Running a wholesale business in PrestaShop requires different pricing, access control, and product visibility than a retail store. One of the best ways to manage wholesale operations is by using the PrestaShop Private Shop feature. This allows store owners to restrict access, show exclusive pricing, and manage wholesale pricing in PrestaShop effectively.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to use PrestaShop Private Shop to create a successful wholesale business model and how to set up wholesale pricing in PrestaShop for approved customers only.
What Is PrestaShop Private Shop?
A PrestaShop Private Shop is an online store where access is restricted to registered users or approved customers. This feature is useful for wholesale businesses, as it allows you to:
Show different prices to different customers
Control product visibility
Limit access to wholesale customers only
Offer exclusive deals and discounts
By setting up a PrestaShop Private Shop, you can ensure that only authorized wholesalers can see and purchase products at wholesale pricing in PrestaShop.
Why Use a PrestaShop Private Shop for Wholesale Business?
1. Control Access to Wholesale Prices
Retail customers should not see wholesale pricing in PrestaShop. A private shop ensures that only approved users can view and purchase products at special rates.
2. Offer Exclusive Wholesale Pricing
With a PrestaShop Private Shop, you can set up different pricing rules for wholesale buyers and standard customers.
3. Improve Business Relationships
By restricting access, you create an exclusive shopping experience for wholesale clients, building trust and long-term partnerships.
4. Prevent Unauthorized Purchases
Not all customers should be able to buy wholesale products. A PrestaShop Private Shop ensures that only verified businesses get access.
How to Set Up a PrestaShop Private Shop for Wholesale Business?
Step 1: Install a Private Shop Module
PrestaShop does not have a built-in private shop feature, so you need a module. Popular choices include:
PrestaShop Private Shop Module
PrestaShop B2B Private Store Module
These modules allow you to restrict access and control pricing for wholesale buyers.
Step 2: Restrict Access to Approved Users
Go to the Private Shop Module settings.
Enable “Restrict Access to Registered Users”.
Allow only approved wholesale customers to log in and view prices.
Set up an approval process where new users must be verified before gaining access.
Now, only verified wholesale buyers can enter the PrestaShop Private Shop.
Step 3: Set Up Wholesale Pricing in PrestaShop
Go to Customers → Groups in your PrestaShop admin panel.
Click Add New Group and name it “Wholesale Customers.”
Set a discount percentage for this group.
Save the changes.
Now, all wholesale customers in this group will see special wholesale pricing in PrestaShop.
Step 4: Hide Wholesale Prices from Retail Customers
Go to Catalog → Products.
Select a product and click the Prices tab.
Scroll down to Specific Prices and click Add New Price Rule.
Set the price rule for Wholesale Customers only.
Save the changes.
Now, retail customers will not see wholesale pricing in PrestaShop, keeping your pricing structure exclusive.
How to Handle Wholesale Orders in PrestaShop Private Shop?
Once your PrestaShop Private Shop is set up, you need a smooth ordering process for wholesalers. Here are some best practices:
1. Enable Minimum Order Quantity
Go to Catalog → Products and set a minimum order quantity for wholesale products.
2. Offer Bulk Discounts
Use the “Specific Prices” feature to create bulk discount rules for wholesale customers.
3. Use a Wholesale Order Form
Install a PrestaShop Wholesale Order Form Module to allow bulk buyers to place large orders easily.
Common Issues and Fixes in PrestaShop Private Shop
1. Wholesale Prices Visible to Retail Customers
Ensure that wholesale pricing in PrestaShop is set only for the Wholesale Customers group.
2. Retail Customers Accessing Wholesale Shop
Enable manual approval for new users in the Private Shop settings.
3. Discount Rules Not Working
Check for conflicting discount rules and ensure the correct group is selected.
4. Login Page Not Redirecting Properly
Clear the PrestaShop cache and check the module settings.
Best Practices for Running a Successful PrestaShop Private Shop
1. Promote Your Wholesale Program
Add a “Wholesale Signup” page with details on how businesses can apply.
2. Offer Exclusive Benefits
Provide loyalty discounts, free shipping, or faster delivery for wholesale buyers.
3. Automate the Approval Process
Use a PrestaShop B2B module to verify and approve wholesale applications quickly.
4. Keep Pricing Competitive
Monitor market trends to ensure your wholesale pricing in PrestaShop is attractive.
Conclusion
A PrestaShop Private Shop is the perfect solution for managing a wholesale business model. By restricting access and offering wholesale pricing in PrestaShop to approved customers, you can create an exclusive and efficient buying experience.
Install a Private Shop module for access control.
Create a Wholesale Customer Group and set special pricing.
Hide wholesale prices from retail customers to keep pricing secure.
Use bulk order forms and discounts to streamline wholesale purchases.
By following these steps, you can successfully run a wholesale business in PrestaShop and attract more B2B buyers to your store!