Shopify Functions is set to take over from its predecessor, Shopify Scripts, introducing a more scalable and flexible way to customise Shopify stores. In this post, we explore what this means for DTC retailers and how Shopify Functions can enhance ecommerce operations.
What is Shopify Functions?
Shopify Functions allows developers to create custom, serverless functions to extend Shopify's capabilities beyond its default settings. Built on WebAssembly (Wasm), Shopify Functions runs directly within Shopify’s infrastructure, ensuring seamless performance, security, and scalability.
Unlike Shopify Scripts, which required Shopify Plus and manual implementation via Liquid and Ruby, Shopify Functions is deployed via Shopify Apps, making it more accessible and future-proof.
How Does Shopify Functions Work?
Shopify Functions allows developers to create custom logic using Rust (compiled to WebAssembly). These functions are event-driven and execute automatically within Shopify’s ecosystem, offering a more robust alternative to Scripts.
- Triggered by Shopify Events – Functions execute in response to events like checkout, cart updates, or order creation.
- Deployed via Apps – Functions are packaged as Shopify Apps, making them easier to install, update, and distribute.
- Optimised for Performance – Running natively within Shopify means faster execution, better stability, and improved security.
Who Can Benefit from Shopify Functions?
Shopify Functions is designed for businesses and developers who need more control and flexibility over their Shopify store’s functionality.
🔹 Developers
For developers, Shopify Functions provides a scalable, high-performance framework to build and deploy custom ecommerce logic. With WebAssembly support, it offers a faster, more efficient way to extend Shopify’s capabilities.
🔹 SMEs & Growth-Stage Brands
Small and medium-sized businesses that need custom pricing rules, product bundles, or advanced shipping logic can now extend Shopify without upgrading to Shopify Plus.
🔹 Complex Business Models
Businesses with subscription models, wholesale pricing, or tiered discounts can use Shopify Functions to create tailored solutions that go beyond Shopify’s standard settings.
The Benefits of Shopify Functions
- Scalability & Performance: Functions run natively on Shopify’s infrastructure, ensuring fast execution and minimal downtime.
- Flexibility & Customisation: Custom functions can be created for discounts, cart logic, checkout experiences, and more.
- Seamless Integration: Functions work with Shopify's API and can be deployed as apps, reducing compatibility issues.
- Automation & Efficiency: Automate tasks like dynamic pricing, conditional shipping rates, and unique payment options.
- Future-Proofing: Shopify is investing heavily in Functions, making it a long-term solution for advanced store customisation.
What Can You Do with Shopify Functions?
- Custom Discount Logic: Set up stackable discounts, conditional promotions, or volume-based pricing.
- Advanced Shipping Rates: Create location-based or weight-based shipping calculations.
- Checkout Customisations: Modify payment methods, restrict purchases by customer segment, or introduce loyalty-based pricing.
- Subscription Modifications: Offer dynamic pricing models or subscriber-exclusive discounts.
Conclusion: Why Shopify Functions Matters
Shopify Functions represents a major shift in how merchants and developers extend Shopify’s functionality. By moving away from Shopify Scripts and embracing WebAssembly-powered automation, Functions offers:
- ⚡ Faster execution compared to previous scripting methods.
- 🔒 More security & stability than manually coded scripts.
- 📦 Easier deployment through Shopify Apps.
- 🚀 More flexibility for custom ecommerce experiences.
For brands looking to optimise checkout experiences, introduce custom pricing, or streamline order processing, Shopify Functions is a must-explore tool.
Are you ready to future-proof your Shopify store? Start leveraging Shopify Functions today. 🚀