What To Do After Google Business Profile Website Discontinuation

As they say, the only thing constant in this world is change. And with the fast-paced digital marketing landscape, we all know that that’s nothing but the truth. From SEO, AI, and even Voice Search, the digital marketing landscape has always been changing. With these many changes, it can be hard to pinpoint which ones you need to invest in. As such, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have often turned to quick and cost-effective solutions to establish their online presence. 

One such offering, Google Business Profile Website, allows businesses to create a free website effortlessly based on their Google My Business profile. However, Google has recently announced a significant shift: it has decided to terminate this free website service. This decision will end a service that has been a great tool for many businesses looking for a low-cost web presence. 

As such, with Google announcing the end of this service, many SMEs using this platform must now explore alternative options to maintain their online visibility.

What is a Google Business Profile Website?

SMEs looking for an easy way to build a website can do so through the information in their Google My Business profile. It is Google’s simple solution that can easily enhance businesses’ online presence even without programming knowledge. This free website service lets business owners personalise their websites with images, themes, messages, and more. One advantage of this service is its automatic updates, ensuring that any changes in the business profile, such as operating hours or contact information, are reflected seamlessly on the website. 

When will websites made with Google Business Profiles be shut down?

Starting 1 March 2024, websites created through Google Business Profiles will be discontinued. After this date, attempts to access these websites will redirect users to the corresponding Google Business Profile until 10 June 2024. Beyond this point, visitors will encounter a "page not found" error.

What are your other options?

If you're a business affected by this sudden change, Google recommends various alternatives to rebuild your website. You don't need to panic.

1. Choose other free or popular platforms and do it yourself.

If you’re just starting your business and have no means to invest in professional website services yet, there are many popular platforms out there that you can utilise. Popular platforms like Wix, Squarespace, GoDaddy, Google Sites, Shopify, and WordPress are suggested alternatives. To ensure a smooth transition, businesses are advised to update their Business Profile with the new site address before the deadline and do the following:

Inform Your Customers

Communicate changes through email newsletters, social media, or other channels, turning this transition into an opportunity to promote your brand-new website.

Plan for SEO and Online Visibility

Maintain good SEO practices by optimising your new website with keywords, meta descriptions, and high-quality content. Transfer essential information from your Google Business Profile website.

Setup Proper Redirects

If you used a custom domain, set up redirects to your new website to avoid losing traffic.

2. Seek professional web design and development services.

While it’s true that the end of Google’s free websites is disappointing, it’s better to look at it as an opportunity to improve your business’s internet presence. Hiring a professional web design company can prove to be a worthwhile investment. Websites developed by experienced digital marketing companies like RJW Digital are personalised and tailored to your business. Companies offering professional web design and development services work hard to create a site that reflects your brand's values and speaks to your audience since they know how important your website is to your business. They offer attractive, user-friendly, and SEO-optimised websites.

If setting up a new website all by yourself seems daunting, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance to navigate the digital landscape easily.

Need to create a new website for your business?

The discontinuation of Google's free websites represents a big shift in the digital marketing environment. Although this change can be daunting, you need to view this development as an opportunity to improve your online presence. 

If you need professional website design and development assistance, RJW Digital is here to help! We offer services to migrate your content, create a new website on another platform, and ensure a seamless transition without losing any online visibility for your business.

We’ll help you maintain a strong internet presence that efficiently reaches your target audience.