Manukora
TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION
MIGRATION
SHOPIFY DEVELOPMENT
SHOPIFY PLUS
Manukora is a leading Manuka honey brand based in New Zealand, known for its high-quality products and global export capabilities. As part of their global expansion strategy, Manukora aimed to enter the MENA region, starting with the UAE.
The Challenge
Manukora identified the MENA region, particularly the UAE, as a high-potential market to expand into due to its large expat population and English language coverage. However, the expansion faced several challenges:
Market Entry Strategy
Deciding between Shopify Markets and a Shopify Plus Expansion store. Localisation
Although English is prevalent, the UAE Manukora website had to feature Arabic, accommodating right-to-left (RTL) language requirements. Cost Efficiency
The objective of the UAE launch is to launch lean to manage costs effectively.
The Approach
Atlas Studios worked closely with Manukora to navigate these challenges and develop a robust solution that achieved all of the business objectives.
1. Shopify Plus Expansion Store
Strategic Guidance
After thorough scoping, we concluded that Shopify Markets would not meet the lean implementation objectives due its limited out of the box feature set and the need for custom development. A Shopify Plus expansion store was chosen as the correct approach. Base Theme Utilisation and Cost Efficiencies
The new UAE site was developed using the same base theme as the global site to ensure brand consistency and efficiency. Certain apps and features were stripped down to launch a leaner version of the site, passing on cost efficiencies to the client.
2. Localisation and Arabic Language Support
3PL Implementation
Integrated a local third-party logistics provider to handle regional fulfilment. Arabic Content Integration
Enabled capture of specific market-based profile properties through custom server-side and client-side tracking.
The Result
Operational Efficiency
Manukora now has a localised UAE website that is aligned with its global brand, facilitating easier content management and updates across UAE and the wider MENA region.Market Readiness
The UAE site serves as a test ground for the MENA region, with plans to expand into Saudi Arabia and beyond.Cost Savings
The streamlined approach ensured the project was completed on time and within budget, maximising resource efficiency.