Updates, e-commerce law, and practical knowledge for your online store.

The store software is just one of ten cost categories: hosting, payment processing fees, apps, legal documents, packaging licenses, and marketing are also included. This article includes sample calculations for small and medium-sized stores, details on hidden fees, and a checklist for comparing offers.

Generative Engine Optimization complements SEO: question-based headings, fact boxes, structured data, and accessible AI crawlers make store content citable by ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Mode.

The BFSG has been in effect since June 28, 2025—with no transition period for online stores until 2030. One year later: active market surveillance, first warning letters, and fines of up to €100,000. What really applies and how to test your store.

In XONIC 4.10, the most important categories are featured as highlights in the menu bar, while all others are listed under “More Categories”—on mobile devices as swipeable tiles and in a new side menu.

With XONIC 4.10, questions and answers from the FAQ system appear directly on the product page—globally, by category, by manufacturer, or by product—and are readable by AI search engines.

AI-generated answers are now part of everyday Google Search: AI Overviews and AI Mode are live in the DACH region. What this means for how-to guides, category pages, and product pages—and how online stores are now measuring and responding.

The EU Data Act has been in effect for a year—and it has had little impact on many retailers. Is that fair? Those who sell connected products have long been subject to disclosure requirements—and the next phase takes effect on September 12, 2026.

Online Christmas sales in 2025 totaled approximately €22.2 billion. If you want to capitalize on the 2026 holiday season, start planning now: the timeline from September through December for product assortment, content, technology, shipping, and marketing.

Labeling chatbots, disclosing AI content: The transparency requirements of the AI Regulation have been in effect since August 2, 2026. What online retailers need to do now—and which requirements have been postponed to 2027/2028.

A phone call instead of waiting in line for a ticket, developers instead of a call center: How to recognize good e-commerce platform support—including a list of questions for the selection interview.

Transaction fees and revenue share increase with every sale. The sample calculation shows the revenue threshold at which fixed-price models become more cost-effective—using a rule of thumb.

The European wallet Wero can now also be used in online retail. How much it costs, how to integrate it into your store, why Stripe isn't the right solution for this in Germany—and when the effort is worth it.

GDPR compliance stems from software, hosting, and processes. This guide explains what features an e-commerce platform must have—and why the server location matters.

XONIC 4.9.0 is here: 20 new features and 46 fixes—with a focus on the new EU information requirements, which will take effect on September 27, 2026, without a transition period. The store automatically displays the harmonized warranty notice in all required locations and includes the EU-GARAN label for durability guarantees—complete with a checklist in the backend that helps you approve your products on time.

The EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) has been in effect since August 12, 2026—but the well-known 50% empty space rule does not take effect until 2030. What really applies now, what’s coming in 2028 and 2030, and how retailers are making the most of the transition period.

Customer groups, net prices, tiered pricing, VAT ID verification, and ERP integration: What really matters when choosing a B2B e-commerce platform—with a comparison chart and FAQs.

With three new analytics, Sistrix makes it possible to measure how ChatGPT and similar tools evaluate brands—using sentiment scores, competitive comparisons, and a recommendation map. Here’s what’s behind it and how online store owners can use these insights.

On July 31, 2026, the “Right to Repair” will take effect. If a customer chooses repair over replacement in the event of a defect, the warranty period will be extended by twelve months—and you are required to inform them of this in advance. Here’s what online retailers need to know now.

The XONIC 4.8 update makes shopping in your store easier and your team more efficient: completely redesigned product filters on all category pages, a no-coding form builder, certified Hermes shipping directly from the order, and a completely new ticket view. As of the current version 4.8.5, over 70 new features and more than 140 improvements have been added since version 4.7.

Starting November 20, 2026, new EU rules will apply to installment payments and “pay later” options. Here’s what that means for your store’s checkout process—and how XONIC can help you navigate it.

JTL has fundamentally restructured its pricing as of April 1, 2026—with serious consequences for many merchants. We’ll break down the situation and explain what matters most when switching e-commerce platforms.

Starting June 15, 2026, Google will take action worldwide against so-called "back-button hijacking." Online store owners should take action now to avoid a drop in rankings.

The biggest front-end update since version 4.0: A completely new shopping cart with express checkout, a full-screen image gallery with touch gestures, AI integration with four providers, and a consistently modern design —with over 340 improvements.

Professional OXID eShop 6 Migration: Customers with passwords, products with variants, order history, coupons, reviews, and more. Transfer 15 data areas fully automatically to your new XONIC shop.

The GLS ShipIT integration has been completely modernized: OAuth2 authentication, GDPR-compliant shipping, and direct label generation in the XONIC backend.

The bankruptcy of the JTL agency Modern Solution shows that when hosting and inventory management come from the same service provider, a service outage can threaten a company’s very existence. With its integrated JTL inventory management connection and its own hosting, XONIC offers a secure alternative.

New REST API with OAuth2 authentication, enhanced bot protection for 8 cloud providers, xoContentEditor for CMS/News/FAQ, and many improvements.

XONIC 4.6.14 clearly focuses on processes that consume time every day in professional online stores: accounting data transfers, marketplace synchronization, product data imports, and reliable reports. The update includes all new features since version 4.6.13 (released on December 11, 2025) and addresses typical bottlenecks in growing e-commerce setups—from DATEV Online integration to a completely revamped Amazon Seller integration to performance optimizations in the backend.

 E-Commerce 2026: The 4 Biggest Legal Pitfalls! A "cancel order" button, stricter liability for digital products (PLD), new packaging requirements (PPWR), and stricter rules on green claims are on the horizon. Take action now to avoid cease-and-desist letters!

The most comprehensive XONIC update for December 2025: AI-powered features for intelligent review responses and automatic FAQ generation, PWA push notifications for shopping cart events, xoContentEditor Beta for code-free landing pages (Q1 2026), completely new payment modules (Unzer v2, Datatrans v2, Stripe Express Checkout), Lexware Office integration for automatic order export, 5 new languages (Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, Japanese), PHP 8.4/8.5 compatibility, and over 490 optimizations for maximum performance, security, and user-friendliness.

There are now hundreds of sales platforms—ranging from specialized niche marketplaces to all-around platforms for clothing, books, or furniture. This article introduces 19 relevant platforms, compares fees, reach, and use cases, and explains when it makes sense to have your own online store.

Due to the U.S. executive order repealing the de minimis duty exemption (elimination of the $800 exemption threshold), the shipment of goods by mail to the U.S. and Puerto Rico via DHL Paket International and Warenpost International is temporarily suspended. Last acceptance date: August 25, 2025. DHL Express remains available; DHL is clarifying the details with the authorities and will provide immediate notice regarding the resumption of service.

New Mandatory Cancellation Button: Major Challenges for Online Retailers The introduction of the mandatory cancellation button presents small and medium-sized online stores with complex technical and legal hurdles. Implementing this as a true “one-click cancellation” is practically impossible, especially for guest orders. Without a customer account, it’s impossible to guarantee that the purchaser can be identified in a way that complies with data protection regulations while still being user-friendly. There is also a risk of legal conflicts with the GDPR and financial losses due to lower conversion rates. A well-thought-out, practical solution is needed here to combine legal certainty with user-friendliness.

Discontinuation of the ODR Platform as of July 20, 2025 The European Commission will permanently discontinue the ODR platform for online dispute resolution for consumers as of July 20, 2025. As of that date, online retailers will no longer be required to provide a link to the platform—the legal obligation will thus cease to apply. Please note, however, that separate regulations may still apply to cease-and-desist declarations that have already been submitted. Carefully review your individual obligations and seek legal advice if you have any uncertainties.

With numerous new EU directives, e-commerce is set to undergo major changes in 2024 and 2025. Stricter requirements regarding product safety (GPSR), accessibility (BFSG/EAA), platform regulation (DSA/DMA), the use of AI (AI Act), e-invoicing, and sustainable supply chains (EU Supply Chain Act) will affect nearly all online retailers and platform operators. Timely adjustments to processes, product data, and store structure ensure legal compliance and competitiveness in digital commerce. XONIC Premium recommends addressing the most important EU requirements early on and planning internal measures.

The new XONIC Premium Multichannel Interface for shöpping.at provides operators of XONIC online stores with a fully automated, reliable connection to the Austrian marketplace. The automated exchange of product and order data minimizes sources of error and makes workflows significantly more efficient. The integration helps companies expand their reach and ensure sustainable growth in the Austrian e-commerce market.

TheAccessibility Enhancement Act (BFSG), which will take effect on June 28, 2025, transposes theEuropean Accessibility Act (EAA) into German law. It requires operators of online stores and other e-commerce platforms to make their digital offerings accessible.

EU AI Act 2026: New Regulations on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence Starting in 2026, the EU will introduce far-reaching regulations governing the use of artificial intelligence. In this context, clear guidelines regarding copyright, transparency requirements, and the classification of high-risk AI are being defined. Find out when your AI applications will be considered high-risk and what transparency requirements you must meet. Stay informed about the latest developments that are significantly shaping EU legislation.

With the new XONIC Update 4.5.21, we are expanding support for electronic invoices to include the ZUGFeRD format in addition to the existing Xrechnung format. Benefit from standardized, legally compliant, and efficient invoicing processes. Learn more about the benefits of this enhancement and optimize your business processes.

We are delighted to present our latest update, 4.5.x, which makes it easier for you to comply with the EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR). You’ll also get an exclusive look ahead to 2025, including planned price adjustments, innovative marketing tools, and Cloudflare security solutions for your online store. Discover how our latest features can optimize your business processes and set you up for success in the coming year.

The December 13, 2024, deadline for the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) is approaching, and many online retailers are facing the challenge of complying with the new EU regulations. eBay supports you with special features that allow you to integrate GPSR-related information directly into your listings, as well as a trained support team that responds to your feedback on an ongoing basis. Non-compliant listings in the EU and Northern Ireland will be hidden until they are brought into compliance, thereby strengthening consumer protection and ensuring your compliance. In addition, eBay provides clear guidelines for selling used goods and collectibles to ensure your legal certainty. Take advantage of eBay’s comprehensive resources to optimize your product safety and meet the requirements of the GPSR.

Learn more about the benefits of the new monitoring feature and how you can take advantage of it by upgrading your support level.

Cybercrime in Germany is experiencing an alarming rise between 2022 and 2023. This report analyzes current trends, the most common types of threats, and the growing economic damage, and presents strategies for effectively combating digital attacks on businesses and society.

The Bonn-based logistics company has announced that it will discontinue two of its shipping options effective January 1, 2025. Both the cash-on-delivery letter and the “Registered Mail – Personal Delivery (Domestic)” service will no longer be offered. These measures were taken due to a lack of customer demand. Customers who still have “Registered Mail, Personal Delivery” labels may continue to use them; however, these shipments will be delivered as standard registered mail in the future. Cash-on-delivery letters sent after the cutoff date will be returned to the sender. Alternatively, the cash-on-delivery service for packages can be used for a fee of 8.99 euros.

In this newsletter, we’d like to remind you once again that Update 4.5.x is now available, and to give you a brief preview of what’s to come in 2025. 

We are pleased to announce that we have revamped the entire Amazon integration as part of our XONIC Premium Multichannel service. Starting now, you can take advantage of the following features: - Automatic product upload - Automatic order download and shipping status updates These improvements ensure more efficient management of your Amazon products and orders.

We are pleased to announce that we have revamped the Kaufland integration and added new features. An optimized product upload feature is now available, which makes listing items much easier.

With this newsletter, we'd like to give you a brief update on the upcoming major V4.5 update.

Paper invoices—or those created using Word and Excel—will soon be a thing of the past: With the planned Growth Opportunities Act, electronic invoicing will dominate business life in the future. This transition aims to promote growth and innovation, as well as simplify tax processes for businesses. Electronic invoices offer numerous advantages, including faster and error-free data processing. Dive into the world of e-invoices and discover how they can revolutionize everyday office life.

The so-called “button solution” introduced in 2012 was intended to reduce the risk of hidden costs in online retail and increase transparency. All too often, it was unclear whether another checkout page would follow or whether the order had already been finalized. Even today, more than a decade later, many companies continue to use questionable ordering processes to boost their conversion rates. The European Court of Justice recently had to intervene and imposed fines. Want to make sure this doesn’t happen to you? Then read our in-depth article to learn how to design your order button correctly and avoid costly consequences.

Court Bans Prepayment in Online Stores: Impact on Your Store System

The Nuremberg Higher Regional Court (OLG) has ruled that Netto Marken-Discount’s online store may not require prepayment before a contract is concluded. This ruling has far-reaching consequences for all online retailers, as it fundamentally changes the way prepayments are handled.

Important Changes for Online Retailers: A new product safety regulation will take effect on December 13, 2024, bringing significant changes for all stakeholders in the distribution and supply chain. Manufacturers, importers, and online retailers will all be affected by stricter information requirements and more stringent guidelines for product recalls. It is strongly recommended that you familiarize yourself with the new requirements well in advance and establish appropriate compliance processes.

Cannabis in E-Commerce

With the upcoming legalization of cannabis in Germany, the industry is abuzz: What does the new law mean for online retail when it comes to hemp products? Contrary to some hopes, the sale of cannabis plants and seeds in online stores is not permitted. However, alternatives are emerging on the horizon of the digital market. Discover what options are available and what regulations apply to online sales of “green gold.”

A significant data breach is affecting Facebook Marketplace users. A large database containing sensitive information on approximately 77,267 people was stolen by criminals and made public. This incident once again raises questions about data security at Facebook and underscores the importance of regularly reviewing your own digital security.

Those affected must now take action to prevent further damage. Find out what data was published and how you can protect yourself.

Important news for all eBay business sellers! Changes are on the horizon that could affect your online business. As part of its February update, eBay recently announced a series of changes aimed at improving and simplifying the selling experience on the platform.

Whether you can expect changes to the listing process or improvements to shipping operations, it’s crucial to stay up to date. These changes are designed to ensure that eBay remains an efficient marketplace for professional sellers and buyers. Get ready for the details this February—it could transform your business!

We always strive to make shopping in our online store as easy and convenient as possible. That’s why we’re pleased to introduce a new feature: the option to request a free DHL return label directly in the store (version 4.4.9 and later).

Users of our system can now use Google Authenticator as an additional security measure for their accounts (starting with version 4.4.9)

We would like to briefly inform you about the V4.4 update, which is now available.

We hope you've been doing well so far this hot summer. In this newsletter, we'd like to give you a brief update on the upcoming major V4.4 update and other topics.

Transatlantic Data Protection Agreement Between the EU and the U.S. Simplifies International Data Transfers

Billbeeisareliablesolutionforautomatingparticularlycomplexorder processes.In 2017,Billbeeintroducedanewinterface thatsimplifies integration withexternalsystemssuch as the XONIC shop system andallowsyoutomanagelogistics processes,invoices, andpayments. Withthis integration, youcan nowtake advantage ofBillbee’sfeaturesevenmore easily andsignificantlyreduce theadministrative burdenassociated witheachorder.

Starting July 1, 2023, Google will discontinue support for Google Analytics 3 (Universal Analytics).

Amicron Faktura is a proven solution for order processing that has been in use across more than 300 industries since 1990. With the new XONIC interface, you can now also access the latest version, Amicron Faktura 14.

Online entrepreneurs, self-employed individuals, and anyone working in the digital world know how important it is to stay up to date in order to remain successful. A key aspect of this is keeping track of the latest developments in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). We explore the future of AI and the decline of traditional search engines.

In online retail in particular, it is not unusual for business to be conducted across Europe. Sales throughout the EU, in particular, are facilitated by many uniform regulations for both businesses and consumers.

What exactly is the difference between postage and shipping costs? XONIC Solutions explains what you need to know.

DPD, one of Europe's leading package delivery services, is now also integrated with the XONIC e-commerce platform via a new cloud API. This new API enables companies using XONIC V4 to easily integrate DPD’s delivery services into their online stores and offer their customers more options for receiving their orders.

The new Update 4.2 for XONIC Version 4 is now available.

PayPal Checkout is now available as a payment module for XONIC V4 stores.

Available since June 2022 and undergoing continuous development: the latest update on XONIC V4.

Stripe is now available as a payment module for XONIC Shops.

At the end of August 2021, the XONIC servers were moved to a new data center in Frankfurt.

Find out everything you need to know about the EU VAT reform for your XONIC online store here.

The payment provider "idealo Direktkauf Payment" is now available. 

Improved conversion tracking thanks to new API interfaces.

Get your shipping ready for 2021. 

The new JTL interface for existing JTL installations and the upcoming JTL Wawi 1.6 is now available.

Find out everything you need to know about the VAT reduction in your XONIC online store here.

With our new integration with Uptain, we offer you an interface that allows you to use their intelligent software for conversion optimization and recovering abandoned carts.

In its cookie ruling published on Tuesday, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) set the course for the future: “The use of cookies requires the active consent of the Internet user.”

The XONIC Shop System prioritizes security and staying up to date. As a result, version 3.2 of the XONIC Shop System is fully compatible with PHP 7.4 and earlier (starting with PHP 5.6). 

With the upcoming Version 3.2 update to the XONIC Shop System, our shopping cart system will offer full support for Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). Progressive Web Apps are shaking up the IT and e-commerce markets.