Alternatives to Google Business Profiles Websites Closing in March

If your local business has a website created using Google Business Profiles, it's time to consider switching to a different website solution. Google has announced plans to discontinue websites created through Google Business Profiles in March.

Websites Created With Google Business Profiles Will Redirect Until June 10, 2024

A redirect will be put in place from your GBP website to your Google Business Profile until June 10, 2024.

Websites created using Google Business Profiles are simple websites that utilize the information from your Business Profile.

Starting in March 2024, websites built with Google Business Profiles will no longer be operational, and visitors to your site will be automatically redirected to your Business Profile.

The redirect will work until June 10, 2024.”

How To Find Out If You Have A Google Business Profile Website

To determine if your business has a website through Google Business Profile, simply search for your business name on Google. Upon locating your Google Business Profile, proceed to edit your profile and verify the presence of your website in the contact section.

If your business is associated with a Google Business Profile website, it will display a message stating, "You have a website created with Google."

Otherwise, it will allow you to add the link to your website.

Websites Created With Google Business Profiles To Shut Down In March

Screenshot from Google, February 2024

Choosing An Alternative Website Builders For Small Businesses

Google recommends Wix, Squarespace, GoDaddy, Google Sites, Shopify, Durable, Weebly, Strikingly, and WordPress as alternative options for creating a new website or ad landing page to replace the Google Business Profiles site.

Some of these alternatives, such as WordPress, provide a free website builder with generative AI capabilities. However, it is important to note that the content of WordPress users may be shared with OpenAI and Midjourney for training purposes unless they choose to opt out.

WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace demonstrated the most enhancements in performance when it comes to Core Web Vitals.

Additionally, it is important to mention that even though Google Deepmind utilized a Google Sites website to unveil Genie, its latest AI model, Google Sites might not be the most optimal choice for SEO.

Updating Ad Campaigns

If your Google Ads campaign is connected to a website built with Google Business Profiles, please note that the campaign will cease running on March 1, 2024, unless the website link is refreshed.

There is still an opportunity to upgrade your business website before June 10, 2024, to prevent visitors from encountering a 404 error page. If you have not yet selected a new website builder or hosting service, take the time to research and read reviews to identify the best option that is reliable, cost-effective, and optimized for your business needs.

Featured image: Vladimka production/Shutterstock

Editor's P/S:

The news of Google discontinuing websites created through Google Business Profiles comes as a surprise, leaving many small businesses scrambling for alternatives. The impending shutdown in March, followed by the termination of redirects in June 2024, creates a tight timeline for businesses to transition their websites to a new platform. It's concerning that Google did not provide ample notice, potentially leaving some businesses without a website for an extended period.

The article provides a list of alternative website builders, but it's important for businesses to carefully evaluate their options and select a platform that aligns with their specific needs and budget. The mention of generative AI capabilities in WordPress is intriguing, but businesses should be aware of the potential for their content to be used for training purposes unless they opt out. Ultimately, it's crucial for businesses to act promptly to avoid disruptions and ensure a seamless transition to a new website solution that meets their evolving requirements.