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Do not index
Do not index
As Webflow’s new app marketplace and developer platform launches, it’s becoming increasingly clear: Integrations are shaping the future of growth, not just for indie devs but also for established SaaS companies.
This article dives into a specific niche: integration opportunities in website builders. It focuses on market opportunities, user size, and competition. So without further ado, let's get to it.
WordPress
WordPress is a digital juggernaut that has welcomed third-party developers through its plugin architecture since 2004. Powering an astounding 43% of all websites, its user base ranges from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.
Marketplace Fast Facts
- Launched: 2004
- Websites: 810 Million
- Plugins: 50,000+
The opportunity:
WordPress's flexible platform is a playground for developer innovation, powering everything from blogs to eCommerce.
While there's a review process for plugins, the marketplace is cluttered with less-maintained options. Quality and trust are your tickets to standing out.
Resources:
- Official Plugin Handbook: Your go-to guide for plugin development.
- Beginner’s guide to creating a WordPress plugin: A solid primer on getting started with WordPress plugins by DreamHost.
- Video Tutorial: For visual learners, a solid guide to creating your first WordPress Plugin.
Webflow
Webflow is a modern design and development platform that enables users to design, build, and launch websites visually. With a strong focus on responsive design and custom animations, Webflow is particularly popular among designers and agencies. They also just relaunched their app marketplace making it a ripe integration opportunity to explore.
Marketplace Fast Facts
- Launched: 2023
- Users: 3.5 million+
- Sites: 2.2 million+
- Apps: 20+
The opportunity:
With its 2023 launch, Webflow's marketplace is a prime space for early adopters to stand out. The limited number of apps in the marketplace makes it easier for new, high-quality integrations to get noticed and gain traction quickly.
Webflow’s forums are rich with insights on demand. Plus, Webflow is open to co-marketing, offering another avenue to gain visibility.
Resources:
- Webflow app docs: The official resource for building apps in Webflow
Shopify
Shopify is a leading platform in the e-commerce space, enabling merchants to scale their businesses effortlessly. With a diverse app store that covers everything from marketing to inventory management, it provides a ripe environment for specialized apps to flourish.
Marketplace Fast Facts
- Launched: 2009
- Merchants: 1.7 million+
- Apps: 8,000+
The opportunity:
Shopify's App Store presents a golden opportunity for developers. In 2020, Shopify partners, including app developers, theme builders, and agencies, collectively earned $12.5 billion —a staggering figure four times Shopify’s own revenue. If your app can address the unique needs of e-commerce sellers, this marketplace offers an exceptional opportunity to stand out and generate significant revenue.
Resources:
- Shopify App Docs: Your go-to for technical specifications
- The Complete Guide to Building a Shopify App: An in-depth official resource from Shopify.
- How to create a Shopify app (2023): An updated video guide for building your app.
Wix
Wix is a very prominent player in the website-building arena, offering businesses and individuals a user-friendly way to create and manage their online presence. Its drag-and-drop builder is especially popular among those without technical know-how, making it a great place to offer specialized apps or plugins.
Marketplace Fast Facts
- Launched: 2012
- Users: 220 Million
- Apps: 300+
The opportunity:
Wix offers 100% revenue share in year one. The app market is less saturated but shows growth from companies like Smile, Shippo, and Printful. The platform is ideal for standout integrations and actively informs developers about high-demand categories like e-commerce and SEO.
Resources:
- Wix Developers: Your go-to guide for Wix app development
- Create a third-party app for the Wix App Market: General overview of creating Wix apps
- Build and sell on the app market: A video guide to building and selling on the App Market.
Ones to watch
Framer, Ghost, and Squarespace currently limit third-party integrations to private submissions. Even though they're not in this article, don't rule them out. If you have a SaaS, you could pitch directly to them. Also, watch these platforms—they might open up soon.
That's it for now! This is just a teaser of some promising platforms but if you’re interested in more of these kinds of dives, let us know.
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