Hey Guyes, This is Rubyat and Today, I will show you how to create a free multi-vendor marketplace on your WordPress website in 2024. With the help of specific plugins and best compatible themes, you can easily set up your own online marketplace where multiple vendors can sell their products.
In this blog, I will guide you through the process of installing the necessary plugins, configuring the settings, choosing a suitable theme, and creating products as a vendor. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Installing WooCommerce
The first step is to install the WooCommerce plugin. WooCommerce is a popular e-commerce solution for WordPress websites. To install it, go to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the “Plugins” section. Click on “Add New” and search for “WooCommerce”. Install and activate the plugin.
Step 2: Installing the Multi-Vendor Plugin
Next, we need to install a multi-vendor plugin. In this tutorial, we will use the “Dokan Lite” plugin. Search for “Dokan Lite” in the plugin search bar and install the free version of the plugin. Once activated, there will be a setup wizard for the admin to configure the plugin.
Step 3: Configuring the Token
In the setup wizard, you need to configure the token. Set the store URL, commission percentage, payment methods for vendors, and other settings according to your preferences. Once you have completed the setup, your store will be ready to go.
Step 4: Choosing a Compatible Theme
To enhance the look and functionality of your marketplace, it is recommended to choose a compatible theme. In this tutorial, we will use the “Astra” theme, which offers a wide range of free templates.
Install the Astra theme from your WordPress theme menu and import the starter template plugin. You can select any template that suits your needs.
Step 5: Registering as a Vendor
After setting up the admin panel and installing the theme, you can register as a vendor on your marketplace. Visit the WooCommerce “My Account” page and enter your details, including email address, password, first name, last name, shop name, and shop URL.
The shop URL needs to be unique.
Step 6: Creating Products as a Vendor
As a vendor, you can easily create products from the frontend of your website. Simply enter the product name, price, discount price (if applicable), and upload a featured image.
You can also add gallery images, write a description, enable stock management, and customize other product settings. Once you have created a product, it will be pending review by the admin.
Step 7: Admin Approval and Product Publishing
The admin can review and approve the vendor’s products from the backend. Once approved, the products will be published on the vendor’s store page and ready for sale. Customers can visit the store page, browse through the products, and make purchases.
Step 8: Making a Test Purchase
To demonstrate the commission and withdrawal process, you can register as a customer and make a test purchase. After registering, visit the shop page, select a product, and proceed to checkout.
Please note that in this blog, we have not set up any payment gateway, so you can simulate the checkout process without actually making a payment.
Step 9: Enabling a Payment Gateway
In order to accept payments from customers, you need to enable a payment gateway. Depending on your website’s requirements, you can choose from various WooCommerce-compatible payment gateways such as PayPal, Stripe, or Bank Transfer.
In this tutorial, we have enabled the Cash on Delivery option as an offline payment method.
Step 10: Vendor Dashboard and Order Management
As a vendor, you will have access to a clean and user-friendly dashboard. From the vendor dashboard, you can manage your products, view orders, and update order statuses.
You can also add shipping tracking numbers for customers’ reference. Additionally, the vendor can request a withdrawal of their earnings, which needs to be approved by the admin.
Conclusion
Creating a multi-window marketplace on your WordPress website is now easier than ever. By installing plugins like WooCommerce and Dokan Lite, configuring the settings, choosing a suitable theme, and creating products as a vendor, you can set up your own online marketplace without any financial investment.
Whether you are a small business owner or an individual looking to sell products online, this tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to help you get started. Happy selling!
