Do You Really Need a Website for Your Small Business?
It's 2025 and you're still wondering if your business needs a website. Maybe you've got by on word-of-mouth. Maybe social media seems like enough. Here's the honest answer.
The Short Answer
Probably yes. 83% of small businesses now have websites, and 40% of leads come from search engines. Unless you're at full capacity with zero interest in growth, a website almost certainly makes sense. The question isn't really "do I need one?" but "what kind do I need?"
The 2025 Reality (What the Data Says)
Let's look at what's actually happening with small businesses and websites:
of small businesses have websites
Up from 65% in 2018
of leads come from search engines
vs 10% from social media
of consumers research online first
Before visiting or buying
book or enquire via websites
Not phone calls anymore
The question isn't whether websites still matter (they do, more than ever). It's whether your business specifically needs one.
Signs You DEFINITELY Need a Website
You Need a Website If:
- You want customers to find you on Google - Without a website, you won't appear in most search results
- Your competitors have websites - If they're findable online and you're not, you lose by default
- You spend money on business cards or flyers - A website works 24/7, cards sit in drawers
- Customers ask "do you have a website?" - They're literally telling you they want one
- You rely on word-of-mouth - A website amplifies referrals (people Google you after being recommended)
- You answer the same questions repeatedly - A website is an FAQ that works while you sleep
Signs You Might Not Need One (Yet)
A Website Might Not Be Urgent If:
- 100% referral-based at full capacity - Though even then, a site helps vet referrals
- Platform-based business - Selling exclusively on Etsy, Amazon, Uber, Fiverr
- Very local with no competition - The only plumber in a village (but even then...)
But Here's the Thing...
Even these businesses usually benefit from a simple website. At £8-50, the cost is negligible. A basic "about + contact" page takes 30 minutes to build. The downside risk is almost zero, the upside is meaningful.
"But I Have Social Media" — The Facebook Fallacy
This is the most common objection. Here's why social media doesn't replace a website:
Social Media Problems
- • You don't own it - Meta can change the rules anytime
- • Algorithm controls reach - Only 5-10% of followers see your posts
- • Can't rank on Google - No search visibility
- • Account can be disabled - Happens more than you'd think
- • Limited customisation - You look like everyone else
- • Professional credibility - Some industries expect websites
Website Advantages
- • You own it completely - No platform can take it away
- • Search visibility - 40% of leads from Google
- • Always accessible - No login required for visitors
- • Full control - Design exactly what you want
- • Credibility signal - Professionals have websites
- • Data ownership - You control the analytics
Where Do Leads Actually Come From?
Search Engines
Referrals
Social Media
Other (Ads, Direct)
"But I Can't Afford It" — The Cost Myth
This objection made sense in 2010. It doesn't in 2025.
| Option | Cost | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Web Agency | £3,000-10,000 | 6 months rent |
| Squarespace/Wix | £150-500/year | Weekly shop |
| AI Website Builder | £8-50 one-time | A few coffees |
The Real Cost Question
What's the cost of not having a website? If you lose even one customer who couldn't find you online, you've lost more than the cost of a website. Most businesses only need one or two website-generated leads to make it worthwhile.
Quick Decision Framework
Answer these questions:
Would you like new customers to find you?
If yes → You need a website
Do your competitors have websites?
If yes → You need a website (to compete)
Can you spare £8-50?
If yes → Cost is not a barrier
Can you spare 1-2 hours once?
If yes → Time is not a barrier
If you answered "yes" to any of the first two questions and "yes" to the last two, you should have a website. It's that simple.
What Kind of Website Do You Need?
Different businesses need different types of websites:
Simple Brochure Site
Home, About, Services, Contact. Perfect for most businesses.
Best for: Consultants, tradesmen, local services
Booking Site
Brochure site + appointment scheduling.
Best for: Salons, trainers, coaches, therapists
E-commerce
Product listings, cart, checkout.
Best for: Shops, artisans, product businesses
Portfolio
Visual showcase of work + contact.
Best for: Photographers, designers, artists
Start simple. You can always add features later. A basic brochure site is enough for most businesses to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a website for my small business in 2025?
For most small businesses, yes. 83% of small businesses now have websites, and 40% of leads come from search engines. If you want customers to find you online, a website is essential. The only exceptions are businesses at full capacity with 100% referrals, or those selling exclusively on platforms like Etsy or Amazon.
Can I just use social media instead of a website?
Social media is valuable, but it's not a replacement for a website. You don't own your social media followers (platforms can change algorithms or ban accounts), social only generates about 10% of leads compared to 40% from search, and you can't rank on Google with just a Facebook page. Think of social as an outpost, your website as your headquarters.
How much does a business website cost?
Website costs range from £8-50 with AI builders (one-time), £150-500/year with DIY platforms like Wix, to £3,000-10,000+ with agencies. For most small businesses, an AI builder provides professional results at the lowest cost.
What if my business is too small for a website?
No business is too small for a website in 2025. Even sole traders, freelancers, and side hustles benefit from having an online presence. With websites starting from £8, the cost barrier no longer exists. A simple one-page site with contact details is better than no online presence.
What kind of website does a small business need?
Most small businesses need a simple brochure site: homepage, about page, services/products, and contact. Service businesses (salons, consultants) benefit from booking functionality. Retail needs e-commerce. Start simple - you can always add features later.
Will a website help me get more customers?
Yes, if done right. Websites generate 40% of small business leads through search engines. They work 24/7, answering questions and capturing enquiries while you sleep. Combined with Google Business Profile, a website significantly increases your visibility to potential customers searching for your services.
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