Cost Breakdown for Developing an App Like Zalando

Last Updated on October 28, 2024

Building an eCommerce app like Zalando can be an exciting venture, offering entrepreneurs a chance to tap into the booming online shopping market. However, launching a successful eCommerce platform requires strategic planning, smart budgeting, and understanding the features and technology that create a top-tier user experience. Zalando’s app is known for its seamless interface, personalized recommendations, and user-friendly checkout process, which have made it a leader in fashion eCommerce across Europe.  

In this blog, we’ll break down the costs, core features, and key considerations involved in developing an app of this caliber, giving you a roadmap to enter and compete in the e-commerce space confidently. 

Features to Create an App like Zalando 

When developing an app like Zalando, incorporating certain key eCommerce app features is essential for creating a seamless, engaging shopping experience that attracts and retains customers. Here are the standout features that contribute to Zalando’s success in the highly competitive eCommerce industry:

1. Personalized Recommendations: Zalando’s machine learning-based recommendation engine tailors product suggestions to each user, boosting engagement and driving sales. This approach aligns with industry findings where 71% of consumers expect personalized communications from brands.
2. Advanced Product Search and Filtering: A robust search engine paired with extensive filtering options is key in an eCommerce app. Zalando’s advanced search enables users to find products by categories such as size, color, price, and brand, streamlining the shopping experience. This feature is particularly helpful for users browsing through a large catalog. 
3. Easy Checkout and Multiple Payment Options: A frictionless checkout process can significantly reduce cart abandonment. Zalando integrates popular payment options such as PayPal, credit cards, and digital wallets, simplifying the process. 
4. Order Tracking and Management: Users expect transparency on the status of their orders. Zalando’s order tracking and management feature provides real-time updates on orders, enhancing trust and reducing customer inquiries. 
5. User Profiles with Saved Items: Zalando enables users to save items, allowing them to revisit products of interest without needing to search again. This feature makes it easy to keep track of preferred items and simplifies the decision-making process. 
6. Push Notifications: Timely notifications inform users of new arrivals, exclusive offers, and sale events, helping Zalando maintain active engagement. Personalized notifications add value and encourage users to return to the app regularly. 

Cost Factors in Developing a Zalando-like App

Estimating the development costs of an app like Zalando involves analyzing numerous factors, including the features you want, the app’s design, the team you hire, and the platforms you target. Here are some key components that will impact your budget: 

Platform Selection (iOS, Android, or Both)

Choosing the right platform is a key factor influencing the true cost of developing an eCommerce app. Opting for a single platform, such as iOS or Android, can reduce initial costs. However, many businesses target both platforms to reach a larger audience, which can be more expensive if native development is chosen due to the need for separate codebases. Native apps often deliver a superior user experience, justifying the additional cost for a quality eCommerce application.

Essential and Advanced Features

The complexity and scope of your features are major cost drivers. Zalando’s eCommerce platform includes everything from basic functionality like a product catalog and checkout system to advanced features like personalized recommendations. Features like augmented reality (AR) or artificial intelligence (AI)-driven recommendations can also elevate the user experience and brand but at a higher cost. 

User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Design:

A smooth, visually appealing design is essential to compete with platforms like Amazon, Alibaba, and other global eCommerce giants. A well-designed UI/UX ensures ease of navigation, engagement, and brand differentiation. Custom design work by experienced UI/UX designers can add significant value to your app but also comes with a premium cost. 

Third-Party Integrations:

Integrations are a cornerstone of a feature-rich app. Platforms like Cash App or Stripe, for example, streamline the payment process, while various shipping and analytics providers help manage oders and gather actionable data. Integration with third-party APIs incurs both licensing and development costs, which depend on the provider and complexity of implementation. 

Development Team Location and Rates

Development costs can vary greatly depending on where your team is located. Hiring developers in North America or Western Europe might cost between $100 and $200 per hour, whereas developers in Eastern Europe, South Asia, or Latin America could charge between $30 and $70 per hour. Quality and expertise should guide this decision since a high-caliber team, regardless of location, will be more efficient. 

Quality Assurance (QA) and Testing

Proper QA and testing are critical to ensure a robust, user-friendly app. Testing an eCommerce app involves evaluating various devices, screen sizes, and functionalities, especially around payment processing and order management. An extensive QA phase reduces the risk of bugs and enhances the app’s reliability, but it adds to the cost and time. 

Also Read: Cost Factors in Developing an App Like Ozsale

Detailed Cost Breakdown

Below is a feature-by-feature breakdown with estimated time and costs for developing an app like Zalando. 

1. User Authentication and Profile Management

• Estimated Cost: $5,000 – $8,000 
• Time: 80 – 150 hours 
• Description: Secure user registration and login systems (using email, social logins, etc.) that allow users to save items, track orders, and manage their accounts. 

2. Product Catalog and Search Engine

• Estimated Cost: $20,000 – $35,000 
• Time: 300 – 500 hours 
• Description: A detailed product catalog with advanced filters and a powerful search engine to improve the discoverability of items based on various attributes like size, color, and brand. 

3. Personalized Recommendations Engine

• Estimated Cost: $15,000 – $30,000 
• Time: 200 – 300 hours 
• Description: Machine learning-driven recommendations to provide a more customized shopping experience. This feature requires data processing and AI integration, which boosts user engagement but is time-intensive. 

4. Shopping Cart and Checkout System

• Estimated Cost: $10,000 – $15,000 
• Time: 200 – 300 hours 
• Description: An optimized shopping cart and checkout experience, including promo codes, quantity management, and multiple delivery options. 

5. Payment Gateway Integration

• Estimated Cost: $8,000 – $15,000 
• Time: 100 – 200 hours 
• Description: Secure payment gateway integration with providers like Stripe or PayPal to handle transactions. Payment processing must be secure and user-friendly. 

6. Push Notifications and In-App Messaging

• Estimated Cost: $4,000 – $7,000 
• Time: 80 – 150 hours 
• Description: A push notification system to inform users of new arrivals, promotions, and order updates, which enhances engagement and retention. 

7. Order History and Tracking

• Estimated Cost: $5,000 – $10,000 
• Time: 100 – 150 hours 
• Description: Enabling users to view order history, track shipments, and manage orders post-purchase, which improves the user experience and adds a touch of convenience. 

8. Admin Dashboard and Analytics

• Estimated Cost: $10,000 – $20,000 
• Time: 200 – 300 hours 
• Description: A back-end dashboard for managing products, tracking sales, and accessing analytics. Real-time insights into app performance are essential for adjusting marketing and product strategies. 

9. Augmented Reality for Virtual Try-On (Optional)

• Estimated Cost: $30,000 – $50,000
• Time: 500 – 700 hours 
• Description: AR in ecommerce is gaining popularity, especially for virtual try-ons in fashion and furniture eCommerce. This feature enhances engagement and reduces return rates, though it does require advanced technology and a considerable budget to implement effectively.

Additional Expenses: Maintenance, Marketing, and Legal Compliance 

• Maintenance and Updates: Keeping your app current with the latest OS and device requirements, fixing bugs, and adding new features can cost around 15-20% of the initial development cost per year.
• Marketing and Launch Expenses: Marketing efforts to raise brand awareness and attract users can range widely based on strategy. Budgeting between $10,000 to $50,000 for digital marketing campaigns, influencer partnerships, and user acquisition can be impactful.
• Legal and Compliance Costs: eCommerce apps need to comply with regulations like GDPR for user data protection. Consulting a legal expert to ensure compliance typically costs between $5,000 and $15,000. 

Build an App like Zalando with Oyelabs 

Partnering with Oyelabs can help you build an app like Zalando, complete with advanced features, sleek design, and optimized performance. Oyelabs specializes in developing high-quality eCommerce apps, leveraging cutting-edge technology to create personalized recommendations, seamless checkout, and user-friendly interfaces tailored to your brand. With a team experienced in developing eCommerce apps, Oyelabs brings innovation and efficiency to every project, ensuring your app stands out in the competitive market. Whether you’re targeting fashion, home goods, or another niche, Oyelabs provides a customized, end-to-end solution to transform your eCommerce vision into a successful, customer-focused reality.

Conclusion 

Estimating the cost to build an app like Zalando is complex, with factors including the platform, feature set, integrations, and maintenance all contributing to the final budget. Starting with a clear roadmap and a minimum viable product (MVP) can make your app launch more feasible while allowing room for additional features later. With a well-planned strategy, strong team, and budget optimization, your eCommerce app can stand out in the competitive online retail space. So, if you’re looking to launch your eCommerce app, collaborate with Oyelabs for some amazing experience.  

Also Read: Cost to Develop an App Like Zalando