Shopware 6: What Does the New Fair Usage Policy Mean for Merchants?

With the introduction of the Fair Usage Policy (FUP) on March 24, 2025, Shopware brings significant changes for users of the Community Edition. This policy aims to ensure fairness and sustainability in Shopware's open-source ecosystem by having successful merchants contribute to the platform's ongoing development.

What is the Fair Usage Policy?

The FUP affects companies that use Shopware's free Community Edition while also having access to the Shopware Account and the Shopware Store. The core of the policy is the introduction of a revenue threshold (GMV – Gross Merchandise Volume):

• Companies with an annual GMV under €1 million can continue to use the Community Edition without restrictions, including access to the Shopware Account and the Shopware Store.

• Companies with an annual GMV over €1 million must switch to a paid Shopware plan (Rise, Evolve, or Beyond) to retain full access to the Shopware Account and the Shopware Store.

The Community Edition remains open source and can still be used without restrictions. However, there will now be a revenue threshold for using certain Shopware services.

GMV reporting: Mandatory for everyone

To verify compliance with the FUP, submitting the annual GMV to Shopware is required. For this purpose, Shopware provides the „Shopware GMV Reporting“ extension, which enables automated and privacy-compliant submission of aggregated revenue data.

Community Edition Migration Offer

For certain Community Edition users, Shopware offers a special migration deal starting May 2025:

• Cost: €300 per month

• Contract term: 3 years

• Increased GMV threshold: €2 million per year

Requirements for taking advantage of this offer include, among other things, activating the GMV Reporting extension before April 30, 2025, and a GMV under €1 million at the cutoff date.

Conclusion: Action required for merchants

The introduction of the Fair Usage Policy requires Shopware merchants to review their current usage and revenue:

• Under €1 million GMV: No changes, only GMV submission is required.

• Over €1 million GMV: Decision between switching to a paid plan or using the Community Edition without access to the Shopware Account and the Shopware Store.

For individual consulting and support in implementing the necessary steps, we at eazyCode Software GmbH are happy to help.