The challenge every small business faces
If you’re a small business owner in the Wirral, Liverpool, or surrounding areas, you’ve probably reached that point where you realise - it’s time to get online.
But with so many website platforms out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Do you choose Shopify, Wix or WordPress to name just a few?
At SLOXI Studios, I work with small businesses every day who face this exact question. The good news is: once you understand what each platform offers, the answer becomes clear.
Step 1: Think about what your business really needs
Before choosing a platform, start by defining what you want your website to achieve.
Ask yourself:
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Do I need to sell products online?
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Do I want to take bookings or enquiries through my site?
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Or do I simply need a professional presence to showcase my services?
Once you know your goals, it’s easier to match them to the right platform - and for most growing small businesses, that’s usually Shopify.
Step 2: Comparing popular platforms
🛍️ Shopify - The best choice for growing small businesses
Shopify is one of the world’s leading e-commerce platforms, trusted by millions of businesses big and small. But it’s not just for retailers, it’s ideal for service-based businesses too.
With Shopify, you get:
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A fully hosted, secure platform (no need to manage updates or plug-ins)
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Built-in payment processing and checkout tools
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Mobile-friendly design straight out of the box
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Easy-to-use analytics and SEO tools
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24/7 reliability and scalability as your business grows
💡 Ideal for: Local retailers, makers, salons, coaches, or service providers who want a professional, future-proof website without the technical headaches.
At SLOXI Studios, I specialise in creating Shopify websites for small businesses in Wirral and Liverpool - combining clean design with real strategy to help you attract and convert customers online.
🎨 Wix - Best for quick DIY setups
Wix is a simple drag-and-drop builder that’s great for beginners who want a quick start. Everything is visual and intuitive - but as your business grows, you may hit its limits in flexibility and scalability.
💡 Ideal for: Sole traders or freelancers looking for a short-term online presence.
⚙️ WordPress - Best for full customisation (with tech confidence)
WordPress is incredibly powerful and flexible, but it requires ongoing maintenance, hosting, and updates. It can be a great choice if you have developer support or prefer full control - but for most small business owners, it can be time-intensive.
💡 Ideal for: Larger businesses or those with complex website requirements and technical knowledge.
Step 3: Consider your time, budget, and confidence
Running a business already takes enough of your energy - your website should work for you, not against you.
That’s why Shopify is often the best option for small business owners who don’t want to worry about hosting, plug-ins, or code. You can easily update your products, content, and photos yourself, without calling in tech support.
💬 Pro tip: Think about your “future self.” Will you have time to maintain a complex site? If not, Shopify’s simplicity and scalability make it a smart investment.
Step 4: Plan for long-term growth, not just launch day
Your website is a foundation, not a one-off project. As your business grows, your website should too.
Shopify lets you:
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Add new services or products anytime
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Integrate marketing tools and email platforms
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Track performance with analytics
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Optimise for SEO without extra plug-ins
Choosing Shopify means choosing a platform built for long-term business success - not a quick fix.
Step 5: Get expert advice before you commit
Still unsure which platform fits your business best? You don’t have to figure it out alone.
That’s exactly what my Digital Consultancy Session is designed for.
I’ll help you:
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Review your business goals and digital needs
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Compare website platforms based on your situation
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Create a tailored plan for launching or improving your website
It’s practical, jargon-free advice designed to save you time and money - and give you confidence in your digital decisions.
✨ Final thoughts
Choosing the right website platform is one of the most important steps in building your online presence.
For most small businesses Shopify offers the best balance of simplicity, flexibility, and long-term support.
At SLOXI Studios, I create Shopify websites that blend strategy and design, helping small business owners take confident steps into the digital space.
If you’re based in the Wirral, Liverpool, or surrounding regions and are thinking about building your website on Shopify, let’s chat.
Book a free consultation today to discuss how I can help you choose the right setup and make your first steps online simple, effective, and built to grow.