---
title: "Main categories and subcategories"
url: "https://support.acendy.com/en/article/adding-categories"
language: "en"
last_updated: "2026-02-10T11:58:55.890Z"
---

# Main categories and subcategories

This article explains the difference between main categories and subcategories, and when you should use them.

## What is a main category?

A main category is the top level in the category structure and is used as the primary grouping in the online store, for example:

-   Women
-   Men
-   Shoes

→ [See how to create a category here!](https://acendy.productfruits.help/en/article/how-to-create-a-new-category)

## What is a subcategory?

A subcategory helps you structure categories that contain many different products. This makes it easier for customers to find products in the online store.

A subcategory is used to divide a main category into smaller sections, for example:

-   Women → Dresses
-   Women → Jackets
-   Men → Shoes → Running shoes

Subcategories make it easier for customers to find the right product.

## How to create a subcategory

1.  Go to **Products → Products**
2.  Click **\+ Category**
3.  Enter the **subcategory name**  
    *(The category ID is generated automatically and marked with a green checkmark)*
4.  Select **Subcategory of** and choose the desired main category
5.  Click **Create new category**

## Error when creating subcategories

If you create a subcategory within a main category that already contains products, you may get an error when opening the category.

**Solution:**

-   Move the products from the main category to the subcategory

## Maximum number of category levels in the online store

### In the control panel

-   There is no limit to the number of subcategories
-   You are free to structure your product catalog as you wish

### In the online store (frontend)

The frontend supports a maximum of **3 category levels**:

-   Main category
-   Subcategory level 1
-   Subcategory level 2

### Example structure:

-   Main category (e.g. Clothing)
-   -   Subcategory **level 1** (e.g. Women)
    -   -   Subcategory **level 2** (e.g. Dresses)
    -   Subcategory **level 1** (e.g. Men)
    -   -   Subcategory **level 2** (e.g. Trousers)
        -   -   Subcategory **level 3** (e.g. Suit trousers)

> You can create more levels in the backend, but additional levels beyond this will not be displayed correctly in the online store.

## Important to know

-   A category can be either a main category or a subcategory
-   Products can belong to subcategories, but not to multiple category levels at the same time