With the release of version 1.7, PrestaShop made several significant changes, one of which was the removal of warehouse management functionality (multi-store inventory). This decision raised many questions among users, and in this article, we will examine the reasons for this decision and suggest ways to solve the problem for online store owners.
Why PrestaShop Removed Warehouses
1. Simplification and Code Optimization: One of the main reasons for removing the warehouse functionality was the developers' desire to simplify and optimize the platform's codebase. The warehouse functionality added significant complexity to the architecture, making it difficult to support and develop the system.
2. Improved Performance: Removing warehouses allowed for better platform performance. Reducing redundant functionality helps speed up the website, which is especially important for large online stores with many products.
3. Focus on Core Features: PrestaShop developers decided to focus on improving the platform's core features, such as catalog management, SEO, and the user interface. Eliminating some specialized features allowed for the reallocation of resources to more priority tasks.
4. Low Popularity and Complexity for Beginners: The warehouse management functionality was not very popular among users. Many online store owners, especially beginners, found it too complicated and confusing. This created additional barriers for new users, which became another reason for removing this feature.
How to Address Warehouse Management in the New Version of PrestaShop
For users who need warehouse management functionality, there are several solutions:
1. Using Third-Party Modules: There are many modules on the market that can restore warehouse functionality in PrestaShop 1.7 and above. These modules allow you to manage multiple warehouses, track inventory, and automate replenishment processes.
2. Integration with External Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): For large stores, it may be advisable to integrate PrestaShop with professional warehouse management systems. Such systems offer more advanced capabilities than the built-in PrestaShop features.
3. Using the Multistore Feature: PrestaShop offers a built-in multistore feature that can be used to manage inventory across various warehouses. This feature allows you to create multiple stores within one PrestaShop installation, enabling you to manage inventory separately for each "store."
Example of Using the Multistore Feature
Let's consider an example of setting up and using the multistore feature to manage inventory:
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Enabling Multistore: In the PrestaShop admin panel, go to "Shop Parameters" > "General" and enable the multistore feature.
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Creating New Stores: In the "Advanced Parameters" > "Multistore" section, create new stores that will represent your warehouses. You can specify unique settings for each store, such as currencies, languages, and shipping parameters.
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Assigning Products to Stores: In the product card, add information about each store where the product is stored. Specify the quantity in stock (in the store) and set up replenishment rules.
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Monitoring and Management: Use the PrestaShop interface to track inventory in each store, manage transfers between stores, and create reports on stock levels.
Conclusion
The removal of warehouse functionality from PrestaShop 1.7 and above was aimed at simplifying and improving the platform. However, thanks to the multistore features and integrations with external systems, users can continue to effectively manage their inventory. Choosing the right solution depends on the specific needs of your business and the scale of your online store.
