Shopify is expanding its global programme to allow local European Enterprise Resource planning (ERP) partners to join and build direct integrations to the e-commerce platform.

Through the local ERP programme, merchants have access to a variety of apps directly integrated with Shopify. ERP partners can also build Shopify apps which can help businesses to scale.

Firms which have joined the program include German firms Xentral, Pickware and Afterbuy as well as Netherlands based EV$ and Holded in Spain.

Shopify says this will benefit merchants in several ways including the power to control their data without needing to connect to a third party and seamless integration of workflows which will allow companies to make better decisions using data.

The e-commerce platform also claimed that firms using their service would need to run less applications which would lead to more automation and this could save them time and money.

Commenting on the news Deann Evans, director of EMEA expansion and partnerships at Shopify said, “Compared to other parts of the world, merchants across Europe have different commerce needs and requirements to serve their customers in the most effective way. Thanks to the launch of the local ERP programme, merchants now have the power to reduce the complexity of their business by working with trusted partners which understand their regional needs.”

He added: “After all, the future of commerce is not Direct to Consumer, but Connect to Consumer. Businesses must think of retail as being more than just a transaction; it's about understanding what consumers want and building a connection with them. With solutions now being specifically tailored to local market nuances, merchants can achieve this even more.”

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