A future-proof B2B shop for Bierbaum-Proenen

Together with our partner, the e-commerce agency Webmatch, Bierbaum-Proenen embarked on a comprehensive modernization of its online shop.
At maxcluster, we provided the high-performance, fail-safe, and scalable hosting infrastructure on which the new platform is based.

By migrating to Shopware 6 and reverting to standard features, a system was created that runs reliably in the long term, remains technically flexible, and achieves around 80% faster loading times on product detail pages.

Before the project began, the technical foundation of the existing shop had clearly reached its limits. The Shopware version in use was outdated, and many custom modifications had resulted in a confusing system that was difficult to maintain.

In particular, the checkout process regularly suffered from delays and drop-offs, which had a direct impact on revenue and customer satisfaction. At the same time, the previous provider lacked stability, responsiveness, and technical support.

Together with Webmatch, Bierbaum-Proenen decided on a complete fresh start: a modern, stable Shopware 6 solution, supported by a hosting architecture from maxcluster that was developed specifically for e-commerce.

As part of the project, it was necessary to overcome several technical and structural challenges affecting both the existing system architecture and day-to-day operations.

1. Technical stabilisation of the shop
First, the ongoing operation of the old system had to be secured. Recurring outages and unpredictable errors significantly impaired the shopping experience in day-to-day B2B business. Together with Webmatch, maxcluster supported the short-term stabilisation of the platform to prevent loss of revenue and restore system reliability.

2. Upgrade to the latest Shopware version
A key project step was the upgrade to Shopware 6. The new version provided a modern, future-proof technical foundation, greater security, and compatibility with new features and interfaces—essential for the shop’s long-term scalability.

3. Returning to the Shopware standard
Over many years, the shop had moved far away from the standard due to numerous customisations. The goal of the relaunch was to reduce unnecessary custom development in order to simplify maintenance and further development. This made it possible to create a leaner, more maintenance-friendly codebase.

4. Reduction of operating and maintenance costs
In addition to the technical improvements, cost efficiency was also to be optimised. Thanks to a clearly structured system landscape and maxcluster’s e-commerce-focused hosting, the ongoing costs for maintenance and operations could be significantly reduced.

5. Performance optimisation
A central goal was a significant improvement in performance—especially on product detail and checkout pages. Thanks to close coordination between Webmatch and maxcluster, the hosting architecture was specifically geared towards short loading times and stable processes 

The result: noticeably faster response times and a measurably higher conversion rate.

6. Visual and functional modernisation
In addition to the technical realignment, the shop received a modern, on-brand look with optimised user guidance. The new design ensures a consistent shopping experience—on desktop as well as on mobile devices.

These six tasks illustrate how closely a high-performance hosting infrastructure is linked to successful technical modernisation. As Webmatch’s preferred hosting partner, maxcluster provided the stable, highly available platform on which the new solution can grow reliably.

In close coordination with Webmatch, we supported the project from planning through go-live. The goal was to create a future-proof, high-performance e-commerce platform designed for growth and stability.

The measures implemented included:

• Rebuilding the architecture based on Shopware 6
• Integration of the B2B components to map key business processes
• Connecting the ERP system to ensure consistent data flows
• Use of modern tools such as Sentry and OpenSearch
• Migrating custom developments back to standard functionality
• Agile project management with clear responsibilities and short feedback cycles

The close collaboration of everyone involved enabled a smooth, on-time go-live—supported by an optimally prepared hosting environment from maxcluster 

Realignment of the hosting structure

At the start of the project, it quickly became clear that the existing hosting environment could no longer meet the growing requirements. Neither performance nor availability or support matched Bierbaum-Proenen’s expectations.
Together with our partner Webmatch and the customer, various hosting options were evaluated. Based on numerous positive experiences from previous projects, the choice fell on maxcluster—as a specialized hosting partner with a clear e-commerce focus.

Tailor-made infrastructure for B2B e-commerce

The newly set up hosting architecture was ready for use in a short time and tailored precisely to Bierbaum-Proenen’s technical and business requirements.
Thanks to true high availability with redundant servers and an active/passive architecture, the system achieved 99.99% availability in ongoing operation—a key advantage in professional B2B commerce.
   

Flexible scalability without downtime

Another decisive factor was the ability to adjust resources dynamically. CPU and RAM can be expanded at any time without interruption—for example during seasonal peaks, marketing campaigns, or growing user numbers. This flexibility ensures that the platform remains consistently fast and stable even under heavy load.

With maxcluster, we found a hosting solution for our customer Bierbaum-Proenen that not only impresses with excellent performance, but also with reliable support and short response times. The collaboration is a true partnership, solution-oriented, and—as we’ve come to expect from maxcluster—always a real added value for the project.

Simon Rabente, Managing Director, Webmatch GmbH

The significantly improved performance shows how closely an optimized hosting setup is linked to the user experience. Our e-commerce-focused infrastructure—with redundant hardware, NVMe technology, and a continuously evolving stack—delivers fast load times, high stability, and improved conversion rates.

If needed, CPU and RAM resources can be scaled up without downtime—ideal for peak loads or campaigns. At the same time, our monitoring ensures that bottlenecks are identified and resolved before they impact performance.

Since go-live, the new shop has been running reliably and without errors—a testament to the technical quality and the close, efficient collaboration of all partners. The successful cooperation is also reflected in positive customer and agency feedback, highlighting the partnership-based approach and the efficient delivery of the project.

The Bierbaum-Proenen project impressively demonstrates how close cooperation between the customer, agency, and hosting partner leads to sustainable success. The relaunch created a platform that is reliable in the long term, high-performing, and easy to operate.

maxcluster’s hosting played a key role: Our combination of powerful infrastructure, technical expertise, and personal support laid the foundation for stability and growth.

For us at maxcluster, this project was an example of how collaborative partnership leads to measurably better results—technically, organizationally, and on a human level.