The best retail app development services, how much they cost, top app development features, and how you stand to benefit from using app development companies. This guide will cover them all.
Retail apps are mobile apps designed to help retailers and brands connect with customers, improve shopping experiences, and manage sales. They provide a digital storefront where users can browse products and purchase them straight from their mobile devices. Retail apps cater to both the online and in-store shopping experience, and many are designed to combine both of these.
The importance of developing retail apps speaks for itself. The market size of the retail app industry was $3.8 trillion in 2023, an increase of 8% from the previous year. This is expected to double by the end of the decade, led by maturing markets in South-East Asia and Latin America.
Yet building and developing successful retail apps requires a number of must-have features to be implemented.
Top Retail App Developers
For example, advanced filters that allow users to filter by category, price, brand, and ratings, as well as real-time stock updates so your customers know whether items are in (or out) of stock.
That’s without mentioning the importance of encrypted and secure payment gateways to protect user data. In other words, it can be tough to know where to start if you’re entering the world of retail app development.
Don’t fret; we’ll cover everything you need to know.
What is retail app development?
Retail app development is the process of designing, creating, and deploying mobile apps for retail businesses. The apps are built to provide a convenient and personalized shopping experience for customers on their mobile devices.
Retail app development combines aspects of eCommerce, digital marketing, user experience design (known as UX), and advanced tech like AI, machine learning, and augmented reality (known as AR).
Retail app developer example
Source: Pixelfield
Retail app development starts with understanding the market, the target audience, and your competition. Market research helps define the app’s features, target user base, and USPs to stand out from your competitors.
The most effective retail apps focus on intuitive navigation, ease of use, and visually appealing interfaces. The UI design is key to keeping users engaged, making it easy for them to browse, add items to their cart, and complete purchases.
What is an example of a retail app?
Retail apps come in many different forms, with both mobile and web platforms catering to different needs. The key apps typically include the following:
- Amazon (B2C): Allows consumers to shop for a wide range of products, from electronics to clothing, with options for order tracking, product recommendations, and customer reviews
- Nike (B2C): This app allows consumers to shop for athletic products and access personalized workout recommendations, exclusive member rewards, and early access to new product launches
- Walmart (B2C): Offers a wide range of products with options for online purchase, in-store pickup, and grocery delivery. Includes features like store maps and inventory checks
- IKEA (B2C): Allows consumers to browse and shop for furniture and home goods, with an AR feature for seeing how products look in their space
- Costco (B2C and B2B): Allows individual members and business account holders to purchase products in bulk with member-only pricing. Businesses can buy supplies
- Grainger (B2B): Provides commercial equipment and supplies for businesses. Includes inventory management features and allows bulk purchases with business pricing
Retail app developer example
Source: EPAM
Keep in mind that most retail apps are B2C and aim to reach individual users, but they often incorporate B2B features or business models that diversify revenue streams.
The ultimate aim, of course, is to pick the right retail app for you, so take the time to get this part right.
App Development Companies Buyers guide
Download our App Development Companies Buyers guide to get a full list of the best service providers on the market to choose from. You will also learn about types of app developers, different app development platforms, app developer locations, app development costs, how to select the right one for your business, as well as the questions to ask any of those companies you will be evaluating.
What does a retail app development company do?
A retail app development company specializes in creating custom mobile apps that are tailored for businesses, enabling them to reach customers, streamline shopping experiences, and boost sales through mobile platforms.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what these companies typically do:
1. Market research and strategy planning
A retail app development company begins with thorough market research and strategy planning to understand the client’s goals, target audience, and competitive landscape.
This research phase includes identifying customer preferences, competitor strengths and weaknesses, and current trends in the retail industry.
2. User experience and user interface design
Once the strategy is clear, the development company moves to design the app’s user experience and user interface. This involves creating a visually appealing, intuitive design that provides a seamless user journey from browsing products to completing purchases.
Design experts work to balance aesthetics with usability, creating a layout that simplifies navigation and enhances overall engagement.
Retail app developer example
Source: Vincit
3. Core development and feature integration
In this phase, the company’s developers work on building the app’s core functionality, focusing on features like product catalogues, shopping carts, payment processing, and order tracking.
They also incorporate more advanced features, such as personalized recommendations, push notifications, and loyalty programs.
4. Testing and quality assurance
Before releasing the app, it undergoes rigorous testing and quality assurance to identify and resolve any issues. The QA team tests the app’s functionality, security, and performance, ensuring it works under various scenarios, including high traffic and different user behaviours.
They also test for device compatibility, usability, and data security. Testing includes both automated and manual processes.
5. Launch, maintenance, and ongoing support
Once testing is complete, the company assists with the app’s launch on platforms like the App Store and Google Play Store, handling all necessary submissions and compliance requirements.
Following the launch, the development company provides ongoing maintenance and support, including updates for new OS versions, bug fixes, and feature enhancements.
How do retail apps work?
Retail apps function as a digital platform for consumers to browse, select, and purchase products (or services) from retail businesses directly from their mobile devices. At their core, these apps connect users to a vast product catalogue, which is often organized into categories and subcategories for easy navigation.
Once users find products they wish to purchase, they can add these items to their shopping cart. The shopping cart functionality allows users to view selected items, adjust quantities, or remove items as needed before proceeding to checkout. The checkout process is streamlined for convenience, often allowing users to save payment information for one-click purchasing.
Payment options may include credit and debit cards, digital wallets, and, in some cases, buy-now-pay-later services.
Retail app developer example
Source: Saffron Tech
In addition to facilitating purchases, retail apps often include features that enhance customer engagement and loyalty. For instance, users may receive personalized recommendations based on their shopping habits, notifications about sales or promotions, and access to exclusive deals for app users.
On the backend, retail apps are supported by key infrastructure that manages product inventory, user accounts, and transaction processing. Integration with inventory management systems ensures that product availability is reflected in the app, reducing the chances of customers ordering out-of-stock items.
Top Retail App Developers
What are the benefits of retail app development?
Developing a retail app offers numerous advantages for businesses, enhancing their visibility, engagement, and profitability in a highly competitive digital landscape.
Here are some of the key benefits of retail app development:
1. Enhanced customer engagement
Retail app development significantly enhances customer engagement by providing a direct communication channel between the retailer and the consumer.
Through personalized notifications, promotions, and targeted marketing strategies, retailers can reach customers with relevant offers and updates.
2. Improved shopping experience
A well-designed retail app offers a seamless and user-friendly shopping experience.
Features such as intuitive navigation, advanced search filters, and high-quality product images allow customers to easily browse and find products that meet their needs.
3. Increased sales and revenue
Retail apps can drive significant increases in sales and revenue. The mobile nature of retail apps means that consumers can shop during their commute, at home (or while waiting in line), making it easier to capture impulse purchases.
Additionally, apps can integrate loyalty programs and personalized offers, which incentivize repeat business and encourage customers to spend more.
Retail app developer example
Source: ENO8
4. Access to customer insights
Retail apps provide businesses with access to valuable customer data and insights. Retailers can track user behaviour, preferences, and purchasing patterns.
This data enables you to make informed decisions about inventory management, marketing strategies, and product offerings.
5. Competitive advantage
In a crowded retail landscape, having a dedicated mobile app can give businesses a competitive edge. Many customers prefer shopping through apps due to the convenience and enhanced features they offer compared to traditional websites.
An effective app can position a brand as innovative and customer-centric, appealing to tech-savvy consumers and enhancing overall brand perception.
6. Streamlined operations and inventory management
Retail apps can improve internal operations and inventory management by integrating back-end systems.
This integration facilitates efficient order processing and fulfilment, allowing retailers to manage logistics and customer service more effectively.
7. Enhanced customer support
Retail apps can enhance customer support by offering users various self-service options and direct access to support channels.
Features such as chatbots, FAQs, and live chat enable customers to resolve issues before contacting customer service representatives directly. This immediacy not only improves the user experience but also frees up support staff to handle more complex inquiries.
In summary, retail app development offers a range of benefits that help businesses enhance both their visibility and engagement with users.
What are the must-have features of retail apps?
Successful retail apps stand out in a competitive market by offering features that enhance user engagement and satisfaction.
Below are key features that contribute to the success of retail apps:
User-friendly interface
A retail app must have a user-friendly interface that prioritizes ease of navigation.
This includes intuitive layout design, clear categories, and simple access to essential features.
Advanced search functionality
Search functionality is essential for helping users quickly find products. Features such as keyword search, voice search, and filters enhance the user experience.
Autocomplete suggestions and related product recommendations can further streamline the search process.
Shopping cart and checkout process
An efficient shopping cart and checkout process are critical for converting potential buyers.
Features such as guest checkout options, saved payment methods, and multiple payment gateways (credit cards, digital wallets) facilitate quick and secure transactions, reducing cart abandonment rates.
Product catalogue with rich media
A comprehensive product catalogue showcasing a variety of items is vital for retail apps.
High-quality images, videos, detailed descriptions, and customer reviews help customers make informed decisions. This includes user-generated content, such as photos and reviews.
Retail app developer example
Source: MaxSoft
Personalized recommendations
Personalized product recommendations based on user behaviour and preferences can enhance the shopping experience.
Utilizing AI algorithms, the app can suggest items that align with the customer’s past purchases and browsing history. This feature not only improves customer satisfaction but also increases the likelihood of additional sales.
Customer loyalty programs
Integrating customer loyalty programs directly into the app encourages repeat business (and customer retention).
Features such as reward points, exclusive offers, and special discounts for app users create a sense of belonging and incentivize purchases.
Push notifications
Push notifications serve as an effective way to engage users and keep them informed about promotions, new products, and personalized offers.
Timely notifications can remind users about abandoned carts, special discounts, or restocks of previously viewed items.
Customer support integration
A retail app should offer customer support features to address user inquiries quickly and efficiently.
Having a dedicated support section within the app helps foster trust and enhances the overall shopping experience, allowing users to feel supported throughout their buying journey.
How much does it cost to develop retail apps?
The cost of developing a retail app can vary widely depending on several factors, including the app’s complexity, features, and the location of the development team.
Here’s a general overview of estimated costs by country:
- US: $50,000 to $250,000
- Canada: $30,000 to $150,000
- UK: $40,000 to $200,000
- Germany: $40,000 to $200,000
- Australia: $40,000 to $200,000
- India: $10,000 to $50,000
- Ukraine: $20,000 to $100,000
- Philippines: $15,000 to $70,000
- Brazil: $20,000 to $90,000
- South Africa: $25,000 to $100,000
The average cost of building a retail mobile app depends on the app’s complexity–more features will mean a higher price.
It’s always worth contacting the retail app development company beforehand for an estimate.
What are the main challenges of retail app development?
Developing retail apps can be a rewarding venture, but it also comes with various challenges that app developers and companies must navigate to ensure success.
These challenges can impact the app’s quality, user engagement, and overall market competitiveness.
Below are the five main challenges faced in retail app development.
User experience design
Creating an intuitive and engaging user experience is a significant challenge in retail app development.
Designers must ensure that the app is visually appealing, easy to navigate, and provides a seamless shopping experience at all times.
Integration with existing systems
Integrating the retail app with existing back-end systems, such as inventory management, customer relationship management (known as CRM), and payment gateways, can be complex.
Developers must carefully plan and execute these integrations to ensure operations proceed smoothly.
Retail app developer example
Source: SmartTech
Security and data privacy
Security and data privacy are paramount concerns in retail app development. Retailers must protect sensitive customer information, such as payment details and personal data, from breaches and cyberattacks.
Implementing security measures, such as encryption, secure payment gateways, and compliance with regulations such as GDPR requires ongoing attention (and resources).
Keeping up with tech trends
The retail landscape is rapidly evolving, and keeping up with the latest tech trends is challenging for developers.
Retail app developers must stay informed about emerging tech to remain competitive and meet ongoing and emerging customer expectations.
Ensuring cross-platform compatibility
Developing a retail app that functions seamlessly across various platforms (iOS, Android, Web) poses a challenge. Each platform has its own design guidelines, functionalities, and user behaviours.
Developers must, therefore, test extensively to ensure that the app performs well on all platforms and screen sizes.
Work with top retail app development companies
To recap, the most critical reasons for having a retail app are the following:
- Retail apps provide customers with the ability to shop anytime and anywhere
- Apps enable tailored shopping experiences through personalized recommendations and offers
- Integrating loyalty programs and rewards within the app encourages repeat purchases
- Retail apps facilitate direct customer communication through push notifications
- Apps provide valuable customer data and analytics, allowing retailers to understand purchasing patterns
There are a number of app development companies that take on retail app development projects and have app developers with experience specifically catered to these apps.
Below, we’ve put together a list of the best.
