In the dynamic world of eCommerce, not all products follow the same purchasing journey. Shopify store owners often need to display items that aren’t available for immediate purchase—whether they’re coming soon, require customization, need special approval, or are simply for display purposes.

Selectively removing the “Buy It Now” and “Add to Cart” buttons on specific products while keeping them visible on others creates a more sophisticated shopping experience. This guide will show you how to implement this functionality while exploring the strategic benefits of this approach for your business.

Why Remove Purchase Buttons on Specific Products?

Visual Hierarchy Benefits

• Clear product differentiation: Establishes immediate visual distinction between regular inventory and specialty items
• Focused customer attention: Directs visitors to appropriate action paths for different product types
• Instant status recognition: Customers understand special product circumstances at a glance
• Showcase priority: Highlights display-only or limited-availability items effectively

Enhanced Customer Experience

• Reduces frustration: Eliminates failed purchase attempts for unavailable items
• Minimizes confusion: Clearly indicates products requiring special ordering processes
• Manages expectations: Prevents disappointment with collectibles or limited editions
• Streamlines navigation: Creates intuitive pathways for different purchase flows

Operational Advantages

• Simplifies inventory management: Reduces inquiries about non-purchasable display items
• Optimizes order processing: Directs special orders to appropriate channels automatically
• Highlights fulfillment differences: Clearly shows in-store pickup or custom order items
• Reduces errors: Eliminates standard checkout for products requiring special handling

Marketing & Sales Benefits

• Controlled product launches: Showcases upcoming items without premature purchases
• Anticipation building: Creates buzz for limited releases by displaying without immediate purchase
• Exclusivity signaling: Properly presents items requiring membership or qualification
• Data collection: Gathers pre-release interest without managing backorders

{% if product.handle == "product-one-handle" %}
<style>
.product-form__submit.button, .shopify-payment-button__button {
    display: none !important;
}
</style>
{% endif %}
{% if product.handle == "product-two-handle" %}
<style>
.product-form__submit.button, .shopify-payment-button__button {
    display: none !important;
}
</style>
{% endif %}

Conclusion

Strategic removal of purchase buttons on select products transforms your Shopify store from a simple catalog into a sophisticated sales tool. By implementing this technique, you:

• Create clearer customer pathways for different product types
• Reduce friction and confusion in the buying process
• Maintain visual appeal while managing operational complexities
• Open new opportunities for special orders and custom requests

Remember that the goal isn’t to restrict sales, but to guide customers toward the most appropriate purchasing method for each product. When implemented thoughtfully, this approach can significantly enhance both customer experience and operational efficiency.

Need Custom Implementation?
If you want to create conditional buttons (like showing “Contact Us” instead of “Add to Cart” for specific products), or need help tailoring this solution to your unique theme, I’m available for consultation. Together we can implement the perfect purchasing workflow for your Shopify store’s specific needs.