On-Line In Exeter, Post Covid
From the end of 2019 the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe resulting in devastating loss of life as well as long-lasting disruption to families and businesses across the world. Unfortunately many small businesses closed for long periods and sadly some have remained shut for good. The historic cathedral city of Exeter in the centre of Devon was not immune to the problems faced across the country. One of the lasting effects of the pandemic is that local businesses now more frequently sell their wares online and communicate with customers in this manner.
How the pandemic changed shopping
During lockdowns, people who had rarely shopped online started ordering everything from groceries to gifts on their phones and laptops, and many kept the habit afterwards. At the same time, the rising cost of living has put pressure on high street businesses. National retailers such as Waterstones combine high street shops with busy online stores, and smaller independent businesses have had to find ways to compete.
Why a good website matters for Exeter businesses
For the many small business owners in and around Exeter, having a website for their business is now often the first point of contact that they have with their customers. Whether customers are checking opening hours, booking a table, ordering products online or comparing services, a clear, fast and mobile-friendly website will help local people find a business online and promote a business to visitors to the city before they even meet them.
That has kept local web designers busy. Exeter’s own locally based, professional, experienced, reputable and creative, Web Design Exeter Agency such as //exeter.nettl.com/web-design/ are helping small businesses in the city design and build websites that work for them.
What a small business website needs
- Clear information about what you offer and where you are.
- Up-to-date opening hours and contact details.
- A design that works well on phones.
- Online booking or ordering if it suits your business.
- Reviews and photos that show real customers and real work.
- A Google Business Profile that matches your website details.
The “new normal”
Although the worst of the pandemic is behind us, life now is often referred to as the ‘new normal’ and many local businesses are still finding their feet between offering a local experience in their physical shops, cafés and services, and an online experience that people can find before stepping through the door.
| Before the pandemic | Now |
|---|---|
| Website as an online leaflet | Website as a shop window, booking system and sales channel |
| Walk-in trade | Walk-in plus click-and-collect, delivery and online booking |
| Word of mouth | Word of mouth plus online reviews and social media |
Frequently asked questions
Does a small local business really need a website?
In most cases, yes. Your trade may consist of regulars and walk-in customers but before people visit these days they generally check out a business online first. A simple, well-made website with accurate information helps to build customer confidence and to attract new custom.
Is social media enough on its own?
Social media is useful for keeping in touch with customers, but you do not control the platform, and not everyone uses the same ones. A website gives you a permanent home online that you own, and works alongside your social media.
Where to go next
Planning a new site? Read our six tips for designing a great homepage.
