Ryan FowlerMore than a third of UK businesses remain without a website despite the rapid growth of online retail, according to analysis by York-based SEO agency Nomada Digital.
The findings highlight a widening gap between consumer buying habits and business adoption of digital tools.
Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that internet sales accounted for 26.3% of all UK retail in 2024, compared with 6.5% in 2010.
However, Google search data points to a 33% year-on-year fall in searches for “website builder”, indicating fewer business owners are taking steps to establish or update their online presence.
Figures from the Government’s UK Business Data Survey 2024 reveal that 32% of businesses have no website at all, rising to 35% of sole traders and 26% of micro firms.
Regional analysis shows that smaller cities are leading the way. Derby recorded a 200% rise in searches for “website builder” over the last year, with Hull up 150%.
Stoke, Cardiff and Portsmouth also reported growth. By contrast, Liverpool saw an 88% fall, London dropped 33% and Manchester 19%.
Nomada Digital said this suggests a potential north-south divide, with smaller regions in the North, Wales and Scotland beginning to prioritise digital presence while larger hubs risk stagnation.
At the same time, searches for “freelance website builder” have risen 40%, suggesting many businesses are moving away from do-it-yourself platforms towards outsourcing.
Danny Sullivan, founder of Nomada Digital, said: “It’s striking to see such a sharp rise in online retail alongside a fall in website builder interest.
“It suggests a disconnect between how people are buying and how some businesses are showing up online. With a third of businesses still without a website, the opportunity is clear – especially for smaller firms looking to stay visible and competitive.”
