Why Most Small Businesses Still Don’t Have a Proper Website
After 20+ years in the industry, I’ve seen the same patterns again and again. Here’s why so many good businesses are still missing out — and what actually helps.
After more than 20 years working with websites and digital marketing, one thing still surprises me: how many small businesses still don’t have a proper website.
Some rely on a Facebook page that rarely gets updated. Others try the DIY route and end up with something that technically exists, but doesn’t really work for their business. And then there are the business owners who want a proper website — they just can’t justify the cost or navigate the confusing world of web design pricing.
The real barriers
When I speak to business owners, the reasons they give usually fall into a few categories:
“It’s too expensive.”
Many people assume a website will cost thousands of pounds. In some cases they’re right — but often they’ve been quoted for a much more complicated site than they actually need.“I don’t know what I need.”
A lot of people say they just want “a basic site,” but when asked what that actually means, they struggle to describe it. Without a clear picture, it’s hard to get an accurate quote or move forward.“I tried doing it myself but it was too complicated.”
Tools like WordPress, Squarespace, and website builders can work well — but they still require time, technical comfort, and ongoing maintenance. For many business owners, that’s time they simply don’t have.“I don’t want to be tied into a long contract or big upfront cost.”
This is a big one. Many people are put off by having to commit to large projects or pay significant amounts before they’ve even seen what they’re getting.
What I’ve learned from talking to hundreds of business owners
Over the years, I’ve found that the businesses who are happiest with their website usually started with a very simple question:
“Show me a site you like the look and feel of.”
This one step removes so much uncertainty. It gives me a clear direction, allows me to create a quick mock-up, and makes it much easier to give an accurate price.
What I’ve heard time and time again though is that people don’t actually want anything complicated. They just want something professional that represents their business well and helps them get more customers — without the stress, high costs, or long-term commitments.
That’s why I created Starter Sites
Starter Sites is built around one simple idea: a clean, professional one-page website shouldn’t be complicated or risky to get.
You choose a design you like, we customise it to your business, and you pay a simple monthly fee with no long contracts and no big upfront payment. If it works for you, great. If it doesn’t, you can leave anytime.
Because the model only works if customers stay, it’s genuinely in our interest to keep your website performing well and to make sure you’re happy with the service.
The bottom line
Having a proper website doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Many small businesses don’t have one not because they don’t want one — but because the process has historically been too complicated, too expensive, or too uncertain.
If that sounds familiar, I’d love to show you how straightforward it can actually be.
