Context

In the current version of Shopware 6, when creating a new promotion, the field “Promotion code type” is automatically set to “No promotion code required”.
This UX choice was made intentionally to simplify creation of general cart-level discounts, which are the most common use case.

However, this default selection can lead to unintended activation of promotions when a user forgets to change the option to “Fixed” or “Individual promotion code.”
In such cases, discounts may be applied to all customers instead of a limited target group, which can cause serious financial and operational issues.

Problem

• Users may overlook that a promotion is configured without a code, because “No code required” is preselected

• This can unintentionally trigger discounts for all customers

• Currently, there is no system-level control or "safeguard" to prevent this

Proposed Solutions

We suggest adding configurability or safety mechanisms for the “Promotion code type” field to reduce user errors and increase administrative control.

There are three possible options that could be implemented independently or in combination:

1. Require explicit selection (no default preselection)
   Remove the preselected value “No promotion code required.”

2. System-wide default configuration
   Add a configuration setting in system or admin preferences allowing administrators to define the default for new promotions

3. Optional warning before activation
   Display a confirmation or warning when activating a promotion that has no promotion code set.
   Example message:
   “This promotion will be applied to all customers because no promotion code is required. Are you sure you want to activate it?”

Expected Benefits

• Prevents accidental large-scale discount activations

• Improves administrative control and safety

• Reduces support incidents and potential financial losses

• Aligns the promotion workflow with enterprise-level requirements