Russian e-commerce giant OZON has implemented significant changes to its store design policies, transitioning from free basic templates to a tiered paid customization system. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for sellers on the platform.
Three-Tiered Design Options
The new system offers sellers varying levels of store customization:
- Free Basic Version: Provides essential store presentation features for new sellers with limited budgets.
- Premium Subscription (~$40/month): Includes dedicated product pages that prevent competitor information from appearing on listings. Subscribers receive an official "Premium" badge that enhances buyer trust and potentially increases conversion rates.
- Custom Store Design (~$4,700/year): Offers brand-specific storefront development by OZON's professional team, including customized branding narratives, product displays, and visual styling.
Potential Benefits of Paid Customization
Premium store designs may provide several competitive advantages:
- Enhanced brand recognition through distinctive visual identity
- Improved user experience with optimized product layouts
- Higher conversion rates through targeted product presentation
- Increased average order value through brand storytelling
Implementation Process
Sellers can upgrade their store designs through the OZON seller backend by navigating to the "Promotions" section and selecting appropriate customization options.
This policy change reflects OZON's move toward platform standardization and professionalization. Early adoption of premium store features may provide sellers with competitive advantages in the evolving Russian e-commerce market.