E-commerce + POS Solution for Independent Record Stores

Comparison 2025: Which E-commerce + POS Solution is Best for Independent Record Stores?

Vinyl is back, and with it, more and more record stores are looking to sell both in-store and online. But when it comes to inventory management, multichannel syncing, frictionless payments, and music-specific needs (Discogs, Bandcamp, limited editions…), not all solutions are created equal.

Here’s a complete 2025 comparison of the three best E-commerce + POS platforms for independent record stores and labels: Common Ground, Shopify + POS, and Lightspeed Retail.


1. Common Ground – Built Specifically for Independent Record Stores

Common Ground is an all-in-one solution designed exclusively for record stores. It includes a modern online store, an iOS-based POS system, and native integrations with key music platforms like Discogs, Bandcamp, Instagram, and more.

Key Features:

  • Native iOS POS with Stripe reader (WisePad3/M2)

  • Direct connection to Discogs, Bandcamp, Meta

  • Centralized inventory across store, online, and marketplaces

  • Customizable storefront editor with vinyl-oriented themes

  • No transaction fees (supports Stripe, PayPal, Klarna, Apple Pay…)

  • Clear, exportable sales reports

Benefits for Record Stores:

  • Everything is tailored for music (tags, genres, formats, editions…)

  • No plugins needed to publish your catalog

  • Affordable: starting at $30/month with zero transaction fees

  • Intuitive POS app for in-store staff

Summary:
A modern, targeted, and cost-effective solution for anyone wanting to sell music with ease.


2. Shopify + POS – Maximum Flexibility, but at What Cost?

Shopify is one of the world’s most popular e-commerce platforms. Paired with Shopify POS, it offers a strong multichannel solution—but it’s a generalist platform. To properly sell records, you'll need to use plugins or custom development to meet specific needs.

Strengths:

  • Vast app ecosystem

  • Deep customization options (themes, apps, custom code)

  • POS available on iOS and Android with solid hardware support

Drawbacks for Record Stores:

  • No native integration with Discogs, Bandcamp, etc.

  • Plugins required to manage music/audio catalogs

  • Transaction fees (up to 2%) if not using Stripe

  • Steeper learning curve

Summary:
A great choice for those with technical resources or who want a highly customized storefront, but not music-focused out of the box.


3. Lightspeed Retail – A Pro-Level Tool for Chains and Large Inventories

Lightspeed is a robust retail platform designed for stores with large physical inventories. It includes a comprehensive register, advanced reporting tools, and an interface built for classic retail operations.

Advantages:

  • High-performance POS (iPad, cash drawers, scanners, etc.)

  • Detailed, powerful reports (by staff, date range, category)

  • Quality customer support (available in French)

Downsides for Record Stores:

  • No native music platform integrations (Discogs, Bandcamp…)

  • Rigid interface built for fashion, restaurants, or retail chains

  • High cost (~€160/month + hardware)

  • Longer setup and onboarding

Summary:
Ideal for shops with multiple locations, large teams, or complex inventories—but not optimized for the music industry.

Final Verdict: Which Platform to Choose in 2025?

Are you an independent record store, a label, or a vinyl shop selling both in-store and online? → Common Ground is your best bet. Specialized, affordable, and seamless.

Looking for a flexible, marketing-driven solution and have time/tech skills? → Shopify can work well.

Managing multiple stores or a chain with complex retail inventory? → Lightspeed offers the most robust infrastructure.

Want to know more about Common Ground? Explore Backoffice features and Guide: guide.common-ground.io

Monday, May 5, 2025