Overview
Kitsu Koi is a specialist koi store based in Sheffield, offering both live fish and associated products through their existing Shopify store. Our initial work with them involved targeted enhancements to their Shopify theme, adding new features such as product-level pickup restrictions, and configuring complex shipping profiles tailored to their unique logistics — for instance, live fish are shipped via a different courier than dry goods. Using our in-depth knowledge of Shopify, we helped fine-tune their store setup to better suit their business model and workflows.
Migration to a Custom Turnkey Solution
More recently, Kitsu Koi approached us about migrating away from Shopify to a bespoke e-commerce solution. This decision stemmed from the limitations they were hitting with Shopify — particularly in terms of flexibility, cost, and the need for tighter integration between their online store, shipping providers, and in-store systems. Off-the-shelf platforms like WooCommerce or Magento were considered, but ultimately rejected due to the overhead, complexity, and lack of fit with the client’s operational needs.
Instead, we proposed a fully custom, turnkey solution designed around their workflows. This approach gives Kitsu Koi complete ownership and control over their platform with zero subscription lock-in, more flexibility in integrations, and a user experience tailored precisely to their customers and staff.
We're now deep into the development of this new system, working closely with Kitsu Koi to ensure the migration will be smooth and beneficial for both their staff and customers.
Design & Discovery
We began by designing a new frontend theme from the ground up — one that balances aesthetics with performance and accessibility. Our custom design better reflects the Kitsu Koi brand than any off-the-shelf theme ever could, and sets the foundation for a more streamlined shopping experience.
During the planning phase, we conducted technical discovery and stakeholder workshops to map out:
- Third-party integrations (e.g. courier services, payment providers)
- Data migration paths from Shopify
- Admin workflows and usability expectations
- Requirements for in-store POS continuity
We then began work with their shipping provider (ParcelHub/Whistl), integrating directly with their test environment to provide seamless label generation and dispatch capabilities—right from within the store’s admin panel. This alone has drastically reduced operational overhead by eliminating the need to manually log into multiple systems.
We’re also evaluating payment providers on Kitsu Koi’s behalf — including CreatePay, Stripe, and Braintree — and will present pros and cons for each before implementation.
As with all our projects, we act as a technical liaison for our clients, handling supplier conversations and API integrations while ensuring all final decisions remain firmly in the client’s hands.
Implementation
While awaiting supplier confirmations, we’ve been working in parallel on the implementation of core platform features. These include:
- Back office tools for order processing, customer management, and product handling
- A modern frontend with fast product search, cart functionality, and account management
- Scalable infrastructure for handling future growth and seasonal traffic
We’ve also built a robust Shopify data migration system. When it's time to switch platforms, the process will involve locking the Shopify store briefly, transferring all product, order, and customer data, and then switching DNS. We've also developed an intelligent URL redirect system that handles old Shopify links and guides both users and search engines to the correct pages on the new platform — minimizing disruption and preserving SEO.
In-Store POS & App Experience
Kitsu Koi also operate a physical store, so a core requirement was to maintain in-store sales capability during and after migration. To solve this, we’re leveraging a platform we’ve previously built for generic e-commerce, extending it to offer a native iPad point-of-sale experience.
This POS app mirrors the workflow and design of Shopify’s existing POS, minimising training needs for the team. Because we’re licensed Apple and Google developers, we can distribute the app directly to Kitsu Koi’s devices without any sideloading or developer fees. Updates are pushed automatically — no technical input required from the client.
This is part of the "full-service" approach we offer: clients get the benefit of custom-built software without the headaches of maintaining it.
Why a Custom Platform?
While platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento offer convenience, they often come with compromises. For businesses like Kitsu Koi — who need more complex shipping rules, integrated label handling, in-store support, and flexible payment workflows — the overhead of bending these platforms to fit is both costly and limiting.
Our custom solution avoids plugin bloat, removes unnecessary features, and gives Kitsu Koi a streamlined, maintainable stack designed around their real-world needs. It also ensures long-term cost savings by avoiding per-transaction or feature-gated pricing models common in commercial platforms.