Browse the top Shopify development companies that create high-performing online stores with custom themes, seamless integrations, and optimized user experiences. Our in-house experts have listed the best Shopify development agencies that can help you boost conversions and accelerate eCommerce growth.

The Best Shopify Development Agencies

1,159 Companies-Rankings updated: August 22, 2026

DesignRush assesses Shopify development agencies using expertise standards and verified client experiences to help you make better decisions. Certain placements may be paid.

  • CBX Solutions is a freelance digital marketing agency based in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

    We provide a wide range of services to support you throughout your journey. Let us be your trusted partner in your journey towards success. With our extensive range of services, you can rest assured that we have you covered at every turn. We work tirelessly to support you and help you achieve your goals...

    Location
    Green Bay, Wisconsin
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Crafting Digital Success Through Innovative Marketing

    Our expert team is committed to delivering exceptional and memorable experiences that elevate your brand. Whether it's web, app, or graphic design, or user interfaces and print materials, Design Wox craft visuals that make a powerful impression. We recognize that every project is unique and provide bespoke...

    Location
    Houston, Texas
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $60/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Clear Strategy, Measurable Results.

    DeltaV Digital combines SEO, PPC, and web development into unified marketing strategies that deliver measurable results and maximum ROI. Every channel informs the others so nothing operates in a silo. Senior-led, US-based team with no handoffs and no black-box reporting. Real depth, real results...

    Location
    Fort Collins, Colorado
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $250/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Trust the experts who understand your vision and transform it into reality.

    Dubai-based digital agency founded in 2021. Official Odoo ERP/CRM Ready Partner. We deliver web & app development, ecommerce, enterprise CMS (Sitecore, Umbraco, Optimizely, Kentico), cloud, and AI automation serving SMBs and mid-market clients across the USA, UAE, and UK at competitive rates...

    Location
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • Global AI, Blockchain & Custom Software Experts

    Bitsclan offers AI/ML, chatbots, AI agents automation, blockchain and custom software development services. Partner with top-rated developers and grow faster...

    Location
    New York City, New York
    Number of Employees
    100 - 249
    Average Hourly Rate
    $40/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • Your Story Our Passion

    Chapters Digital Solutions is a growth-focused digital agency helping brands turn data, creativity, and strategy into measurable business results across SEO, performance marketing, and content...

    Location
    Cairo, Egypt
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • The Shopify Agency That Helps Brands Shine

    Radiant partners with ecommerce brands to enable them to be their best version, thanks to our expertise in Shopify web design, development and website optimisation. We help brands make an impression online, increase their audience and convert more sales...

    Location
    Birmingham, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Experts in Digital Marketing

    SERP Matrix is a full-service digital marketing agency that helps businesses of all sizes improve their online visibility and generate more leads and sales. They offer a wide range of services, including search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, social media marketing, web design, and...

    Location
    Spring, Texas
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Customized and creative solutions to help your business stand out in the digital market

    Bizital boasts a specialized team well-versed in the latest trends and technologies within the realm of digital marketing. Our collaborative approach involves working closely with clients to deliver creative and tailored solutions aligned with the unique preferences and requirements of each project...

    Location
    Barcelona, Spain
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    7 Projects Listed
  • We turn your idea into a fully functional, clean and well optimized website in no time.

    Websites and custom software solutions at world-class level. We turn your idea into a fully functional, clean and well optimized website in no time. More than 20 satisfied customers choose ExN as their primary software development agency...

    Location
    Novi Sad, Serbia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $40/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    4 Projects Listed
  • Develop & launch stores with growth at their core and fire in their belly.

    We are creative digital agency pushing the boundaries of design. We create bespoke, imaginative and immersive websites to make your brand really stand our from your competitors. We use a unique strategy to turn heads and make you memorable. We are a dedicated team of digital pros at your service...

    Location
    London, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • Your Gateway to Digital Excellence.

    At Sage Web Solution, we transform your digital aspirations into reality. We are your one-stop solution for creating captivating, responsive, and user-friendly websites that leave a lasting impression...

    Location
    Taguig, Philippines
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • From Concept to Conversion.

    With twenty years of industry expertise, Spark Agency remains a pioneering force in the digital realm, continuously adapting to the dynamic technological landscape. Grounded in a customer-centric philosophy, our success is intricately tied to the achievements of our clients, driving us to deliver unparalleled...

    Location
    Vancouver, Canada
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • We Exist Because The World Needs Us

    Brandemic blends creativity with user experience, crafting visually stunning yet functional designs. Our philosophy focuses on creating designs that captivate and engage, pushing boundaries in UI/UX. We pay attention to detail, use innovative colors and typography, and understand user psychology...

    Location
    Bengaluru, India
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    13 Projects Listed
  • Innovate | Connect | Inspire.

    SRP Technologies is a premier technology solutions provider, renowned for its expertise in delivering cutting-edge innovations in Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, and full-stack development...

    Location
    Karachi, Pakistan
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $20/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    9 Projects Listed
  • Hong Kong Based Full Service Digital Agency

    Lolli Media is a creative digital agency focusing offering branding, web design and development. Lolli's web design solutions include eCommerce, eshop, online shop, UI & UX design, content management system, and campaign sites. websites designed by Lolli are developed using Wordpress, Opencart, WooCommerce...

    Location
    Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    4 Projects Listed
  • Software Development & ROI-Driven Marketing

    Azentra Technologies delivers custom software development and ROI-driven marketing to accelerate your business growth...

    Location
    Harrow, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $500/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    4 Projects Listed
  • E-commerce Solutions Based On Our Experience In Software Development

    eCommerce Experts | Custom&Web Development...

    Location
    Rzeszów, Poland
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $75/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    6 Projects Listed
  • Digital & Development Solutions

    At Ascender, we focus on building partnership-driven relationships while fast tracking your smart ideas to make them a reality. We are website design, graphic design, web development and digital marketing experts who are excited to share our talents with you...

    Location
    Red Bank, New Jersey
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $125/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Technology & Software Development Services.

    Ash IT Service stands as a premier software development company, focusing on technology-driven business solutions. We strive to empower businesses with increased revenue, productivity, and customer loyalty through our wide array of software and web development services...

    Location
    Delhi, India
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • Your Partner for a Professional Website.

    Cayweb is a dynamic digital marketing agency based in Lier, specializing in supporting SMEs and freelancers in their online growth. From custom WordPress websites to boosting online visibility and running strategic campaigns, we provide a comprehensive service acting as your single, reliable partner for...

    Location
    Lier, Belgium
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $80/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Your Mobility Solutions Partner

    We're a fast-growing web development company with over a decade of experience in building world class B2B and B2C web designs that deliver enterprise agility, elevate the customer experience ad drive innovation. We're providing a full complement of professional services including strategy, web design, and...

    Location
    Noida, India
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $15/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    4 Projects Listed
  • We Help Craft Profitable

    Crafting Unique Brands & Building Profitable Websites, Aim squad is a boutique branding, web design and development agency for motivated businesses. To help 1 million business owners create beautiful, eye catching websites that convert web visitors into customers. Learn how to convert website visitors into...

    Location
    Los Angeles, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $75/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • We Care. We Deliver. We Do It Right!

    Estro Digital Communications is an award-winning agency reshaping business growth in the digital age. Led by Chris and Steve Estrellado, we specialize in 360° marketing solutions, combining AI-powered CRM tools and advanced automation techniques. With a proven track record across industries, we craft...

    Location
    Westwood, New Jersey
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $200/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
  • thoughtbot is your expert partner for product design and development.

    20+ years over 1,000 clients! thoughtbot is a design and development company that helps clients lead the way through better products, faster teams, and stronger growth...

    Location
    New York City, New York
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $175/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    8 Projects Listed
  • Trusted E-commerce Development Partner

    11+ years crafting scalable eCommerce solutions for B2B and retail. Magento development agency experts alongside Shopify development partners and Magento specialists. We deliver 90+ PageSpeed sites, CRO optimization (20-50% lifts), and AI-powered personalization. From startups to enterprises headless...

    Location
    Krakow, Poland
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $45/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • AI Digital Transformation Company

    Orangemantra is a recognized leader in the IT landscape, possessing main expertise in digital transformation solutions. Our specialization spans app development, staff augmentation, eCommerce, DevOps, Salesforce, Managed services, and emerging technologies...

    Location
    Gurgaon, India
    Number of Employees
    250 - 499
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    5 Projects Listed
  • Fishing for the Best in Digital Marketing & Web Development.

    50FISH is an eCommerce agency helping brands discover their potential. We mix strategy, design, and marketing to help our partners connect, engage, and prosper...

    Location
    Yarmouth, Maine
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
  • Engage, Convert, Growth

    Whether you are a small medium business(Sme), startup or a large enterprise, we are dedicated to helping increase your online visibility, and drive sustainable business growth in the Indonesian market...

    Location
    South Jakarta, Indonesia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • Web, graphic and branding for a thriving online presence.

    RD Web Design is a Graphic design, logo and brand creation, website design and development, and content that is optimized for search engines. With headquarters in Melbourne, Australia, the company provides services to customers located all over the world...

    Location
    Pascoe Vale South, Australia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $35/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • We help you build your online presence.

    At OlivSEO, we aspire to be a valuable partner in your company venture. We are trustworthy and hardworking consultants. We assist your company in establishing and expanding its web presence. We do research, analyze data, and provide suggestions for all websites...

    Location
    Phoenix, Arizona
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Your Online Partner.

    LUMINA specializes in elevating your business to a prosperous online marketplace through our adept Ecommerce solutions. Allow us to facilitate your entry into the vast opportunities of the online retail landscape, propelling your business to unprecedented success. Our team excels in crafting highly converting...

    Location
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $45/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Always in motion.

    Welcome to my website. I'm John Vivas, a professional WordPress specialist developer and integrator located in Chile. I generally work with art directors, web studios, graphic designers and digital marketing agencies globally...

    Location
    Santiago, Chile
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • Best Website Design and Digital Marketing

    At Blue Beam Marketing, we specialize in top-notch website design and digital marketing services tailored to your specific needs. With a dedicated focus on bringing your business vision to fruition, we're committed to delivering exceptional results that elevate your online presence and drive success...

    Location
    Buckeye, Arizona
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • We Create Connections Through Digital & Creative Solutions.

    We celebrate originality through digital, design, and branding experiences. We are an independent, digital-first company: we are 25 people, each with their own interests and passions, specializing in communication projects that combine identity and digital...

    Location
    Resana, Italy
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $65/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $25,000 - $50,000
  • We connect brands with consumers through digital experiences.

    Were a customer experience design agency that connects brands to consumers through digital interfaces, enabling best-in-class customer experiences that deliver business growth. Launching digital experiences that transform companies and industries. In order to stay competitive in an ever-evolving landscape...

    Location
    Vienna, Austria
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
  • Bizualized: Your Business Visualized.

    At Bizualized, we're more than just a digital marketing agency. We're a partner in your success, working tirelessly to help you achieve your goals and reach your target audience in the most effective way possible. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you grow your business through...

    Location
    Miami, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • We Build Your Brand.

    GOAT 31 is a full-service marketing and advertising agency with over 5 years of experience, specializing in marketing strategy, advertising, web development, graphic design, and video production. We help brands grow with bold creative and data-driven solutions...

    Location
    London, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • Creative Design & Development

    Riga, Latvia based creative design studio...

    Location
    Riga, Latvia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Take off Through Results & Grow Your Business.

    Tykio is a result-driven Google Certified Digital Partner dedicated to developing and implementing strategies that effectively convert your target audience, thereby maximizing profits. Our commitment to excellence ensures your business achieves optimal outcomes in the digital landscape...

    Location
    San Jose, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • Give space to your ideas.

    Specializing in Visual Design, Multimedia, UX/UI, and Web Development, we focus on providing comprehensive and creative solutions. Additionally, we take care of optimizing SEO positioning, platform optimization, and performing tracking and data analysis...

    Location
    La Plata, Argentina
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $10/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Creative design solutions that get results!

    Yes! was born out of the desire to produce world-class creative for small to medium-sized businesses. Were a small studio with big ambitions. For Real...

    Location
    Vincentia, Australia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $120/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • We Help Your Business Take Off!

    Diverse Website Design is your #1 choice when it comes to building your new website, as trusted by businesses all over Australia. We pride ourselves on offering top-quality websites at the lowest price, keeping everyone-happy...

    Location
    Melbourne, Australia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • We create digital brands, products and experiences that actually work.

    Ember Design is a Hamburg-based UX/UI design agency specializing in digital branding, product management, and technology solutions. We excel at creating immersive and effective user experiences, offering services ranging from brand development to web development. Our commitment to innovation and creativity...

    Location
    Hamburg, Germany
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $140/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $25,000 - $50,000
  • Websites, the way they should be.

    Were your award-winning website partner. Our small but mighty team are experts at crafting high-quality & creative digital experiences...

    Location
    Auckland, New Zealand
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $110/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
  • Partnering Brands & Developing Digital Footprints

    At eTrail Web Space, we deliver cutting-edge web solutions tailored to your unique business needs. Our comprehensive services encompass website creation, content development, and strategic marketing designed to elevate your online presence. Leveraging the latest in web technology, we ensure your site is...

    Location
    Singapore, Singapore
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Your Go-To Creative Agency.

    We are a Webflow-focused agency that specializes in creating intuitive, high-converting websites. Our team combines beautiful UI/UX design, smooth development, and smart SEO strategies to create websites that don't just look amazing but actually help your business grow...

    Location
    Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $70/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Shopify Experts: Crafting In-Vogue brands for In-Forbes Founders.

    A boutique brand design, web development and email marketing agency supporting entrepreneurs who are ready to enter a new level of success with a visual identity to match. Our intimate team of designers x web developers collaborate closely to create impactful online experiences that are made to be remembered...

    Location
    Toronto, Canada
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $80/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Professional software development for Android, iOS and web from Germany.

    We develop customized apps and digital experiences for Android, iOS, Windows and the web - intuitive, innovative and entertaining. With state-of-the-art artificial intelligence, we offer smart automation, professional AI consulting and powerful solutions that inspire. Your project, our passion!...

    Location
    Lörrach, Germany
    Number of Employees
    Under 49

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Shopify Development Companies

What services do Shopify development agencies offer?

They provide end-to-end solutions that cover everything from initial strategy to long-term growth. Businesses should look for Shopify experts who combine Shopify development, design, integration, and digital marketing to maximize ROI.

Core Shopify development services include:

  • Shopify Store development and web development: Creating Shopify and Shopify Plus sites from scratch, tailored to brand and business models. Shopify website development includes user experience (UX), navigation and structure, and scalable eCommerce architecture for growth.
  • Shopify theme development and customization: Designing advanced Shopify themes using Liquid, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and managing performance optimization and mobile responsiveness.
  • Shopify app development and software development: Creating custom Shopify apps for unique business needs, private and public apps, and developing backend software for automation and integrations.
  • Shopify integration services: Managing third-party integrations (ERP, CRM, PIM, payment gateways), API-based Shopify integration with logistics, accounting, and marketing tools, and automating business processes.
  • Shopify migration: Transferring existing stores from platforms like WooCommerce, Magento, or custom systems, handling data transfer (products, customers, orders), and managing SEO-safe URL mapping and redirects.
  • Performance and optimization (CRO): Enhancing site speed, mobile optimization, and user experience (UX) to increase conversion rates.
  • Ongoing support and maintenance: Providing regular updates, security monitoring, and technical support

When does a business need Shopify Plus and a Shopify Plus Partner?

A business typically needs Shopify Plus and the support of a Shopify Plus partner when its eCommerce operations become too complex, high-volume, or globally distributed for standard Shopify plans. At this stage, businesses require a more advanced Shopify solution to support automation, multi-store management, and international commerce.

At that point, success depends on:

  • Advanced Shopify development
  • Strong integrations
  • Optimized Shopify design and UX
  • Continuous growth through digital marketing and Shopify SEO

Top Shopify development companies help turn Shopify Plus from a platform upgrade into a long-term competitive advantage. Shopify Plus is designed for high-growth brands that usually generate $1M+ in annual revenue or experience rapid monthly growth.

Shopify reported that its merchants processed over $235 billion in gross merchandise volume (GMV) in 2023, showing how quickly businesses on the platform can scale.

How much does it cost to hire a Shopify development company?

The cost of hiring a Shopify development agency can vary significantly based on your store’s complexity, required features, and long-term goals.

Shopify developers charge between $30 and $200+ per hour or $5,000 to over $30,000 for full website development, according to DesignRush data.

Location is another factor that influences pricing. Agencies in the United States and across North America typically charge between $50 and $150+ per hour, while Eastern European or Asian Shopify development agencies may offer more competitive rates of $15 to $80 per hour.

Platform and ongoing costs to consider:

  • Shopify plans range from $39 per month to $2,300+ per month.
  • Payment processing fees typically range from 1% to 3% per transaction.
  • Ongoing maintenance and support can cost between $90 and $2,400+ per month.

Do I need custom Shopify theme customization or an existing theme with minor edits?

Choosing between the two depends on your business stage, budget, and the level of differentiation your Shopify store needs to compete effectively. 

Shopify theme customization vs. existing theme 

Existing theme with edits Custom theme development 
Best for startups or simple store setups Best for scaling businesses and advanced development 
Lower cost: $0-$5,000 Higher investment: $10,000-$30,000+ 
Fast launch: days to a few weeks Longer timeline: 4-12+ weeks 
Uses 200+ pre-built Shopify themes Fully custom Shopify design and theme development 
Limited flexibility; relies on apps Full control; ability to reduce need for apps and improve UX 
Good baseline performance Optimized performance where speed improvements can increase conversions by 8-10% 

Essentially, you should choose an existing Shopify theme with minor edits if your priorities are speed, cost-efficiency, and simplicity. Go for a custom Shopify theme development if your priorities are scalability, performance, and differentiation. 

What should a Shopify migration company include to protect SEO, data, and sales?

A reliable agency should protect your rankings, customer data, and revenue throughout the process.

At a minimum, a professional Shopify migration service should include:

  • SEO preservation: Full URL mapping, 301 redirects, and metadata transfer to prevent ranking loss
  • Data migration: Accurate transfer of products, customers, and order history with validation checks
  • Shopify integration: Reconnection of apps, payment systems, ERP, and CRM tools
  • Testing and QA: Full testing of checkout, payments, and user flows before launch
  • Performance optimization: Improved speed and mobile UX as part of Shopify development
  • Post-migration monitoring: Tracking traffic, rankings, and fixing issues after launch

These elements are critical because around 33% of users discover brands through search, according to recent reports. Therefore, even small SEO losses can directly impact sales.

ReceiveFreeProposals

For your project

1

Specify your budget, timeline and project requirements

2

Our experts curate a list of up to 5 most qualified candidate agencies

3

We connect you with them so you can choose the most suitable partner