Specialties: Shopify store setup and launch, email marketing with Klaviyo and Mailchimp, migrations from legacy platforms.
Website: ecohete.com
What is a Shopify Agency?
A Shopify agency is a team of certified experts who develop, design, and optimize online stores on Shopify. They combine technical knowledge and strategic design to build stores that convert.
Key benefits: Technical expertise in Liquid and APIs, conversion-optimized design, secure migration without data loss, ongoing support, and time savings.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Agency
1. Experience and portfolio: Request success stories in your industry and review active stores.
2. Shopify Partner certification: Guarantees access to exclusive resources and up-to-date knowledge.
3. Specialized services: Verify they offer development, UX/UI design, migrations, SEO, and integrations.
4. Clear communication: Ask about methodology, response times, and change management.
Core Services
Development and customization: Liquid development, custom sections, and performance optimization.
UX/UI design: Experiences that facilitate navigation and increase conversion.
Platform migration: Secure transfer from WooCommerce, Magento, PrestaShop with products, customers, orders, and URLs.
SEO and marketing: Technical optimization, Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and email marketing.
Enterprise integrations: Connection with ERPs (SAP, NetSuite) and CRMs (Salesforce).
Pricing and Work Models
| Project Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Basic store | 2-4 weeks |
| Custom store | 6-12 weeks |
| Complete migration | 4-8 weeks |
| Shopify Plus | 12-20 weeks |
Payment models: One-time project (payment for complete development), Monthly retainer (ongoing support), or Hybrid (project + maintenance).
Common Mistakes
Choosing based on price alone: The lowest price can cost you more with poor-quality code.
Not verifying portfolio: Request verifiable cases and client references.
Ignoring post-launch support: Make sure you understand what's included and additional costs.
Not defining scope: Document deliverables and timeline before starting.
Checklist Before Hiring
- ☐ Are they certified Shopify Partners?
- ☐ Do they have experience in my industry?
- ☐ Can they show active stores?
- ☐ What does support include?
- ☐ What is the timeline?
- ☐ Do they offer training?
- ☐ How do they handle migrations?
- ☐ Does it include conversion optimization?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Shopify agency do?
They develop, design, and optimize online stores on Shopify. They offer migration, customization, SEO, app integration, and ongoing support.
How much does it cost to hire an agency?
It varies by project. Basic stores are more affordable, custom projects require larger budgets. Most agencies offer personalized quotes.
How do I choose the best agency?
Verify Shopify Partner certification, review portfolio in your industry, request references, and ensure they understand your goals.
How long does it take to develop a store?
Basic stores: 2-4 weeks. Custom projects: 6-12 weeks. Migrations: 4-8 weeks.
Do they offer support after launch?
Yes, most agencies offer support plans with updates, maintenance, and optimizations.
Can I migrate from another platform?
Yes, agencies migrate from WooCommerce, Magento, PrestaShop including products, customers, orders, and URLs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Shopify agency makes the difference between an average store and a successful ecommerce business. The 10 agencies presented offer distinct specializations: technical development, UX/UI design, enterprise solutions, and integrated marketing.
Consider your budget, the specialization you need, and the quality of support. Contact the agencies that best align with your needs and choose the ideal partner for your ecommerce success.
