Google Ends Websites Built with Google Business Profile

Websites created using Google Business Profiles are simple websites driven by the information on your Google Business Profile.

Google has made a statement that may affect many small businesses: websites created for free using Google Business Profiles will be phased down beginning March 1st, 2024.

Instead, visitors to these websites will be sent to their respective Business Profiles. This redirection will remain until June 10th, 2024, at which point viewers will receive a “page not found” message.

It’s time for businesses that use the. business.site domain to plan for a new web presence.

Decoding Google’s Move: The Fate of Free Sites

Will Google’s free websites be taken down? The answer is yes and no. Google Business Profiles will no longer offer free websites after March 1st, 2024. However, it is important to point out that Google Sites, Google’s independent free webpage builder, will be unaffected.

Understanding the Significance of a Google Business Profile Website

Until recently, entrepreneurs could easily establish basic, single-page websites for their small enterprises using the information in their Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business).

These websites, with the “.business.site” suffix, were used by a large number of small enterprises. As the deadline approaches, Google is turning out the lights on websites built using Google Business Profiles. Small company owners must now develop a new website strategy.

Google’s Key Considerations Revealed

Google’s support post highlights many key considerations:

1. Domain Changes

Domains ending in.business.site and negocio.site will no longer be linked to the website field in your Business Profile. As a result, it is critical that you instantly update your profile with a new website URL.

2. Profile Focus

Your Google Business Profile is important. It’s the perfect place to promote your brand, provide updates, use images, and offer contact information.

3. Create a New Website

To create a new website, consider using platforms such as Wix, Squarespace, GoDaddy, Google Sites, Shopify, or WordPress. Alternatively, contact EWM for the latest in bespoke site design. Please remember to update your Business Profile with the new website link.

4. Advertising Campaign Management

To avoid unnecessary delays, update the advertising related to your Google Business Profile website by March 1st, 2024.

5. Managing Custom Domains

Those using custom domains to reroute traffic should set up redirects to new sites by June 10th, 2024.

Actionable Steps For Small Businesses

1. Assess Your Setup

Determine whether your company relies on the Google Business Profile webpage. If so, begin preparing for the shift.

2. Choose a New Platform

Investigate alternative website builders and design a dynamic site that matches your business.

3. Update your profile

Once your new website is online, update your Google Business Profile.

4. Communicate with customers.

Inform consumers of the change via email, social media, or modifications to your Business Profile.

5. Seek assistance

If necessary, contact EWM for expert assistance.

Navigating the Transition

The discontinuance of Google Business Profile webpages signals a shift in how small companies handle their internet presence. While changes are unavoidable, they also provide a chance to improve your online presence with a more complete website.

By making proactive efforts today, you can ensure a smooth transition for your organization and stay ahead of the competition. Accept change and allow your online presence to thrive in today’s changing digital world!