It's a fair question. You can get found on Google through your Google Business Profile. You can take bookings through Facebook. You can sell products on Etsy or Amazon. Do you really need a website?
The short answer: for most businesses, yes. But let's look at why.
You Don't Control Social Media Platforms
Facebook decides how many of your followers see your posts (spoiler: not many, unless you pay). Instagram can change its algorithm overnight. Your Etsy shop exists at Etsy's pleasure.
Your website? That's yours. No algorithm changes, no surprise policy updates, no risk of being suspended because an automated system made a mistake.
First Impressions Matter
When someone Googles your business – and they will – what do they find? A professional website builds instant credibility. A missing website, or a terrible one, does the opposite.
Like it or not, people judge your business by your online presence. A tradesperson with a clean, professional website feels more trustworthy than one with just a Facebook page.
Websites Work While You Sleep
A good website is a 24/7 salesperson. It answers questions, shows off your work, builds trust, and captures enquiries – at 3am on a Sunday, during your holiday, whenever.
And if you add a chatbot? Even better.
SEO Is Still Powerful
When someone searches "electrician near me" or "plumber in [your town]", Google shows local results. Having a website – properly optimised – dramatically improves your chances of appearing in those results.
No website means you're relying entirely on your Google Business Profile, which only gets you so far.
What About Cost?
This is where many small businesses hesitate. A custom website can cost thousands to build, plus hundreds per year in hosting.
But it doesn't have to. At Zero Stress, we offer professional websites from £49/month – design, hosting, maintenance, and updates all included. For less than the cost of a few social media ads, you get a professional online presence that you control.
The Bottom Line
A website isn't mandatory for every business. But if you want to be taken seriously, appear in Google searches, and have a platform you control, it's one of the best investments you can make.