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Shopify Multiple Languages – 6 Ways to Build a Multilingual Shopify Store

By August 4, 2023Blog8 min read
Shopify Multiple Languages

Imagine you have a thriving online business with customers from all around the world. You’re proud of the products you offer and the excellent customer service you provide. However, there’s one obstacle that stands in the way of reaching an even wider audience: language barriers. This is where creating a multilingual Shopify store such as Shopify multiple languages, can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore six effective ways to build a multilingual Shopify store and tap into the global market.

What Is A Multi-Language Shopify Store?

A multi-language Shopify store is an e-commerce website that offers its content, products, and services in multiple languages. By providing localized content, you can cater to the needs and preferences of customers from various regions and enhance their shopping experience. With a multilingual store, you can remove language barriers, establish a connection with your target audience, and increase your sales potential.

Does Shopify Support Multiple Languages?

Yes, Shopify supports multiple languages. In fact, it supports up to 20 different languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and many more. By default, the platform allows you to set your store’s primary language, which affects the admin interface. Additionally, you can use translation apps, themes, and other tools to localize your Shopify store and offer content in various languages.

Why Having Shopify Multiple Languages in Your Store is Essential for Success?

Research shows that approximately 65% of consumers prefer to browse and purchase products in their native language. By offering a multilingual shopping experience, you can cater to these language preferences and build trust with potential customers. Furthermore, with Shopify’s global presence in over 175 countries, having a multilingual store becomes crucial for expanding your business internationally and connecting with a broader customer base.

Can I Translate My Shopify Store?

Yes, you can translate your Shopify store. There are several effective ways to achieve this, which we will explore in detail. Whether you choose to utilize built-in language tools, multilingual themes, apps, or professional translation services, you can adapt your store’s content to different languages and create a seamless multilingual experience for your customers.

6 Ways to Build a Multilingual Shopify Store:

1- Use Shopify’s Built-In Language Tools:

Shopify offers built-in language tools that enable you to translate your store’s content effortlessly. By using Shopify’s templating language, you can create language-specific sections, menus, and pages. This allows you to customize your store’s appearance and provide a localized experience for each language.

2- Use a Shopify Multilingual Theme:

Another way to build a multilingual Shopify store is by giving the option for “Shopify change theme language in a dedicated multilingual theme. These themes are specifically designed to support multiple languages and offer features like language switchers, customizable translations, and localized layouts. By choosing a multilingual theme, you can save time and effort in setting up your store’s language functionality.

3- Use a Multilingual Shopify App:

If you prefer a more flexible approach, you can use a multilingual Shopify apps. The Shopify App Store offers a wide range of translation apps that can help you translate your store’s content efficiently. 

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4- Use a Third-Party Translation Service:

If you have a large store or complex content, you might consider hiring a third-party translation service. These services have professional translators who can accurately translate your product descriptions, blog posts, and other important content. While this option may require additional investment, it ensures high-quality translations that resonate well with your target audience.

5- Create Multiple Stores:

Creating multiple stores, each dedicated to a specific language, is another approach to building a multilingual Shopify store. With this method, you can have separate stores for each language, allowing you to customize the content, layout, and marketing strategies for each target market. However, managing multiple stores can be more time-consuming and require extra effort to keep them synchronized.

6- Hire a Development Agency to Create Custom Language Solutions:

For more complex language requirements and custom functionality, hiring a development agency can be a great option. A skilled agency can create tailored language solutions for your Shopify store, ensuring a seamless multilingual experience for your customers. They can build custom language switchers, implement advanced translation features, and provide ongoing support for your language-related needs.

Managing Your Shopify Store Languages:

Once you’ve established your multilingual Shopify store, it’s important to manage your store’s languages effectively. Here are a few best practices to consider:

  • Regularly update and optimize your translated content to ensure accuracy and relevancy.
  • Test your language functionality thoroughly to identify and fix any issues promptly.
  • Monitor customer feedback and implement improvements based on their suggestions.
  • Stay updated with the latest language-related apps and features in the Shopify ecosystem.
  • Consider using Shopify’s language analytics to track customer behavior and optimize your store’s performance.

Shopify in Multiple Languages – Translate Text and Products:

When building a multilingual Shopify store, it’s not just the interface that needs translation. Your product descriptions, tags, and metadata also play a crucial role in attracting customers. By translating these elements, you can improve your store’s visibility in search engines and make it easier for customers to find what they’re looking for. Utilize the best translation apps available to streamline the translation process and ensure accurate and efficient translation of your texts and products.

Benefits of Creating a Multi-Language Shopify Store:

Building a multilingual Shopify store offers numerous benefits for your business, including:

  1. Increased Reach: By offering your store in multiple languages, you can reach a broader audience and tap into new markets.
  2. Improved User Experience: Providing content in customers’ native languages enhances their experience and increases their trust in your brand.
  3. Higher Conversion Rates: When customers can access information and make purchases in their preferred language, it reduces barriers and improves conversion rates.
  4. Enhanced SEO: Translating your content and optimizing it for different languages can boost your store’s visibility in search engine results, attracting more organic traffic.
  5. Competitive Advantage: Offering a multilingual shopping experience sets you apart from competitors and positions your brand as customer-centric and globally focused.

Examples of Multilingual Shopify Stores:

To inspire you, here are a few examples of successful multilingual Shopify stores:

  • Suture.ch: This store offers its products in multiple languages, allowing customers to browse in English / German and make purchases in their preferred language. With a user-friendly language switcher and localized content, Suture.ch has expanded its customer base globally.
  • Elucx: Elucx uses a multilingual theme that provides seamless language switching between English / Spanish and translated product descriptions. The store has seen a significant increase in international sales and positive customer feedback.

Create a Multi-Language Shopify Store with Swishtag:

If you’re looking for an efficient way to create a multilingual Shopify store, consider using Swishtag. Swishtag is a powerful Shopify development Agency that helps you simplify the translation process and allows you to localize your content with ease. With features like automatic translation, customizable language switchers, and SEO optimization, Swishtag can help you build a multilingual store that resonates with your global audience.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I add 2 languages at the same time in Shopify? 

Yes, Shopify allows you to add and manage multiple languages simultaneously, providing a seamless multilingual experience for your customers.

Is Shopify multilingual? 

Yes, Shopify supports multiple languages and offers various tools and apps to help you create a multilingual store.

Which languages does Shopify support? 

Shopify supports up to 20 different languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and many more.

How do I add multiple languages to my website? 

You can add multiple languages to your website by using Shopify’s built-in language tools, multilingual themes, translation apps, translation services, creating multiple stores, or hiring a development agency.

Final Words:

Creating stores with the Shopify multiple languages option opens up a world of opportunities for your business. By breaking down language barriers, you can engage with a wider audience, boost customer satisfaction, and increase your sales potential. Whether you choose to use Shopify’s built-in language tools, multilingual themes, apps, or translation services, it’s essential to provide a seamless and localized experience for your customers. Embrace the power of multilingualism, and watch your Shopify store thrive in the global market.