Introduction
The Winds of Change: Google My Business Sunset in March 2024
In a significant announcement, Google has officially declared the impending discontinuation of websites created through its free service, Google My Business, starting March 2024. The news, conveyed through their official blog, has raised concerns and sparked a need for businesses to adapt swiftly to ensure an uninterrupted online presence.
The Transition Period: What to Expect Until June 10, 2024
Google has assured users that until June 10, 2024, individuals visiting pages created with Google My Business will be automatically redirected to their new websites. Additionally, custom domain names used to redirect traffic to a website created with Google My Business will also redirect users to their business profiles during this transition period.
Implications of Google My Business Deactivation
According to Google’s statement, domains ending in business.site and negocio.site will be removed from the realm of Google Business Profile websites. To mitigate any potential impact, Google strongly advises users to update their Google My Business information promptly, ensuring a seamless redirection of customers to their new websites.
The company clarifies on its official website, stating, “Apart from that, your business profile won’t be affected. When customers visit your website created with Google My Business, they will be redirected to your Google business profile.” However, it is crucial to acknowledge that many e-commerce businesses that heavily relied on the convenience of creating a website through this platform may face challenges during this transition.
An essential point to highlight is that after June 10, customers attempting to access websites created with Google Business Profile will encounter a “Page Not Found” error.
Google’s Recommendation: Creating Alternative Websites
In light of these changes, Google recommends businesses to proactively create alternative websites using popular website builders such as Wix, Squarespace, GoDaddy, Google Sites, Shopify, WordPress, or any other CMS platform available in the market. This proactive approach ensures that businesses don’t find themselves without a website post the Google My Business deactivation.
It’s crucial to note that this development shouldn’t come as a surprise. In 2021, Google had already announced the rebranding of Google My Business to “Google Business Profile” and the eventual retirement of the Google My Business application in 2022. The current move represents another step in this transition process.
On another note, Google has highlighted that for those using Google Ads with a website created through Google My Business, advertisements must be updated to redirect to an alternative website. The deadline for this update is set for March 1, 2024.
Conclusion
Embracing Change: Ensuring Your Online Presence Thrives
As we navigate through the changes brought about by Google My Business’s transition, it becomes imperative for businesses to act swiftly and decisively. The recommended steps include updating Google My Business information, creating alternative websites through reputable platforms, and ensuring that Google Ads campaigns are adjusted to redirect to the new online destinations.
Adapting to the evolving digital landscape is not only a necessity but an opportunity for businesses to enhance their online presence and stay ahead in the competitive market. By embracing change and leveraging the diverse website creation options available, businesses can ensure a seamless transition and continue thriving in the online realm.
