Shopify Plus App development environment

Shopify Discussion
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Topic summary

A developer inquired about the Shopify Plus app development environment.

Development Setup Requirements:

  • Shopify Partner Account (free)
  • Shopify Plus Sandbox Store (requested through Partner Dashboard)
  • Shopify CLI for app management
  • Node.js or Ruby on Rails for backend development

Shopify Plus Exclusive Features:

  • Multipass Login for external website authentication
  • Script Editor for checkout customization (discounts, shipping, payments)
  • Shopify Functions for server-side workflow logic
  • B2B capabilities (custom pricing, volume discounts)
  • Higher API rate limits compared to standard plans

Key Differences:
While the development environment mirrors standard Shopify app development, Plus apps gain access to exclusive APIs and enhanced checkout customization options. Developers can build either custom apps (for specific stores) or public apps (available on the App Store).

Recommendation:
Always test in a Shopify Plus sandbox store to ensure compatibility with Plus-specific features before deployment.

Summarized with AI on November 1. AI used: claude-sonnet-4-5-20250929.
1

Hey guys!
I want to know about environment of shopify plus app development.
Thanks
zoynul

2

Hi @appaza

Great question! If you’re looking to develop an app specifically for Shopify Plus, the development environment is pretty much the same as standard Shopify app development, but with access to exclusive Shopify Plus features. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know:

1. Development Setup

You’ll need the following:

  • Shopify Partner Account (Free) – You can create and manage Shopify apps here.
  • Shopify Plus Sandbox Store – If you’re working on a Shopify Plus-specific app, request access to a sandbox store through your Partner Dashboard.
  • Shopify CLI – Helps set up and manage your app efficiently.
  • Node.js / Ruby on Rails – Shopify officially supports both for backend development.

2. Key Shopify Plus Features You Can Use

If your app is targeted for Shopify Plus stores, you can leverage:

  • Multipass Login – Allows seamless login from external websites.
  • Script Editor (Checkout Customization) – Modify discounts, shipping rules, and payments at checkout.
  • Shopify Functions – Write server-side logic to customize Shopify workflows.
  • B2B Features – Custom pricing, customer accounts, and volume discounts for wholesalers.
  • API Rate Limits – Higher API limits compared to standard Shopify plans.

3. API Considerations for Plus Apps

Shopify Plus stores often require advanced API handling. Make sure your app:

  • Uses GraphQL Admin API (recommended for efficiency).
  • Handles webhooks properly to sync data in real-time.
  • Supports bulk operations if dealing with high-volume stores.

4. Private vs. Public Apps- Private App – Built for a single Plus store, can use exclusive Shopify Plus APIs.

  • Custom App – Similar to private apps but preferred (Shopify phased out private apps).
  • Public App – Available on the Shopify App Store for any Plus store to install.

5. Example Code for Shopify Plus API (GraphQL Query Example)

If you’re fetching bulk orders for a Shopify Plus store, you’d use something like this:

const query = `

{

orders(first: 50) {

edges {

node {

id

name

totalPriceSet {

presentmentMoney {

amount

currencyCode

}

}

}

}

}

}`;

This will return the first 50 orders with their total price and currency. You’ll run this with an authenticated GraphQL Admin API request.

Final Thoughts

Shopify Plus app development isn’t too different from standard Shopify apps, but you do get some exclusive APIs, checkout scripts, and better API limits. If your app is meant for Plus merchants, always test in a Shopify Plus sandbox store to make sure it works with their unique features.

If you need extra help, just let me know asap. Thanks!
Daisy.