Shopify vs Custom Store in LatAm: When the Template Caps Growth
Shopify vs custom in LatAm 2026 — fees, Mercado Pago, B2B, and when five apps cost more than owned checkout.
Written and reviewed by Artem Palamarchuk, Founder of BLEX STUDIO.
When does Shopify stop being cheap in LatAm?
When plan + apps + gateway markup exceed a checkout that understands your rules. Themes are not the ceiling. B2B and ERP are.
Frequently asked questions
Sources
Store cost 2026
Next step with BLEX STUDIO
Message BLEX STUDIO.
Is Plus custom?
No. You still rent the platform.
Custom storefront cost?
Often 25,000–100,000 USD+.
Mercado Pago on custom?
Direct, yes. Name PCI and reconciliation.
SEO if we leave?
URL map: fine. Vanity slugs: not fine.
Keep Shopify admin?
Headless yes. Full custom means a new admin.