Hi there, can you recommend a reliable and easy-to-use/set up extension for your Joomla! 3+ templates? My client wants an eCommerce section to sell products. I'll be using the Colourshift2 template. Please let me know

Thanks,
Nader

Hi Nader.

E-commerce is a tricky one

How many products are you wanting to sell?

Is the client managing the e-commerce system?

Cheers
Paul

Hi Paul,

No, I'd be the one managing the site. Basically, it's a hair school that sells packages on learning different techniques. There will be a few packages, maybe around 10-15. Wanted something that would allow quantity selection, and be able to link to a payment gateway like Paypal or something. This will be my first time incorporating a shopping cart, which is why I asked. Would something like this do the trick?

extensions.joomla.org/extensions/extension/e-commerce/shopping-cart/eshop/

I'll be redesigning the www.grahamwebbacademy.edu/ website. They're currently using Adobe Business Catalyst, but I want to use Joomla. If you take a look, they have packages they sell. I need to mimic that sort of shopping cart.

Thanks,
Nader

Hi Nader,

You will need to add styling support for which ever component you use

Most members seem to prefer hikashop but as with all e-commerce systems it is complex

They do offer a starter version that might be worth looking at to see what you think

sorry forgot the link - www.hikashop.com/

Ok will do. Thanks, Paul.

Nader

Hi Nader

I'd echo Paul's comment about Hikashop, it is sound component for adding a ecommerce solution to Joomla, is actively developed and supported. It is our go to solution if we are adding to joomla.

Hikashop though is complex to setup and support especially for the first time. It may be overkill for simple shop.

Another to look at is J2store
www.j2store.org
Again well supported and simpler to setup, but is growing in size.

For a really simple store that does not need complex backend management we will just use PayPal to add the button or cart code into joomla articles or modules. PayPal provide all the tools and management needed.

If you need some help adding the code, you could use an extension. Instant paypal offer one for free
storejextensions.org/extensions/instant_paypal.html

I would avoid complex carts unless you really need the added functionality and management tools, or need to support specific payment gateways. In all cases you are likely to need to tweak the styling. JB templates work well with hikashop for the most part.

Just my thoughts on the subject as a user.

Ian

That's very helpful! Thank you so much, Ian. Much appreciated.

Nader

Thanks Ian