Online shops and product brands
Web Design for E-commerce
E-commerce web design in the UK has to do two jobs at once: sell products persuasively and meet the legal requirements for selling at a distance. A beautiful shop that hides delivery costs, or skips cancellation information, loses sales and risks complaints. This guide covers the information every UK online shop must provide, what makes product pages convert and how to choose a platform.
What the law requires from a UK online shop
The Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 require online sellers to give customers key information before they buy: who you are and how to contact you, the main characteristics of the goods, the total price including taxes and delivery, delivery arrangements, and the right to cancel. For most goods, customers can cancel within 14 days of receiving them. If you don't tell customers about this right, the cancellation period can be extended by up to 12 months.
You also need a privacy notice explaining how you use customer data, cookie consent that meets the PECR rules, and, if you're a limited company, your company details on the site.
Product pages that sell
Customers can't touch your products, so your pages must do the work. Use several clear photos from different angles, including scale. Write specific descriptions: materials, dimensions, care, what's in the box. Show stock levels honestly and give a realistic delivery estimate near the "add to basket" button. Reviews from verified buyers add confidence.
Checkout and delivery
Unexpected costs at checkout are one of the most common reasons people abandon a basket. Show delivery prices on product pages or in a clear delivery section. Offer guest checkout, common payment methods and a short form. Explain returns in plain English and link to the policy from the checkout.
Choosing a platform
Shopify, WooCommerce and other platforms each suit different businesses. Consider your product count, how you manage stock, payment and transaction fees, the apps you'll need, and who will maintain the site. A platform with low set-up costs can become expensive as you add apps, so compare the likely monthly cost over three years.
UK online shop checklist
- Business name, address and contact details
- Total prices including VAT and delivery shown before checkout
- 14-day cancellation right and returns process explained
- Privacy notice and cookie consent
- Product pages with multiple photos and specific details
- Guest checkout and common payment methods
- Company number and registered office if a limited company
Good to know
Your questions, answered.
Do I have to offer refunds on all products?+
Most goods sold online carry a 14-day cancellation right, but there are exceptions, such as personalised items, perishable goods and sealed hygiene products once unsealed. Check the GOV.UK guidance for your products.
Which e-commerce platform is best?+
It depends on your products, budget and who will run the shop. Compare total cost, including transaction fees and apps, over at least three years.
How many products should I launch with?+
Launch with the products you can photograph and describe properly. A smaller, well-presented range usually outsells a large range with thin pages.
Related guides
Sources
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