Building an Online Store with Framer, Is It Right for You?

Introduction

Choosing the right platform for your online store can feel like a big decision, especially if you want something that looks great, loads quickly, and gives you complete control. While tools like Shopify and Wix are well-known options, many people are now turning to Framer as a modern, design-led alternative.

This is the third post in our ongoing blog series. If you missed the first two, you can read “Is Now the Right Time to Start an Online Shop?” and “What You Really Need to Launch an E-Commerce Website (and What You Don’t)” on the 53 Degrees North blog.

In this post, we will explore Framer’s e-commerce capabilities and help you decide whether it is the right platform for your shop. From design flexibility and seamless integrations to performance and scalability, we will break down what makes Framer a strong contender, and where it might not be the best fit.

Whether you are a designer, developer, or small business owner, this guide will give you a clear understanding of what Framer can offer your online store.

Who Should Consider Framer for E-Commerce?

Framer is no longer just a prototyping tool. It has grown into a capable platform for building online shops that are fast, scalable, and beautifully designed. But is it the right choice for your business? Let’s take a closer look at who stands to benefit most from Framer’s unique strengths.

A Great Fit for Designers, Developers, and Entrepreneurs

If you want complete creative control over your store’s layout, transitions, and shopping experience, Framer offers a powerful set of tools. It is especially well suited to:

• Designers who want to create without being confined by pre-built templates. Framer’s visual-first approach lets you design every detail, from product pages to interactive elements, without writing code (Framer).

• Entrepreneurs who want to launch a custom-branded shop quickly and efficiently. With drag-and-drop components and e-commerce templates like EverydayShop, you can get online fast without compromising quality.

• Developers who appreciate a low-code environment but still want the flexibility to integrate APIs or build custom logic when needed (Frameshop).

Whether you are creating your first online shop or scaling up from a basic setup, Framer combines creative freedom with practical functionality, all in one unified workspace.

Framer vs Traditional Platforms

Framer offers a different experience from platforms like Shopify or Wix. If your priority is:

• Bespoke design over pre-set structure

• Speed and agility in build and iteration

• A unified tool for design and development

Then Framer is well worth considering. Unlike traditional platforms, you are not locked into a theme or plugin ecosystem. You can build a storefront that reflects your brand exactly the way you want (Shopify, Frameship).

However, if your store requires advanced inventory systems, marketplace capabilities, or deep backend integrations, a more traditional platform may be better suited to your needs.

Why Choose Framer for Your Online Store

If you’re looking for a platform that combines beautiful design with modern e-commerce functionality, Framer makes a compelling case. Below, we break down the key reasons why it stands out for online store builders.

Custom Design Freedom

One of Framer’s biggest strengths is its unmatched design flexibility. Unlike traditional platforms that rely on fixed templates, Framer allows you to visually design every part of your site from homepage layouts to product cards and checkout flows.

You can easily implement interactive features, micro-animations, and custom shopping experiences that reflect your brand’s personality. Whether it’s gamified carts, hover previews, or unique product filters, Framer gives you the space to build creatively (Framer).

Seamless E-Commerce Integrations

Framer supports a growing range of integrations that make e-commerce functionality possible without relying on heavy development.

• Shopify: Sync your product catalogue, handle variants, and manage subscriptions using plugins like Frameship and Shopiframe. This approach lets you pair Shopify’s robust backend with Framer’s design flexibility.

• Stripe: Tools like Frameshop allow you to connect Framer’s CMS directly to Stripe, enabling secure, real-time payments and stock control without writing code.

• Ecwid: If you’re looking for an all-in-one, dashboard-managed experience, Ecwid for Framer provides simple product and cart functionality, plus support for selling on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and eBay.

These integrations make it easy to build a real, revenue-ready store inside Framer’s visual interface.

Ease of Use

Framer’s drag-and-drop editor and intuitive UI make it approachable for non-developers. You can start with pre-built e-commerce templates, modify components to fit your brand, and get a store live in a fraction of the time it might take with traditional tools.

For those with more experience, Framer’s low-code environment allows you to go deeper adding custom JavaScript, third-party tools, and APIs as needed (Framer Community).

Scalability and Performance

As your business grows, Framer can grow with you. It uses a component-based architecture, meaning you can update layouts and logic efficiently as your product catalogue evolves.

Framer also works well with headless CMSs like Contentful or Prismic, giving you more control over content management and scalability.

Fast load times, static site output, and clean code make Framer a strong performer when it comes to both user experience and search engine optimisation (Framer SEO Guide).

Extendable Features

Framer supports a growing list of features essential for modern e-commerce stores:

• Product variants and subscriptions, handled through Shopify sync (Shopify)

• Multi-currency support via Shopify Markets or custom region-aware logic

• Analytics integrations with Google Analytics, Meta Pixel, and more (Framer Commerce)

• Real-time stock updates using CMS or Stripe integrations (Frameshop)

• SEO tools and structured content, helping your store rank better with clean code and plugin support (SEO Plugins)

With the right setup, Framer can deliver a shopping experience that rivals much larger platforms.

What Can You Actually Build with Framer?

Framer isn’t just for landing pages or prototypes it’s fully capable of powering a complete, feature-rich e-commerce site. From custom storefronts to checkout flows, you can build a modern online shop with all the essentials in place.

The table below gives an at-a-glance overview of key e-commerce features and whether they’re supported in Framer, along with notes and references for further detail.

Framer may not offer every niche feature out-of-the-box, but with the right combination of plugins, integrations, and design logic, you can build a fully capable store tailored to your business goals.

Real-World Use & Community Trust

Framer’s e-commerce capabilities are not just theoretical. From well-known tech brands to independent creators, people are already using Framer to build fast, engaging, and visually stunning online stores.

Trusted by Brands Like Spotify and Perplexity

Companies such as Spotify and Perplexity AI have used Framer Commerce to build custom storefronts and interactive landing pages (Framer Commerce). These examples demonstrate that Framer is more than capable of supporting high-performance, high-traffic sites with custom e-commerce functionality.

The fact that these brands chose Framer reflects its maturity as a platform, particularly in areas like animation, layout freedom, and performance.

A Growing Plugin Marketplace and Community

Framer’s e-commerce ecosystem continues to expand, with more developers and designers contributing plugins, UI kits, and templates tailored for online selling. The Framer Marketplace includes:

• E-commerce plugins like Frameship, Frameshop, and Framer Commerce

• Fully designed templates such as EverydayShop

• UI kits and checkout components for faster builds

In addition, the Framer Community is an active space to get feedback, troubleshoot plugin issues, and explore real-world examples of what others are building.

Real Support, Real Results

Whether you are a solo maker or working as part of a team, you’ll find that Framer’s plugin ecosystem and community forums offer practical help when you need it. The increasing number of tutorials, walkthroughs, and case studies from YouTube creators to studio blogs makes it easier than ever to get started and scale confidently (YouTube Example).

My Experience: Building E-Commerce Stores in Framer

Having built several online stores using Framer, I can confidently say that it strikes a balance between creative freedom and functional reliability. What makes it especially powerful is how seamlessly it supports both design-first thinking and real-world e-commerce needs.

Design to Launch, All in One Place

One of the biggest advantages is the ability to design, build, and publish within the same platform. Unlike other workflows where designs are handed off to developers or limited by theme editors, Framer lets you build exactly what you design.

This means faster iterations, more creativity, and fewer compromises. You can add custom animations, dynamic filtering, and even gamified shopping flows without waiting on a third-party developer or plugin.

Custom Features That Just Work

Clients often want more than a standard product grid and checkout. With Framer, I’ve been able to implement:

• Dynamic product filters that respond to user preferences

• Personalised product recommendations based on CMS data

• Custom upsell modals and cart animations that create a more engaging experience

These kinds of enhancements are not just possible they are surprisingly straightforward to build using tools like Frameshop and Framer CMS, along with native animation controls.

Easy Content Management for Clients

Another key benefit is that clients don’t feel locked out of their site after handover. With either Framer’s built-in CMS or synced tools like Shopify via Shopiframe, they can:

• Add or update product information

• Manage availability and pricing

• Create landing pages or promo banners

All of this can be done without needing to contact a developer, which reduces support costs and gives clients more ownership of their shop.

Is Framer Not Right for You?

While Framer offers a powerful combination of design freedom and e-commerce functionality, it’s not the perfect fit for every business. There are situations where a more traditional or specialised platform may be a better option.

You Need Deep Backend or Inventory Management

If your online store depends on advanced backend features such as real-time stock syncing across multiple warehouses, ERP integration, or fulfillment systems, Framer may not offer this level of complexity out of the box. Platforms like Shopify Plus or BigCommerce are better suited to handling large product databases and logistics-heavy operations.

You Are Building a Marketplace or Multi-Vendor Platform

Framer is excellent for single-brand shops and direct-to-consumer storefronts, but it is not designed for multi-vendor use cases. If you need multiple seller logins, commission structures, and a layered product approval process, a dedicated marketplace platform like Sharetribe or Magento may be more appropriate.

You Require Advanced Permissions or Workflow Control

If your team needs detailed role management such as separating access for designers, content creators, marketers, and developers Framer’s current permission model may feel limited. Larger teams often benefit from platforms that support workflow approvals, versioning, and role-specific dashboards.

You Want Built-In Features Over Customisation

Some businesses prefer using plug-and-play themes, standard checkout flows, and baked-in settings with minimal setup. If that sounds like you, tools like Shopify or Wix might provide a quicker out-of-the-box launch, though with much less design control.

Resources to Explore Further

If you are curious to see how Framer handles real e-commerce projects, or you want to dive into specific tools and integrations, here are some trusted resources to help you explore further:

Official Plugins and Tools

• Framer Commerce Plugin – Add full Shopify functionality into your Framer project

• Frameshop – Sync your Framer CMS with Stripe for real-time products and secure payments

• Frameship – Integrate Framer with Shopify, including variants, subscriptions, and checkout tools

• Shopiframe – A lightweight Shopify to Framer plugin that supports embedded product data and custom layouts

• Ecwid for Framer – Fast shopping cart integration with multichannel sales support

Tutorials and Blog Posts

• How to Build an E-Commerce Shop with Framer and Shopify – Step-by-step guide from Frameblox

• Building an E-Commerce Store with Framer: Pros and Cons – Independent breakdown of Framer’s e-commerce potential

Video Walkthroughs

• Can Framer Handle E-Commerce? – Overview of Framer Commerce on YouTube

• Build an E-Commerce Site in Framer (Shopify Plugin) – Integration walkthrough and setup

• Framer E-Commerce with CMS – Using Framer’s native CMS to create a product catalogue

Community and Support

• Framer Community Forum – Ask questions, get plugin support, and find inspiration

• Framer Marketplace – Browse templates, components, and e-commerce-specific UI kits

Whether you're planning your first online shop or refining a complex build, these tools and guides will give you the insights and support you need to make informed decisions.

Final Thoughts: Should You Choose Framer?

If your priority is a custom, visually engaging, and modern online store, Framer is absolutely worth considering. It gives you full creative control, seamless integration with tools like Shopify and Stripe, and a fast, flexible development experience even if you’re not a developer.

Framer works best when:

• You value design freedom over rigid templates

• You want to launch quickly but with high polish and performance

• You need a store that reflects your unique brand identity

• You are comfortable with (or excited by) a slightly more hands-on setup

However, if your business relies heavily on complex logistics, warehouse syncing, or multi-vendor support, a traditional platform may serve you better.

For creative businesses, independent brands, and design-led teams, Framer offers one of the most exciting and empowering ways to launch an online store today.

Ready to Build Something Beautiful?

If Framer sounds like a good fit for your online store, we’d love to help.

At 53 Degrees North, we specialise in lean, modern e-commerce builds using Framer. Whether you need a one-page shop to get started or a fully customised storefront with advanced features, we’ll help you launch something you’re proud of.

👉 Explore our E-Commerce Store package  👉 Or get in touch to book a free consultation and talk through your goals.

Your store should be as bold and unique as your brand. Let’s make it happen.