We’ve just released version 2.12.0 of our Covent Garden theme — a performance-focused update with design improvements and new display options for merchants looking to get the most out of BigCommerce.
If you're already using Covent Garden, this update is free to download in your BigCommerce control panel.
And if you’re exploring theme options, this update makes Covent Garden an even better choice for growing stores.
Key Improvements in Covent Garden 2.12.0
Faster Page Loads and Leaner Code
We've made significant performance optimisations across the board:
- The main JavaScript bundle is now 46% smaller, and more efficient
- Unused packages have been removed
- jQuery usage has been streamlined
- A separate polyfills bundle now only loads for legacy browsers
- The navigation sticky logic has been simplified for better performance
Together, these updates help pages load faster, especially important for mobile users and SEO.
Smarter Product Cards
We’ve overhauled how product cards load and display on PLPs:
- Swatches now load using native GraphQL queries, rendered server-side via Handlebars for a faster, more reliable experience
- Improved rollover image behaviour for smoother transitions
- Cleaner card layout and improved spacing
- Better handling of multiple price types (e.g. MSRP, Was/Now, tax-inclusive/exclusive pricing)
There’s also a new alignment option in the Theme Editor so you can control how content lines up within each product card.
Add-to-Cart Mini Cart Popup
When customers click "Add to Cart" from a category or listing page, they’ll now see a mini cart confirmation popup; giving instant feedback and helping reduce accidental duplicates.
New Layout Option for PLPs
You can now choose how many columns to display on large screens. This gives you more control over how dense or spacious your PLPs feel, especially useful if you’re selling a large catalogue or products with wider photography.
Cleanups & Removals
We’ve also removed or replaced legacy code that’s no longer needed:
- Foundation reflow logic replaced with modern Flexbox
- Shop by Price removed (deprecated by BigCommerce)
- Popup-style Add to Cart confirmation removed
- Simplebar package removed from quick search
- Minor refinements to dropdown widths, label styling, and cart alignment
Plus, we’ve fixed small bugs related to zoomable product images, wallet buttons, and large-screen search boxes.
See the entire changelog here.
How to Get the Update
If you’re an existing Covent Garden theme user, head to your BigCommerce control panel and look for the update in your store’s theme settings.
Looking to switch themes or start fresh? View our Covent Garden theme features or get in touch for a tailored recommendation.