Extension only Apps for non-Plus stores

Shopify Apps
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Topic summary

Main issue: A developer built a Shopify function extension to automate tiered discounts using quantity and a custom metafield but can’t deploy it to clients on Shopify Advanced (non‑Plus). Current limitation forces using a public app rather than a single-store custom app.

Context and terms:

  • Shopify function extension: serverless Functions used for discount logic.
  • Public app: distributable app installable by multiple stores; requires full app review/publishing.
  • Custom app: single-store/private installation (sought for non‑Plus, but seemingly unsupported for Functions here).

Latest updates:

  • Another developer reports the same constraint on Advanced plans and asks for a workaround.
  • The original poster confirms they proceeded by building a public app, describing it as a painful, time-consuming process.

Outcomes and open questions:

  • Practical workaround: create a public app to use the function on non‑Plus stores.
  • No confirmation or timeline from Shopify about allowing custom (single-store) function apps for non‑Plus.
  • The policy/roadmap question remains unanswered; discussion is effectively open.
Summarized with AI on December 11. AI used: gpt-5.
1

Ive spent quite some time developing a simple Shopify function extension to automate product discounts based on quantity and a custom metafield then to only realise I cant deploy it to my client as he has 2 x Shopify Advanced plans (not Plus).

It seems very time consuming to try and publish the app publically so this is not really an option.

Do Shopify have any plans upcoming to allow custom-apps (single store) to be applied to non-Plus users in the near future? If so, we intend to wait for it as Shopify Plus is far too expensive for the business.

1 Like
2

Are you me? I created almost exactly the same function for the same purpose but I also just found out that it requires a public app for the advanced stores I maintain.
Did you ever find a solution?

3

Yes I actually built a public app..painful process..

1 Like