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The news for retail stores hasn’t been good this year. In fact, recent statistics show that there have been more retail store closings this year than even in the Great Depression. And those stores that aren’t closing have issues too. Moodys has identified an alarming number of stores that are predicted to file for bankruptcy this year.
But one expert says the key to running a successful retail business is as simple as making sure it’s in front of potential customers. “A study was released last year that shows almost half of all small business owners don’t have a website,” says a spokesman from FindUsLocal.com, a local business directory that uses GEO location technology to automatically match visitor’s locations with the results they see on the homepage. “And that can be a problem in a world where most consumers go online to find the local shops, service businesses, and restaurants they want to visit.”
He’s right. The old school marketing methods don’t work anymore and the local shop owners who have adapted to the times are the ones that are thriving.
“Just because a business owner doesn’t have the funds to build and markset a website, that doesn’t mean they can’t get an online presence,” he says. “Because when they create a business listing on a local business directory, they will have that all important online presence.”
An added benefit to listing a business on a local business directory instead of creating a website is that it’s free. Some local directories also offer a premium listing which gives that business prime real estate on the home page, but the fees are typically nominal.
“Local business owners need to keep up with the times in today’s economic climate, and one of the most important steps they can take is to ensure their business can be found online. If it can’t, consumers will pass them by and do business with a shop that can.”
About FindUsLocal: FindUsLocal uses geolocation technology in visitor’s browsers to construct a home page focused on their city, town or community. Right there on the front page, they’ll find local weather, sports results for their favorite teams, and announcements of the top musical acts and events coming to their city. Smart business owners list their businesses on the site to be seen by those who are specifically looking for businesses in their local area.
Release ID: 211454