Posted on: January 10, 2024
Written by: Mick Sherry
Key Changes: Starting March 1, 2024, websites hosted on Google Business Profiles will be deactivated and no longer supported.
Small business owners have long benefited from Google Business Profile’s free web pages….but that is all about to change early in 2024.
This means that any existing website using this service will be taken down, and visitors will be redirected back to the business’s Google Business Profile instead.
See the official announcement from Google here.
Why This Matters
This change marks a significant shift in Google’s services, underlining the importance of owning a dedicated business website that aligns with your brand’s identity and services.
Your free Google site will disappear, so you’ll need to commission the design and development of a business website is owned by you.
The Transition Phase
From March 1, 2024, any traffic to your Google-created website will be automatically directed to your Google Business Profile.
This arrangement will last until June 10, 2024. After that, visiting a URL where a free GBP site used to be located will result in a 404 ‘Page Not Found’ error.
To ensure the continuity of your web marketing and avoid customer confusion, you should be looking to build a website of your own.
Once you’ve got a new website for your business, you can add the URL to your Google Business Profile.
The Importance of a Quality Website
Websites form the centrepiece of all of your marketing efforts.
Campaigns like SEO, Google Ads, social media posts, paid social advertising, email marketing, TV/Radio advertising etc will all link your audience back to your website.
Even your print assets such as signs, A-frames, business cards, letterheads and branded work vehicles usually mention your website URL so you can see how important it is to have a good website for your business.
Your website is a key marketing asset for your business.
It’s essential to entrust the design and development of your business site to an experienced digital marketing expert who will take the time to fully understand your business and your customers.
Working with a professional will save you time, frustration and money…and you’ll get a website that can generate enquiries and help your business grow.
Your Next Steps – It’s Time to Build a New Website
A well-designed, compliant, and easy-to-maintain website can make a significant difference in how your brand is perceived online.
Embrace this change as an opportunity to enhance your online presence and get a professional website – Contact Michael for a web design consultation on 0431 739 060 or email [email protected]
Choosing the Right Provider for Your Website
Selecting a competent agency to handle your website needs is crucial.
Look for a digital marketing provider offering comprehensive services including website design, hosting, maintenance, and website support.
Local expertise is a bonus, especially if they have a strong understanding of Google Search, SEO, and Digital Marketing.
Closing Thoughts
The upcoming deactivation of Google Business Profile websites is a pivotal moment for small businesses.
It’s a call to action to invest in a quality website that serves as a primary touchpoint for your brand and customers.
Need Help? Contact Michael Sherry
Contact a professional web designer & digital marketing consultant to create a website for your business that reflects your unique identity, ranks in Google search and generates new leads/enquiries for your small business.
Contact Michael on 0431 739 060 or hit the contact page.