How to Convert a PrestaShop Store into a Mobile App

If you’re running a PrestaShop store, you’ve probably noticed something: more and more of your customers are shopping from their phones. And not just browsing—buying. The truth is, people don’t want to pinch, zoom, or deal with clunky mobile browsers anymore. They want the smooth, quick experience of an app.

So, what do you do? Build an app. Not from scratch—don’t worry. You’ve already done the hard work building your store. This guide is going to walk you through how to turn that PrestaShop store into a mobile app that actually feels good to use—and more importantly, helps you sell more.

Why Convert Your PrestaShop Store into a Mobile App?

Growing Mobile Usage Trends

It’s not just about convenience anymore. Mobile shopping is how people shop, full stop. If your store isn’t easy to use on a phone, you’re probably missing out on buyers who just move on after a few seconds.

Enhanced User Experience

Let’s be honest—apps are smoother. They load faster, feel cleaner, and don’t have all the distractions that come with a browser. It’s just you and your customer, without the noise. That experience alone keeps people coming back.

Improved Conversion Rates

An app gives you features you just don’t get with a website—things like push notifications and saved payment info. That makes it easier for someone to buy without second-guessing or clicking away mid-checkout.

Key Steps to Convert a PrestaShop Store into a Mobile App

Let’s keep this simple and straight. You don’t need to be a tech wizard. You just need a solid process.

1. Analyze Your Current Store

Before you dive in, take some time to check what’s working. Are your product pages clean? Is navigation easy? Do your current customers complain about the mobile site? Jot down what you’d want to improve. That’s going to shape your app’s design.

2. Choose the Right Approach

Not all apps are created the same. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Native apps (built for Android or iOS specifically) give the best performance.
Hybrid apps work on both platforms with one codebase, and they’re cheaper.
There are also no-code tools if you’re on a tight budget, but be careful—they’re not always flexible.

You don’t need to build from zero. Most businesses either use a PrestaShop-compatible app builder or hire a dev team that knows their way around both PrestaShop and mobile.

3. Select a PrestaShop App Builder or Partner

This step can make or break the process. You’ll want a developer or service provider who understands both PrestaShop and mobile app development. Ideally, they should offer real-time syncing, custom UI options, and post-launch support.

Consider partnering with a trusted PrestaShop development company. They’ll help you avoid technical headaches and ensure your app runs smoothly from day one.

4. Design the App Interface

This is so important. Don’t just copy your site layout and shrink it into an app. Start fresh. Keep menus simple. Use bigger buttons. Show your best products up front. Your app should feel like it was made for thumbs, not a mouse.

5. Sync Your Store Data

You don’t want to be updating products in two places. The right app should automatically pull info from your PrestaShop backend—products, prices, inventory, even orders. Set it up once and let it do its thing.

6. Test the App Thoroughly

Don’t rush the launch. Install it on different phones. Try ordering something. Log in, check out, scroll through categories. Better yet, have someone who isn’t tech-savvy try it. If they can use it without asking questions, you’re on the right track.

7. Publish and Promote Your App

Once it’s ready, submit it to the App Store and Google Play. You’ll need developer accounts, and the review process can take a few days. After that? Spread the word. Add a banner to your site. Email your customers. Offer a discount for first-time app users—whatever gets people to download and try it.

Features to Include in Your PrestaShop Mobile App

Here are a few features you’ll want to include if you want people to keep using your app:

Push Notifications

Use them to let people know about new arrivals, flash sales, or when they leave something in their cart. Just don’t overdo it—nobody likes spammy pings.

In-App Payments

Make checkout fast. Let users save their info so they can buy in a few taps. The fewer steps, the better.

Customer Accounts & Order History

Customers should be able to log in, track orders, and reorder easily. It’s all about making the experience smooth.

Multiple Languages and Currencies

If you sell internationally, this is a no-brainer. Speak their language and show prices in their currency. It makes a difference.

Wrapping It Up

Turning your PrestaShop store into a mobile app might sound like a big project—but it really isn’t as complex as it seems. And the upside? Huge. You’ll meet your customers where they already are: on their phones.

Just remember, this isn’t about building an app for the sake of having one. It’s about creating something that makes shopping easier, smoother, and more enjoyable for your customers. And when you get that right? The sales follow.

Take your time, partner with the right people, and build something that feels just as good as your products do.