Shopify has fundamentally revised its partner program and introduced a new, multi-level system to strengthen cooperation with partners and promote global trade. With clearly defined categories - for Service Partners and Technology Partners - and new tiers such as Registered, Select, Plus, Premier and Platinum, Shopify is offering its Shopify Partners even more targeted support. These changes mark the end of previous programs such as the Plus Partner Program and make room for a modern model that focuses on performance, innovation and collaboration.
In this article you will learn what the new Shopify Partner Program means for you, how you as a merchant can benefit from it and what will change for Latori.
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How do you become a Shopify Partner?
To become a Shopify Partner, it's not enough to simply sign up for the Shopify Partner Program - it requires a willingness to build expertise and actively engage in supporting merchants. Depending on the chosen partner track - service or technology - specific skills are required, be it in the development of apps or strategic consulting for companies. Especially in the new level system of the partner program, higher requirements also open up greater opportunities to comprehensively support retailers in their growth and to benefit from extended advantages themselves.
In the DACH region, Latori and Hyghstreet (formerly beeclever) are considered veterans in the Shopify agency world and combine many years of experience with in-depth expertise. Our partnership with Hyghstreet underlines how well our skills complement each other - from strategic consulting to technical implementation. We value each other not only professionally but also personally and work closely together to achieve the best for our clients. Both we at Latori and Hyghstreet can now carry the “Shopify Premier Partner” label. This makes us the only two agencies in Germany.
Reading tip: You can read a detailed overview of the differences between Shopify and Shopify Plus here.
What changes are there in the partner program?
The Shopify Partner Program has been fundamentally revised to create a clear structure and expanded opportunities for partners. A key element of this reorganization is the introduction of a new, multi-tiered system that divides partners into Registered, Select, Plus, Premier and Platinum. Each of these tiers is based on partner performance and goals achieved and provides access to different benefits and resources.
Additionally, the Shopify Partner Program has been split into two tracks: the Service Partner track, which is aimed at agencies and consultants, and the Technology Partner track, which is for developers and software vendors. These changes provide a clear structure and targeted support to enable partners to improve their performance and deliver innovative solutions.
The Shopify Plus Partner Agency Program and the Plus Certified App Program, which previously existed separately, have been integrated into the new model. In December 2024, the Plus Partner Program was discontinued to focus on the new structures that enable more effective collaboration with Shopify. These changes ensure that Shopify continues to promote global commerce and remains at the forefront of technology in collaboration with its partners.
Reading tip: Find out more about the benefits of a Shopify partnership here.
What do the individual levels mean?
The tiers of the new Shopify Partner Program serve as performance indicators and define the benefits partners receive based on their success and expertise. Each tier provides customized resources and support to foster growth and collaboration in the Shopify ecosystem.
A central part of the program is the Shopify Academy, which requires partners to regularly train and demonstrate their knowledge through certificates and exams. The higher the level in the partner program, the more extensive the training and examination requirements. This ensures that partners - like us at Latori - stay up to date with the latest Shopify technologies and strategies.
For merchants, this means working with partners who not only have in-depth expertise, but also have it continuously updated and tested. Our Shopify developers and marketers are highly trained to develop innovative solutions and understand the latest Shopify features and tools.
Reading tip: Here you can find 22 successful companies that use Shopify Plus.
Registered Partner: This level is the entry level for new partners. They receive basic access to resources and tools to expand their presence in the Shopify ecosystem and gain initial experience.
Shopify Select Partner: Partners at this level have a proven track record of working successfully with small and medium-sized businesses. They benefit from extended benefits, including a special tier badge and access to the partner directory. Select Partners also receive access to marketing materials and additional resources.
Shopify Plus Partner: This tier is for partners who successfully work with medium to large businesses on all Shopify plans. Shopify Plus Partners receive additional support and resources to accelerate their growth and have access to specialized training and tailored support.
Shopify Premier Partner: This exclusive tier is for high-performing partners who meet the highest standards and play a central role in the Shopify network. Premier Partners benefit from premium support, strategic collaboration and prioritized access to Shopify events as well as direct contact with Shopify teams.
Shopify Platinum Partner: The highest level reserved for a small group of outstanding partners. Shopify Platinum Partners receive personalized account management services, tailored growth opportunities and industry-specific recognition. These partners enjoy privileged access to strategic opportunities and close collaboration with Shopify on a global scale.
Latori has been accepted into the exclusive Premier tier based on our historical commercial influence and best-in-class performance in the Shopify ecosystem. This makes us one of two agencies in the German-speaking world that can call themselves Premier Partners. By the way: There are currently no dedicated Shopify Platinum Partners in Germany, so Shopify Premier Partners are currently the highest standard in the DACH region.
This level gives us access to special benefits such as:
referral and co-sell incentives,
improved go-to-market tools,
a dedicated Partner Development Manager,
prioritized support
and application-based funding.
With this status, we are ideally positioned to provide comprehensive support to retailers and develop innovative solutions for global commerce together with Shopify.
Reading tip: We go into the advantages of Shopify Plus in more detail in this blog.
What advantages does this offer Shopify merchants?
The changes to the Shopify Partner Program not only benefit partners, but also customers. The clear structure and tier system gives customers access to highly qualified partners with proven expertise. Retailers can therefore be sure that they are working with partners who are precisely tailored to their needs. In addition, customers benefit from innovative technologies and optimized services developed by specialized partners. The new tracks ensure that both technological and strategic requirements are covered, helping retailers to scale their businesses more efficiently and achieve their goals.
Reading tip: If you don't want to miss any more Shopify updates, read more here.
Conclusion
The new Shopify Partner Program represents a significant step in the evolution of collaboration between Shopify and its partners. By introducing a multi-tiered system with clearly defined tracks for service partners and technology partners, partners and merchants alike will receive enhanced support and customized resources. The different levels - from Registered to Platinum - allow partners to develop according to their expertise and offer customized solutions for their customers. Notably, the new structures will also benefit Shopify Plus Partner Agencies, who will now be supported with additional resources and specialized support. Merchants can be assured of working with qualified and high performing partners who will help them achieve their business goals faster and more effectively.
For more information or assistance with your Shopify project, please contact us. Contact us to find out more about our services as a Shopify partner and how we can help you make your online store a success.
