Back in 2019, we wrote about the benefits of having a website for your frozen yogurt shop. Now that it’s 2024, we’d like to revisit the question, does your frozen yogurt shop need a website? The answer is YES – especially if you have multiple locations and/or are growing your brand.
We typed the search term, frozen yogurt near me, into Google and we saw the following:
- Yelp results for the best frozen yogurt shops in the area. Clicking on the link brings you to a list of frozen yogurt shops. The shop profile includes the shop’s website, phone number, directions, hours, menu, reviews, etc.
- Google Places results with the three closest shops. Clicking on the shop brings you to an expanded listing, including the shop’s website, phone number, directions, hours, menu, reviews, etc.
- Gayot results for best frozen yogurt in the area. Clicking on the link brings you to a list of frozen yogurt shops. The shop profile includes the shop’s website.
- Foursquare’s best frozen yogurt shops in the area
- Grubhub’s best frozen yogurt delivery in the area
The top three results make it easy for people to find your website. Be sure that your Google Place, Yelp, and Gayot profiles are accurate and complete.
Also, when you type the name of a specific frozen yogurt shop, the shop’s website appears first in the Google search results.
Key Reasons For Having a Website
Enhanced Visibility and Brand Identity
Having a dedicated website provides several benefits:
- Visibility: A website acts as your digital storefront, allowing potential customers to discover your frozen yogurt shop. It enhances your online presence and makes you more accessible. This is less important if you have little competition, are well-established, and most of your business comes from returning customers.
- Brand Identity: Customization lets you convey your brand’s personality, showcase your offerings, and share your story.
Detailed Information and Convenience
Unlike platforms like Google Places and social media, a website allows you to provide comprehensive information:
- Menu: Display your full menu, including flavors, toppings, and special options (such as vegan or no sugar added).
- Events and Promotions: Highlight special events, promotions, and loyalty programs.
- Online Ordering: Streamline the ordering process with online ordering or even offer an online store, online gift cards, etc.
Analytics and Independence
A website provides valuable insights through analytics tools:
- User Behavior: Understand visitor patterns, popular pages, and demographics.
- Independence: You own your content and aren’t reliant on external platforms.
Cost Considerations
While the benefits of having a website are clear, let’s address the costs:
- Initial Setup: Designing and launching a restaurant website can cost $4,000 – $10,000. You can choose between hiring a professional web designer or using website builders tailored for restaurants.
- Ongoing Costs: These include domain registration, hosting fees, and maintenance. Features like online ordering systems may incur additional charges.
- Time Investment: Managing a website requires time and effort. Regular updates, flavor changes, and responding to customer inquiries demand attention.
In 2024, a restaurant website is more than a digital brochure—it’s a dynamic tool for growth. While Google Places and social media play crucial roles, they complement rather than replace a well-crafted website. Invest wisely, harness the benefits, and create an online presence that leaves a lasting impression on your guests.
