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A clear vision, a compact team
Mercer is known for its sustainable sneakers made from materials like pineapple leather, recycled suede, and more recently, grape leather. But the brand also designs clothing in-house, from design to production. This level of creative control, combined with a strong brand identity, demands an e-commerce platform that can keep up. “We have a small team and want to do as much as possible ourselves,” says Juul. “Our old platform simply didn’t allow that. Every change required outside help.”
Switching to Shopify changed everything. “Now we can make last-minute adjustments, analyze performance, and optimize on the go. Everything is faster, more intuitive, and we’re in control. It’s a complete game changer.”
From strategy to execution: a smooth replatforming
The decision to move to Shopify had already been made before Juul and Arjan joined the project, but both were involved in executing it from the start. Arjan led the technical side of the replatforming: “They were using an overly complex platform that no longer matched the scale at which Mercer was operating. Shopify offered the scalability and flexibility they needed: especially for international growth.”
One of the biggest advantages was usability. “We wanted to be independent from developers,” Arjan explains. “With Shopify, marketers can change banners or launch collections themselves, no technical knowledge required. That enables fast execution and quick testing of new ideas.”
Partnering with Code: from tech support to strategic sparring
Code supported Mercer not only with the technical implementation of Shopify, but also with strategic advice and ongoing optimization. “We handle the daily operations,” says Juul, “but when technical issues arise, we solve them together with Arjan and Code. I act as a link between operations and tech.”
These short lines of communication ensure agility without compromising quality. And because the team wants to stay lean, automation plays a key role. “The less you have to do manually, the more relaxed your holiday can be,” Juul laughs. Automation and scalability go hand in hand at Mercer.
Standard where possible, custom where needed
Shopify is a SaaS solution and comes with its own limitations. But Arjan sees that as a benefit rather than a drawback. “It forces you to rethink your processes. Are we doing this because it’s effective, or just because it’s how we’ve always done it? Simplifying and standardizing processes actually makes things more scalable and more robust.”
Juul agrees. “We’re always looking at how to make processes smarter. That gives us peace of mind and room to grow.”
Looking ahead
With a stable, scalable platform and a nimble team, Mercer is ready for what’s next. More physical stores, new product lines, international expansion: it’s all within reach. Shopify offers the flexibility and speed to support that journey. And with Code as their technical partner, Mercer is well equipped to take the next step.
Looking for an experienced Shopify partner?
We’re proud that Code was named one of the best e-commerce agencies in the Netherlands in the 2025 Emerce100. A great recognition of the work we do together with our clients.
Looking for a Shopify agency to help with a replatforming or a new store? We build and optimise Shopify stores at the highest level. Get in touch.
Subscribe to the Code Commerce Club podcast
Code Commerce Club is the podcast where you’ll learn how to grow your brand’s e-commerce success. Hosted by Robin Huizing, produced by Code, and made possible by Shopify.
Listen to the full conversation with Juul Vlaanderen and Arjan Hoeks on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Want to stay up to date on new episodes? Subscribe to our Code Commerce Club newsletter or follow us in your favourite podcast app. Found the episode valuable? We’d love your review.
