Creating a Subscription Based Store for Digital Downloads

[hptree]

Hello all,

I am looking for a recommendation for an app that would allow me to create a subscription-based store that allows customers to pick out and download PDF images from my uploaded library. Once the customer signs up for a PREMIUM subscription, the downloads are to be free of charge and unlimited. 

Basics needs:

1. Select multiples PDFs and download all as one PDF
2. If possible, I would like to have tiers of subscriptions (For example: FREE basic tier only allows for 10 downloads a month while PREMIUM paid tier allows for unlimited downloads) 
3. The store will be able to offer physicals products as well

Any suggestions are much appreciated!

[biznazz101 · Accepted solution]

What you are describing can be done with the following apps:
-Appstle Subscriptions (subscription system, allows for free trials, multiple tiers etc)

-Digital Downloads (download management app made by shopify, works but a paid app for the same purpose would be better)
-Locksmith (Not 100% needed, but will control access to all the pages on your website based on different conditions you set, which could be very useful in your scenario)


Essentially, the customer would purchase a subscription plan, which allows access to specific pages in your store which contain the downloads, they click a link and are taken to the download.

Not exactly what you describe but here is an example: canvenia.com

Hope that is useful! Don't hesitate to reach out for more help.
@biznazz101 

[hptree]

Hi Biznazz101,

I appreciate the suggestions. It looks like Appstle might be the best choice for me. Instead of the Subscription, I found that the Membership plugin has options more aligned to what I am looking for. 

Off topic, but do you have experience with integrating QuickBooks with Shopify store?

Thank you!

[biznazz101]

I do, but it is very poorly rated by store owners it seems. I would steer clear if possible. This is the app designed to be used with Shopify:
https://apps.shopify.com/quickbooks%20

It would be easier to export the transaction information, them upload into quickbooks or another program. It depends on your specific needs though I suppose.

Feel free to message me to discuss further or if you have questions on anything else!
@biznazz101 

[Margarita_SOL]

Hello! I'm building the same functionality and was wondering if you have managed to solve this. Would really appreciate any info.
Best,
Margarita

[hptree]

Hi Margarita, 

Unfortunately I have not found a solution yet. So far I plan to have the customer download all PDFs as sperate files and compile using an online tool. I don't like the added step but that is where I am at so far. 

Thank you,

Marcin

[ultragrapefruit]

I am also looking for a solution -- trying to set up something similar to Patreon or Substack... Have you gotten any further in your solution? 

[RonWasco829]

Hello @hptree 

For setting up a subscription-based store where customers can download PDFs from your library, you might want to consider using the "Trust Subscription" app. Here’s how it can help with your requirements:

• Subscription Management: The app supports creating multiple subscription tiers. You can set up a FREE basic tier with limited downloads and a PREMIUM tier that offers unlimited downloads.
• Download Integration: It can work in conjunction with other apps or tools to manage PDF downloads effectively. You can configure it to allow subscribers to access and download PDFs from your library based on their subscription level. Second App Recomendation : "Digital Downloads"
• User-Friendly: The app is designed to be easy to set up and manage, helping you create a seamless experience for your customers.
• Support for Physical Products: You can also integrate it with other apps to offer physical products alongside your digital downloads.

In addition, you might want to use Shopify’s Digital Downloads app or other tools in conjunction with Trust Subscription to manage the delivery of digital content.

I hope this helps with setting up your subscription store! If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.