In a significant move, Google has announced the closure of its Business.Site web services effective March 1, 2024. This decision impacts local businesses that previously used Google’s Business Profile service (previously known as “Google My Business”) to create complementary websites hosted on business.site subdomains. For instance, a typical website address would appear as bobsplumbing.business.site for example. Google, in a recent notification, informed users of its plan to discontinue these websites.
Beginning March 1, 2024, any traffic to these business.site web pages will be automatically redirected to the associated Google Business Profile. This redirection will continue until June 10, 2024, after which the websites will become inaccessible. This move by Google aligns with its recent sale of Google Domains to Squarespace, suggesting a strategic shift in its business model.
Google sent out detailed emails to Google Business Profile account holders, explaining the upcoming changes. The email highlighted that websites created through Google Business Profiles are being phased out. From March 1, 2024, visitors to these sites will be redirected to the business’s Google Business Profile, which can display similar business information and links to social media. This redirection is a temporary measure, lasting until June 10, 2024, after which the sites will be completely taken offline.
The email also advised businesses to update their profiles with alternative website links. It mentioned various website builders like Wix, Squarespace, GoDaddy, Google Sites, Shopify, and WordPress as potential alternatives for creating new websites.
Furthermore, the Google Support page provides additional details about this transition. Domains ending in business.site and negocio.site will be removed from Business Profiles in March. Google recommends updating your Business Profile with a new website link. This change will not impact those who haven’t used Google Business Profile to create a website.
For businesses currently using a Business.Site address in their Google Business Profile, it’s advisable to establish a new website with platforms. That is where Novak Networx can come in. If you are at risk of losing your business website or just need a simple website please let us know. You can set up a free website consultation here, or simply give us a call to schedule a time.