Important Changes Coming to Google Business Profiles
Google Business Changes
Google has announced a significant change affecting websites created through Google Business Profiles. These simple sites, which automatically use information from your Business Profile, will be shut down. The deactivation process is set to take place by March 2024. As a result, from March onwards, these websites will no longer be functional. This change underscores Google’s focus on streamlining its services and may impact businesses relying on these websites for online presence. It’s crucial for affected businesses to explore alternative options for maintaining their online visibility.
Google Business Profiles
In a recent announcement, Google has revealed upcoming changes that will impact websites created with Google Business Profiles. These changes are set to take effect in March, and it’s crucial for website owners to take action to ensure a smooth transition.
Website Deactivation
Websites created with Google Business Profiles will be deactivated in March. Visitors attempting to access these websites will be automatically redirected to the Business Profile until June 10. After this date, visitors will receive a “page not found” error.
Action Required
To maintain your website, you’ll need to create a new site using alternative tools and update your Business Profile with the new site address before the deadline. This will help ensure that visitors can continue to access your website seamlessly.
Recommended Website Builders
Google recommends using alternative website-building tools, such as:
WordPress South Africa
Transform your website with WordPress, the ultimate platform for building and growing your online presence. Benefit from lightning-fast hosting, intuitive editing, and all the tools you need to expand your site and reach a wider audience, all seamlessly integrated into the WordPress experience.
Shopify South Africa
Shopify empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs, providing a platform trusted by the world’s biggest brands and everyone in between. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your business, Shopify offers the tools, support, and resources to help you succeed. Join a community of over a million businesses worldwide and discover why Shopify is the preferred choice for online selling.
GoDaddy South Africa
GoDaddy provides more than just a website building platform; we offer all-in-one solutions to create and maintain an effective online presence. From hosting plans to professional email services and online marketing tools, GoDaddy has everything you need to get your idea online. Our expert GoDaddy Guides are ready to provide personalized support every step of the way.
SquareSpace South Africa
Create a professional website with ease using our easy-to-edit templates, no coding skills required. Our platform offers full commerce and marketing features to help you run your business online smoothly. Start with a free trial, no credit card required, and explore the possibilities of building your online presence effortlessly.
WIX South Africa
Kickstart your online journey with over 900 free, customizable website templates, meticulously researched and tailored for every industry. Alternatively, unleash your creativity starting from a blank canvas using our intuitive website builder.
AD Campaign Solutions
If your Ads campaign is linked to a website from Google Business Profile, make sure to change the link before March 1 to keep your ads running. Alternatively, you can choose to pause your campaigns until the transition is complete.
Domain Redirection
If you’ve set up a custom domain to direct traffic to your Google Business Profile website, visitors to this domain will be redirected to your Business Profile until June 10. To manage this transition, log in to your hosting company account and select the “Redirect” option or a similar feature to reroute your third-party domain to a different website before the specified date.
What Google Says
According to a Google spokesperson, websites made with Google Business Profiles are basic websites powered by the information on your Business Profile. Domains that end with business.site and negocio.site will be removed from the website field on your Business Profile in March. Google recommends updating your Google Business Profile to point to a new website.
What happens Now
It’s essential for website owners to take action now to avoid disruptions to their online presence. By creating a new website using alternative tools and updating your Google Business Profile, you can ensure that your website remains accessible to visitors. Keep an eye on the deadline and make the necessary changes to maintain a seamless transition.
