Having websites have become a must for companies, and Google provides the means necessary for that.
Google My Business is a free tool that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google apps. By having a Google My Business account, businesses can create a listing that appears when people search for their business or businesses like theirs on Google Search and Maps.
Business owners can add information such as their business name, location, hours, website, phone number, and photos.
They can also use the platform to interact with customers by responding to reviews, posting updates, and sharing photos.
Google My Business is a great way for businesses to increase their online visibility and attract new customers.
And this is ending.
According to Google in an announcement, the company is planning to shut down its Google Business Profiles in March.
After that date, ads campaign through a website from Google Business Profile will stop working. Customers attempting to visit website will also be automatically redirected to Business Profile until June 10.
After this date, visitors will encounter a "page not found" error, Google announced.
Businesses that use Google Business Profiles to have a presence on the web, needs to either develop and maintain their own website, or create a new website using alternative tools.
If so, they need to update their Business Profile with the new website address before the deadline, in order to ensure smooth transition.
"To continue having a website for your business, you could consider using a site builder," said Google
The company suggests tools like:
- Wix.
- Squarespace.
- GoDaddy.
- Google Sites.
- Shopify.
- WordPress.
These alternatives are pretty much similar to Google Business Profile, as they also allow businesses to maintain their online listings, respond to reviews, track engagements, and more.
But what's worth noting, each platform has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important for businesses to conduct their own research and compare different options to find the best fit for their purpose.
"Websites made with Google Business Profiles are basic websites powered by the information on your Business Profile," said a Google spokesperson.
"Domains that end with business.site and negocio.site will be removed from the website field on your Business Profile in March. We recommend that you update your Google Business Profile to point to a new website."