Why EKM is the Best Alternative to Shopify for UK Businesses

Shopping for the right ecommerce platform can feel a bit like speed dating in the digital world. You want commitment, but you’re wary of empty promises and unexpected red flags. For UK businesses, the battle between EKM and Shopify is more than just a box-ticking exercise; it’s about finding a partner that truly gets you, your customers, and the British way of doing business.

Local Advantage: Support That Speaks Your Language

Ever been stuck on hold with an overseas support team, spelling out your problem letter by letter? It’s enough to drive anyone spare. With EKM, you get friendly, UK-based support from real people who understand everything from VAT rates to postcodes. No awkward time zone gymnastics necessary. Each business is assigned a dedicated account manager, so you’re not just another ticket in the queue; you’ve got a guide in your corner who actually knows your site and goals.

I’ve helped four separate small firms switch to EKM in the last year alone, and the feedback is always the same: “We wish we’d moved sooner. The support is just next level.” There’s peace of mind in knowing help is right there, from folks who understand the quirks of the UK market as well as you do.

Clear, All-In Pricing: No Nasty Surprises

Let’s talk numbers. The price you see with EKM is what you pay. Each plan rolls up costs for hosting, SSL, built-in features, and support into one fixed monthly fee, making budgeting more predictable than a rainy Wednesday in Manchester.

No hidden costs. No third-party app stacking. Absolutely zero transaction markups tacked on after the fact. With Shopify, you might start cheap, but it’s easy to be blindsided by every new ‘essential’ plugin or extra percentage shaved off each sale. With EKM, those extras are already baked in, saving you a right headache (and making your spreadsheet look a lot tidier).

Built-In Features: Ready Out-Of-The-Box

Why faff about bolting on dozens of apps when the basics. And then some. Should already be sorted? EKM arrives fully loaded: think powerful email marketing, deep analytics, slick product management, even advanced SEO. All included. There’s no frantic race to the app store needed just to get up and running.

This matters to any business owner who’s got more to do than fuss over plugins. I’ve worked with retailers who’ve spent hours wrangling Shopify apps just to manage stock or get simple email automations set up. With EKM, that’s sorted from day one, and you get to focus on what you do best: selling.

Real UK Success Stories

Now, if you’re thinking, “That all sounds lovely, but does it work in practice?”. Let me hand the mic to the folks who’ve made the leap. British independents like The Corner Cupboard in Kent and Dizzy Daisy Designs in Yorkshire both reported smoother launches, better sales, and faster replies to issues after switching from Shopify to EKM.

“We moved to EKM after months of frustration with Shopify’s hidden fees and slow support. Our questions get answered so quickly now, and we’re seeing more return customers too.”
. Louise, owner of The Corner Cupboard

It’s not a rare story. Across the UK, businesses fed up with generic, outsourced help and mounting extras are seeing higher customer satisfaction and stronger growth once they join EKM’s community.

SEO & Marketing: Tailored for the UK Market

Let’s not mince words: Google loves fast, locally-hosted websites, and so do your shoppers. EKM’s UK-first hosting keeps page loads nippy, slashing bounce rates and improving your chances in the rankings game. Having tested both platforms side by side, EKM shops consistently outperform on load times. Which means happier visitors and more conversions.

Better still, EKM’s marketing toolkit is actually designed for the UK market, whether you need help with local payment providers, custom tax setups, or British-centric email campaigns. You don’t have to force square pegs into round holes, or wait for US-based features to arrive months later.

What’s the Verdict?

Here’s the bottom line: for UK businesses, EKM isn’t just a substitute for Shopify. It’s a homegrown upgrade. With honest pricing, robust out-of-the-box tools, and a truly supportive team, you get more than just a website. You get a real advantage.

Think about where you want your business to be in a year. Stuck in a customer service queue half a world away, or trading stories with your account manager up north who actually knows your patch? Success is about partnerships, not just platforms.

Ready to give your business the local edge and the tools it deserves? Take EKM for a spin and find out what thousands of savvy British businesses already know: sometimes the grass really is greener on the home side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EKM truly all-inclusive? Are there any extra fees?

EKM offers a fixed monthly fee that includes hosting, support, SSL, and all main features right out the gate. Research as of mid-2025 confirms there are no transaction fees or hidden charges. Any optional extras, like premium templates, are clearly priced up front.

How easy is it to switch from Shopify to EKM?

Migrating is straightforward. Many UK businesses make the move every year with hands-on support from EKM’s team. They’ll even help transfer products, customer details, and domain setup, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal downtime.

Will EKM’s SEO tools help my shop stand out on Google UK?

Absolutely. EKM’s built-in SEO features are geared for the UK market. Everything from meta tags to structured data and local hosting. Fast load times and native UK support give you a leg up in the search rankings against international competitors.

Can I really get help from a dedicated UK account manager?

Yes. Every EKM merchant is paired with a local account manager, not just a generic help desk. This personal approach means your questions and strategy get expert attention from someone who knows your business and the UK retail landscape.

Are there real UK businesses thriving on EKM?

Definitely. Across sectors. From boutique fashion to local homeware. Thousands of British shops have made the switch and seen real results. Their success is a testament to the power of platform, people, and local know-how working together.

Ready to see what your business can achieve with the right support and a platform built for Britain? There’s never been a better moment to join the EKM community and let your growth speak for itself.