How Much Does It Cost to Build an eCommerce App Like Carrefour?

In a world where convenience is king, and digital storefronts are becoming the mainstay, the traditional shopping experience is undergoing a monumental shift. Consumers today wish to balance the desire for a wide range of products with the convenience of easy access. This paves the way for eCommerce apps to act as dynamic solutions that address this issue and revolutionize how they shop.

These platforms have successfully transformed consumer behavior, offering everything from groceries to gadgets at the tap of a finger, leading to impressive revenue spikes and expansive market growth.

As a frontrunner in this digital revolution, Carrefour’s eCommerce app stands out as a stellar example of capturing and captivating the digital consumer market, particularly in the Middle East and Europe. With its intuitive design, seamless user interface, and a vast array of products, Carrefour has not just met but exceeded customer expectations.

For businesses looking to carve out their space in the eCommerce landscape, understanding the cost to develop an app like Carrefour is crucial. Developing such a sophisticated platform can cost anywhere from $30,000 to $250,000 (EUR 27,500 to EUR 230,000) or (AED 110183 to AED 918192). This significant variance in cost is influenced by several factors, including the complexity of the app’s features, the choice of technology, the required scalability, and the expertise of the development team, all of which we will understand in detail later.

This blog will dive into the exact cost required to build an eCommerce app like Carrefour. We will also cover the must-have features, key technology choices, and important strategic decisions that affect your app’s scalability and success. Whether you are just starting or looking to grow your existing business, the insights here will help you make smart choices on your eCommerce journey.

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A Small Glimpse into the Carrefour eCommerce App

The Carrefour eCommerce app originated in France and became a beacon of retail innovation. Available across various European nations and extended to the Middle East, this platform allows consumers to navigate multiple products from the comfort of their homes effortlessly.

The app features an intuitive interface, providing easy access to categories ranging from daily groceries to high-tech electronics. Users can explore and purchase items such as smartphones, tablets, wearables, beauty products, baby items, and much more, making it a comprehensive solution for everyday needs.

With features designed to enhance user experience, such as personalized recommendations, real-time stock updates, and seamless checkout processes, Carrefour’s app caters to a wide demographic, ensuring a satisfying shopping experience for all its users.

The app’s success in the Middle East and European markets is evident from its impressive figures, boasting a revenue of $94.4 billion in 2024 and a market capitalization of $9.6 billion. This success is a testament to the app’s ability to effectively meet consumer demands and adapt to varying market trends. The brand’s deployment across key regions has expanded its market presence and set a high standard for digital retail innovation.

At the same time, the eCommerce market is also projected to reach a valuation of $5.89 trillion by 2029. This expanding sector presents a golden opportunity for businesses aiming to carve out their niche in the digital world. Investing in an eCommerce app similar to Carrefour can provide substantial returns, making it a wise move for businesses looking to capitalize on the digital shopping trend.

How Much Does it Cost to Develop an App Like Carrefour?

As revealed earlier, building an app like Carrefour requires a substantial investment, with development costs ranging from $30,000 to $250,000. This wide range reflects the diverse requirements and scales of potential projects.

The development cost of building an eCommerce app like Carrefour is influenced by various factors, including the scale of the app, the target platforms like iOS, Android, or the web, and the complexity of the features implemented.

To simplify your understanding of the potential costs, here’s a formula you can use:

This formula calculates the cost based on the total time developers spend on the project and their hourly rate.

Based on this, let us now offer you a brief overview of the estimated costs and time required for each development stage:

• Research (2-4 weeks): Costs between $2,000 to $10,000.
• Design (1-2 months): Costs range from $5,000 to $20,000.
• Development (3-6 months): The most resource-intensive phase, costing between $20,000 to $150,000.
• Testing (1-2 months): Costs from $10,000 to $50,000.
• Deployment (1 month): This final step costs between $5,000 to $20,000
• Maintenance (Ongoing): Monthly costs range from $1,000 to $10,000.

Let’s dive deeper and move forward to explore the factors that can significantly influence the cost to develop an app like Carrefour in one way or another.

Factors Affecting the Development Cost of an eCommerce Platform like Carrefour

The cost to develop an app like Carrefour can be influenced by several key factors. Understanding these can help you better estimate the financial investment required and plan your project accordingly.

Feature Complexity

The more complex the features you want to include, such as real-time tracking, AI-based recommendations, or augmented reality shopping experiences, the higher the development cost due to the increased time and expertise required.

App Scalability

If you intend for your app to handle large volumes of transactions and users from the start, developing a scalable system will require more resources and advanced technologies, increasing the overall eCommerce mobile app cost estimation.

Customization Level

Custom-built solutions tailored to specific business needs or customer experiences can significantly drive up the development cost of an eCommerce platform like Carrefour in the UK compared to standard off-the-shelf components.

Integration with Existing Systems

Integrating the new app with existing databases, CRM systems, or ERP solutions can be complex and add to the overall costs to create a shopping app like Carrefour, especially if the existing systems are outdated or use different technology standards.

Security Measures

Implementing advanced security protocols to protect user data and transactions, particularly for payment processing, adds to the complexity and cost of the project.

UI/UX Design

A highly intuitive and engaging user interface and user experience design require skilled designers and more elaborate prototyping, which can escalate the costs of building an ecommerce app like Carrefour.

Multiple Platform Support

Developing the app to function seamlessly across multiple platforms like iOS, Android or more involves additional design and development efforts, which can multiply the overall cost to develop an app like Carrefour.

Marketing and Launch Strategy

Effective marketing campaigns and launch strategies, essential for the app’s success, require investment in promotional activities, which should be factored into the overall budget.

After looking into the major factors affecting eCommerce mobile app development cost, let us look into the various strategies to help businesses like yours optimize their costs.

Strategies to Optimize the Cost to Build a Shopping App Like Carrefour

Developing a shopping app like Carrefour involves significant investment, but there are strategic ways to manage and optimize the eCommerce mobile app cost estimation. By implementing thoughtful strategies, businesses can balance functionality and budget efficiency.

Prioritize Core Features

Concentrate on essential features initially to control shopping app development costs and avoid spending on non-essential functionality.

Lean Development Approach

Begin with a minimum viable product (MVP) to gather user feedback early and make informed updates, saving time and resources.

Outsource Development

Partner with a dedicated eCommerce app development company to significantly cut labor expenses associated with in-house hiring without sacrificing quality.

Also Read: How to Outsource App Development? A Comprehensive Guide Outlining Benefits, Process, Risks & More

Utilize Open Source Tools

Employ open-source technologies to eliminate software licensing fees while benefiting from robust community support.

Cloud Services

Implement cloud solutions to scale with demand efficiently, keeping upfront infrastructure costs to build a shopping app like Carrefour low.

Automate Testing

Integrate automated testing processes to speed up quality assurance and reduce long-term shopping app development costs associated with the testing.

Effective Project Management

Maintain tight project management to avoid delays and manage resources efficiently, reducing the risk of budget overruns.

After looking into the various factors that impact the cost to develop an app like Carrefour and the strategies that can bring down the overall Carrefour app development costs, let’s move ahead and look into the key features to build a shopping app like Carrefour.

Key Features of a Shopping App Like Carrefour

Developing an app like Carrefour involves incorporating features that cater to user convenience and administrative efficiency. These features ensure a seamless shopping experience and effective store management.

User-Side Features

User-side features of a shopping app like Carrefour are designed to enhance the shopping experience, making it intuitive and user-friendly:

Essential User-Side Features to Include in an App Like Carrefour

• User Registration/Login: Allows users to create profiles and login to access personalized services and offers.
• Product Search and Filters: Enables users to quickly find products using keywords and apply filters for more precise results.
• Shopping Cart: Provides users with a space to store selected items before final purchase, facilitating multiple purchases in one session.
• Payment Integration: Offers multiple payment options, including credit cards, digital wallets, and cash on delivery to accommodate all users.

• Order Tracking: This lets users track their orders in real-time from processing to delivery, enhancing transparency.
• Customer Support and Chat: Offers in-app support for inquiries and issues, improving user satisfaction and loyalty.
• Order Scheduling: Allows the users to schedule orders at their convenience.

Admin-Side Features

Admin-side features to build a shopping app like Carrefour focus on facilitating efficient store and inventory management for administrators:

• Dashboard: A comprehensive overview of ongoing processes, inventory levels, and user activity to help manage operations efficiently.
• Inventory Management: Tools to add, update, or remove products, track stock levels, and manage supply chains.
• Order Management: Enables admins to view and manage customer orders, process returns, and handle refunds efficiently.
• User Management: Allows for managing user profiles, issues, and feedback, ensuring responsive customer service.
• Analytics and Reporting: Provides valuable insights into sales data, customer behavior, and inventory trends to help make informed decisions.

• Promotions and Discounts Management: Tools to create and manage promotions and discounts directly through the app, driving sales and customer engagement.

After you have an idea of the basic features of the Carrefour app, let us offer you a quick insight into the advanced features you can integrate into your eCommerce app, like MAF Carrefour, to make it stand out.

Innovative Features Businesses Can Add in an eCommerce App to Make It Stand Out

Adding unique and advanced features to an eCommerce app in this competitive digital marketplace can significantly enhance its appeal and functionality. By integrating innovative features, businesses can attract more users and provide a richer, more engaging shopping experience.

Nevertheless, it is also vital for businesses to understand that the overall cost to develop an app like Carrefour can be affected by implementing the advanced features mentioned below.

A dedicated eCommerce app development services firm like Appinventiv can help businesses integrate advanced features in their eCommerce app while optimizing costs at all stages of development.

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How to Build an App Like Carrefour?

Developing an eCommerce app like MAF Carrefour requires a systematic approach to ensure that every aspect of the app is well thought out and executed. Following a structured development process in partnership with a leading mobile app development company in the UK like Appinventiv can help streamline the creation of a complex app and ensure its success in the competitive market.

Conceptualization and Market Research

Start by defining the app’s concept and conducting thorough market research to understand customer needs, competition, and market trends. This step helps refine the app’s features and overall strategy.

Planning and Strategy Development

Develop a detailed project plan including timelines, budgets, and resources needed. This plan serves as a roadmap for the entire development process and helps align the team’s efforts.

UX/UI Design

Design the user interface and user experience, focusing on making the app intuitive and engaging. Good design is crucial as it directly affects user retention and satisfaction.

Technical Architecture and Backend Development

Establish the technical framework and develop the backend infrastructure, which includes setting up servers, databases, and ensuring data flows properly throughout the app.

Frontend Development

Code the frontend part of the app where users interact. This step requires close collaboration between designers and developers to ensure the app’s functionality matches its design. This phase of the development process can ultimately affect the overall cost to develop an app like Carrefour.

Integration of Third-Party Services

Integrate necessary third-party services like payment gateways, analytics tools, and external APIs that enhance the app’s capabilities and performance.

Testing and Quality Assurance

Rigorously test the app to find and fix bugs. Testing phases like unit testing, integration testing, and user acceptance testing are critical to ensure the app runs smoothly.

Deployment

Once the app is tested and ready, deploy it to the respective app stores or markets. Ensure all deployment guidelines are met to avoid any launch issues.

Post-Launch Support and Maintenance

After launching, continuously monitor the app for issues and gather user feedback for further improvements. Regular updates and maintenance are needed to keep the app relevant and functioning optimally.

Now that you have looked into the major steps involved in “How to build an app like Carrefour”, let’s move ahead and learn how apps like these generate revenue.

How Do Apps Like Carrefour Make Money?

Apps like MAF Carrefour are not just digital storefronts but are sophisticated platforms designed to optimize profitability through various monetization strategies. These strategies are key to sustaining the business model while providing value to users. Businesses can partner with a leading eCommerce app development company to understand what revenue model suits their app the best.

Sales Revenue

The primary source of income is generated from selling products directly through the app. This includes groceries, electronics, home goods, and more.

Subscription Fees

Offers premium features such as early access to sales, exclusive discounts, or free delivery through a subscription model.

Advertisements

Generates revenue by displaying ads from third-party companies within the app, including banner ads or sponsored product listings.

Affiliate Marketing

Earns commissions by promoting other bands or products within the app, receiving a percentage of sales made through affiliate links.

Data Monetization

Utilizes user data insights to improve marketing strategies or sells anonymized data to third parties interested in market trends.

In-App Purchases

Offers additional services or features within the app, such as extended warranties, gift wrapping, or special customization options for an extra fee.

How Appinventiv is the Right Development Partner for Developing an App Like Carrefour

We hope this blog has helped you understand the cost to develop an app like Carrefour. If you are ready to dive into the eCommerce market, choosing the right development partner is crucial, and Appinventiv could be the perfect match for your project.

Partnering with Appinventiv offers distinct advantages when venturing into creating complex eCommerce applications. As a leading mobile app development company in the UK, our approach is about having expertise and delivering a tailored experience that aligns with your business goals. We understand that each project is unique, and we thrive on transforming unique visions into digital realities.

At Appinventiv, we pride ourselves on our innovative approach to solving problems. We don’t just build apps but also create enhanced user experiences that keep customers returning. Our team stays ahead of the curve with the latest technological advancements, ensuring that your app meets current market trends and sets new benchmarks.

Moreover, our commitment to your success goes beyond the launch. We provide ongoing support and insights from real user data to continually refine and improve the application. This proactive approach ensures your app remains competitive and continues to grow in a rapidly evolving digital marketplace.

For instance, we collaborated with the world’s most renowned sports merchandise brand, Adidas to revamp its digital presence. The eCommerce app developed by our experts for Adidas resulted as the first point of purchase for the users and bagged 500k new users. The app was further able to witness more than 2 million downloads.

Our experts also developed Edamama, a dedicated eCommerce app that allows users, especially busy mothers, to enjoy a hassle-free, personalized shopping journey. The platform offers tailored products, smart search recommendations, and an interactive community where moms can share experiences and insights, fostering trust and convenience in their daily lives.

The app witnessed $5 million in funding and bagged over 100k+ new users.

Contact us to develop an eCommerce app that sets the foundation for sustained success in the digital economy.

FAQs

Q. How much does it cost to develop an app like Carrefour? 

A. The cost to develop an app like Carrefour can vary widely, typically ranging from $30,000 to $250,000 (EUR 27,500 to EUR 230,000) or (AED 110183 to AED 918192). This overall budget depends on several factors, including the complexity of the features you wish to include, the scalability of the app, and the platforms it will support.

More sophisticated features like real-time analytics, AI-driven personalization, and multi-language support can significantly increase the development cost of building an eCommerce app like Carrefour.

Q. How long does it take to develop an app like Carrefour? 

A. Developing an app like Carrefour usually takes anywhere from 6 to 12 months. The timeframe can be extended based on the app’s complexity, the number of platforms it will be available on, and the depth of testing required. This period paves the way for thorough planning, design, development, and several stages of testing to ensure a robust and effective eCommerce platform.

Q. What are some of the benefits of developing an eCommerce app for businesses? 

A. Developing an eCommerce app can offer numerous benefits for businesses, including:

• Increased Reach: Allows businesses to expand their customer base geographically without needing physical stores.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: Provides a convenient shopping experience with features like search filters, wish lists, and easy checkout that enhance user satisfaction.
• Higher Sales Potential: Facilitates up-sell and cross-sell opportunities through personalized recommendations and promotions.
• Improved Brand Presence: Strengthens brand recognition and loyalty by offering a branded, interactive user experience.
• Data Insights: Offers valuable data on customer behavior, preferences, and buying patterns, enabling better business decisions.