Technical wholesaler.
We migrated a technical wholesaler that had been running on OpenCart for years to a fast, scalable B2B webshop on Magento Open Source with Hyvä.
Overview
This technical wholesaler supplies tools, safety equipment and supplies to business customers. With decades of experience, a broad range of brands and a large stock assortment, expert advice is never far away.
The wholesaler had been running on OpenCart for years, but the platform was outdated and straining at every seam. Further development was barely possible. So we looked more broadly and the choice fell on Magento Open Source.
The choice for elgentos came out of open and honest conversations, in which our expertise in both technical and B2B areas was decisive.
Challenges & goals
The old website was quite slow, so speed was a major focus. We immediately opted for Hyvä, allowing us to set up a very fast site with relatively little effort. Another challenge was migrating the existing data, such as customers, orders and product data.
As a wholesaler, this client has many business customers. For these B2B customers, the wholesaler wanted to add specific functionalities, such as different permission levels in the order flow, customer-specific pricing and an OCI Punchout connection for large customers.
The wholesaler also wanted to simplify the entry of product data and improve the management of content pages through a CMS.
Solution & implementation
In modernising the online environment, a fast and stable website was essential. To achieve this, we migrated the webshop to Magento Open Source, using Hyvä theme technology. Hyvä offers a lightweight, efficient front-end that significantly improves load times. This choice immediately resulted in a noticeable speed gain, which was crucial given the high expectations of business customers.
Data migration
One of the biggest challenges was migrating the existing data. The customer database, orders and detailed product information had to be transferred completely and correctly to the new platform. We planned and executed this carefully, so that no data was lost and all customer information was correct after migration. We also ensured that passwords from OpenCart were carried over to Magento, so customers did not have to reactivate their account with a new password.
B2B functionalities
Given the business nature, there was a strong focus on B2B-specific functionality. For instance, we implemented company accounts, allowing different employees of one client organisation to place and approve orders with their own permissions. In addition, we set up customer-specific pricing so that each company sees the prices agreed for them. These prices are pulled directly from the ERP system. For large customers, we added an OCI Punchout integration, enabling them to order directly from their own system into the webshop. This increases efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Integrations
Given the large assortment and the complexity of the business processes, seamless integrations with the existing systems were essential. We connected the ERP system (AGP Trade by Kerridge Commercial Systems) to keep stock and prices up to date at all times. The integration with BarTrack provides accurate barcode registration and inventory management. In addition, we set up a PIM connection with Skwirrel to streamline and centralise product information management. This allows the wholesaler to manage and update product data quickly and efficiently, which is crucial for such an extensive assortment.
Hyvä React Checkout
To further optimise the user experience, we opted for the Hyvä React Checkout. This fast and user-friendly checkout ensures a smooth and quick checkout process, which not only increases conversion but also reduces the number of abandoned carts.
CMS and content management
Finally, we paid attention to better content management. The new CMS, integrated into Magento, makes it easier to manage and adjust content pages without technical knowledge. This makes the platform more flexible and allows the wholesaler to respond quickly to changes and customer requests.
Implementation
We carried out these solutions in a phased process, working closely with the wholesaler and the third parties involved. The migration from OpenCart to Magento Open Source took six months, with a strong emphasis on minimal downtime and a smooth transition. Throughout the process, we tested regularly to ensure everything functioned properly and the user experience remained optimal.
By combining a fast site, seamless data migration, advanced B2B functionality and strong integrations with existing systems, the wholesaler now has a future-proof online environment that aligns with their growth strategy and customer expectations.
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