Creating a Webshop: A Guide to Successful Online Business

In today’s digital age, creating a webshop, as well as a website, is an essential part of modern business. With the growing number of online shoppers and increasing internet accessibility, an online store has become a key sales channel. If you’re planning to launch your own webshop, this guide will help you get started successfully.

There are many reasons to start a webshop, including:

• Lower operating costs – no rent, utilities, or large investments in physical space;
• 24/7 availability – sales are not limited by business hours;
• Wider audience – an unlimited number of customers from around the world;
• Easier promotion – digital marketing allows precise audience targeting.

According to research, the share of online retail in total retail continues to grow. By the end of 2023, e-commerce accounted for 20.1% of total global retail, and it is projected to reach 22.6% by 2027. In Croatia, the pandemic further accelerated the growth of online shopping, with a 13.9% increase in turnover in 2020.

Choosing a Product or Service

If you don’t yet have a specific product, the first step in starting a webshop is to define what you will sell.

Research the market and answer a few key questions:

• What do competitors offer?
• What are the prices and advantages of their products?
• Who are your target customers?

Your product must have a unique value that sets it apart from the competition.

Business Registration

Registering your business is mandatory for legal operations.

• Register your business at the commercial court (for legal entities) or the crafts register (for sole proprietors).
• Register your activity under the category of “information society services.”
• Familiarize yourself with laws such as the Trade Act, Consumer Protection Act, and other relevant regulations.

Fiscalization

If your webshop accepts cash payments (including card payments), you must connect to the fiscalization system. Obtain an application certificate through FINA and ensure that your business complies with regulations.

Minimum Technical Requirements (MTR)

To sell products through a webshop, especially if you use a warehouse, you must meet certain technical requirements:

• Minimum retail warehouse area: 6 m²
• Visible signage with the company name and address

If you operate via dropshipping, a warehouse is not required.

Web Hosting and Domain

Creating a webshop doesn’t just involve setting up content and listing products or services; initially, you need to choose the following:

• Domain – your name on the internet (e.g., shop.com)
• Web hosting – the server that makes your site accessible
• Page load speed – plays a key role in retaining visitors

Choosing a CMS Platform

A CMS (Content Management System) allows for easy management of your website. Popular options include:

• WooCommerce (WordPress) – flexible and ideal for beginners.
• Shopify – easy to use, but with limited customization options.
• Magento – for large and complex webshops.
• Drupal – for experienced developers.
• Joomla – for more complex websites.