Why Your Business Needs a Website (Not Just a Facebook Page)
Spoiler alert: Facebook isn’t your website. And relying on it could be holding your business back.
I see it all the time, regional businesses running everything from a single Facebook page. No website. No Google presence. Just a few photos, a Messenger inbox, and maybe a post from three weeks ago about “new stock arriving soon.”
If that sounds familiar, don’t worry. You’re not doing it wrong. It’s where a lot of us start. But if you’re serious about growing your business beyond your postcode (or just want to make life easier), here’s why a proper website is the next step you need to take.
You Don’t Own Your Facebook Page
Your Facebook page might feel like your little corner of the internet but it’s still borrowed space. You don’t own it. Meta does.
They can change how your page looks, who sees your posts, or what features are available whenever they want. And if your page gets hacked, reported, or restricted, your whole business presence can vanish in a flash.
A website, on the other hand, is yours. You control the content, the branding, the updates and no one can take it away.
People Still Google You
Even in small towns, when someone hears about your business, the first thing they’ll do is jump on Google. If the only thing that pops up is a Facebook page, they might not even click it, especially if they’re not logged in, don’t have Facebook, or can’t find the info they need at a glance.
A proper website with your business name, services, and location helps you show up in Google results, build trust, and look more professional.
Local Searches and "Near Me" Queries
When visitors come to town and search for services like “café near me” or “hairdresser (your town’s name),” Google shows a list of nearby businesses usually from Google Maps and verified Business Profiles. That list is mostly made up of businesses that have a website and a Google Business listing.
If you only have a Facebook page and no website, you’re unlikely to show up in these local search results. That means people visiting the area (or locals searching online) might not even know you exist—especially if they don’t already know your business name.
Because that’s the other thing: Facebook only works if people already know to look for you. If they’re just searching for a type of business like “bakeries nearby” or “gift shops in town”, you won’t show up unless your business is properly listed with a connected website. So even if you’re the best in town, you could be missing out on new customers simply because they can’t find you.
Having a website boosts your chances of showing up in search results, getting found by people who are actively looking, and converting browsers into buyers.
A Website Builds Credibility
Let’s be real: a Facebook-only business can feel a bit... temporary. Customers want to know you’re established, reliable, and serious about what you do. A clean, easy-to-use website tells people, “Yep, we’re the real deal.”
Bonus? It also makes your business feel bigger without actually needing to be bigger.
ou Can Actually Sell (or Book) Online
You don’t need to be running a massive online store to benefit from e-commerce. A simple website can let people:
Place an order to pick up
Book a service online
Browse your menu or services
Fill in a form to get a quote
That means fewer DMs, fewer missed messages, and a smoother experience for you and your customers.
Not Everyone Uses Social Media
Yep, it’s 2025 and believe it or not, not everyone is on Facebook. And some people actively avoid it.
If you’re only posting on social media, you’re missing out on a chunk of your audience who’d happily browse your services or buy from you if they could find your website.
Your Website Works Even When You Don’t
Unlike a Facebook post that gets buried in a feed within hours, your website is always working in the background. It gives people somewhere to:
Find your opening hours
Read your story
Check your services or prices
Contact you directly
All while you’re sleeping, working, or enjoying a well-earned break.
It’s More Affordable Than You Think
You don’t need to spend thousands to get a great website for your business. At Prairie Studio, I create modern, easy-to-manage websites that don’t cost the earth—and are designed specifically for regional businesses like yours.
Whether you’re running a café, selling handmade goods, or offering local services, I’ll help you set up a site that works for your goals and your budget.
Final Word
Facebook is great for keeping your customers in the loop. But it’s not a substitute for a proper online home. A website gives your business the space to grow, reach new people, and make your life easier along the way.
So if you’ve been putting it off? Consider this your sign. Let’s build something better than a Facebook page.