Do Local Businesses Still Need a Website?

Do Local Businesses Still Need a Website?

It’s a question that's getting more attention these days: Do local businesses really need a website? We’re in an age where digital interactions are shifting, and your online presence is critical to survival. But is the traditional website still at the core of that presence, or can your business thrive on platforms like Google My Business (GMB) and social media?

Let’s break it down.

The Evolution of Local Business Online Presence

A few years ago, not having a website was business suicide. Now? Things are a bit more nuanced. With tools like GMB, you can create an entire business profile, take bookings, post updates, and even answer customer FAQs—all without needing a traditional website. According to CNBC, almost 45% of small businesses still don’t have a website. That’s nearly half the field relying on other platforms to reach customers.

In fact, research shows that the median click-through rate for the #1 ranking on Google dropped by 37% last year. People are interacting directly with business listings, bypassing websites altogether. It begs the question: why bother having a website?

But here’s the catch. Even if fewer people are clicking on business websites, it doesn’t mean they’ve become obsolete.

Why a Website Still Matters

1. Local SEO Needs ItYes, Google My Business helps, but having your own website strengthens your local SEO game. It’s “far more difficult to rank in the local pack listings without your own website.” Those pack listings drive real business, and your website can make all the difference in whether you get seen.

2. Brand BuildingYour website is your digital HQ. Sure, GMB provides quick info, but it doesn’t showcase your brand's personality. Your website gives you full control over your narrative, your culture, and your values. Without it, you’re just another name in the Google search results.

3. Customer TrustIn the Local Search Association’s Digital Consumer Study, 63% of consumers said they expect local businesses to have a website. It’s a trust signal. No matter how well-optimized your GMB is, customers still want to see a professional website to validate that you’re legit.

4. Content and Link BuildingSEO nerds, listen up. Content is still king, and your website is where you get to flex that muscle. It's where you can host blogs, case studies, and any form of content that makes you relevant in your space. Plus, having a website opens the door for link building—an absolute must for SEO rankings.

5. Customer ServiceYou can't effectively run customer service through GMB or Facebook alone. A dedicated FAQ page, service forms, or a live chat feature on your website shows customers you’re serious about handling their questions and concerns.

Google My Business vs. Website: Do You Need Both?

The short answer? Yes. Google My Business is critical for driving local traffic and ensuring you show up in relevant searches. It’s an amazing tool for visibility. But a website? That’s where you seal the deal. It’s where customers truly understand who you are and what your business stands for. GMB is a shortcut. Your website is the full story.

In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.