Handling SKU Updates Between PIM and Shopify

Handling SKU Updates Between PIM and Shopify

Overview

This document explains how SKU (identifier) updates should be handled when syncing products between a Akeneo and Shopify using the StrikeTru Connector.
The process depends on how products are mapped between the two systems.


Product Mapping Logic

Product synchronization relies on a mapping relationship between the PIM and Shopify.
  1. Shopify assigns a Global ID (GID) to each product.
  2. Akeneo PIM support a UUID (Universally Unique Identifier) for each product.
When UUID is Available
  1. The connector maps products using Shopify GID ↔ PIM UUID.
  2. The SKU is treated as product data.
  3. SKU updates in the PIM will automatically update the SKU in Shopify.
No additional steps are required.

When UUID is Not Available
  1. The connector maps products using Shopify GID ↔ PIM SKU.
  2. The SKU becomes the primary identifier for mapping.
Because of this dependency, changing the SKU requires a controlled process to avoid sync issues.


SOP to Updating a SKU When UUID Is Not Available

Follow the steps below when updating a SKU.

Step 1: Copy Existing Product Details
From Shopify, copy the following:
  1. Current SKU
  2. Shopify Product GID
You will use this information to refresh the product link.

Step 2: Delete the Product in Shopify
Delete the existing product from Shopify.

This prevents mapping conflicts during the sync.

Step 3: Refresh the Product Link
  1. Open the StrikeTru Connector
  2. Go to PIM2Shopify → Link Refresh
  3. Refresh the product link using either:
    1. SKU, or
    2. Shopify GID
Step 4: Update the SKU in PIM
Update the product SKU in the PIM.

Step 5: Sync the Product
Sync the product using one of the following:
  1. Run a manual sync
  2. Wait for the automatic sync to run (if scheduled)
The updated SKU will now appear in Shopify.

Notes
Important Notes
If this process is not followed:
  1. A duplicate handle error may occur in Shopify
  2. A new product may be created if the handle is unique
  3. The product link between PIM and Shopify may break

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