Distribution model for API integration

[khun_nils]

We’re looking to integrate our SaaS product with Shopify so that retailers can automatically sync their product collections from Shopify.

We have this working in development with OAuth and the products API using the following flow:

1. From our (web) app, retailer requests to connect with Shopify.
2. User enters URL of Shopify site and is redirected to Shopify for authorization
3. User authorizes the app and consents to the requested scopes (read products).
4. We receive an authorization grant which we use to request access token
5. We use access token to sync products and configure web hooks.

I have seen this type of flow implemented in other products and it is working well in development with a test store but I’m struggling to work out how to get this distributed.

Based on documentation here: https://shopify.dev/docs/apps/distribution it seems the only way to deploy an integration to multiple stores would be via the Shopify App Store, i.e user would have to find our app in the Shopify app store and then initiate the OAuth flow from there.

It seems odd to me that an API-only data integration would require a public app in the Shopify App Store.

Could someone help clarify this or point me in the right direction?

[Weaverse]

Hi there! This is Paul from the Weaverse team. 😊

All new apps are created as drafts and can only be installed in non-transferable stores. To make your app available for installation in other stores, you'll need to submit it for review.

To ensure an easier review process, you can choose the app type as "Unlisted" during the submission. This will allow you to distribute your app to multiple clients without being visible in the Shopify App Store. Once the review is complete, and your app is approved, you can provide your clients with the unique installation link.

Let me know if you need any more help. Cheers!