Is your business website helping or hurting your local visibility?

In today’s digital world, your website is often the first impression people get of your business. Whether you’re based in Axminster, Chard, Honiton, or anywhere across Devon and Dorset, having the right features in place is crucial for winning local customers and outperforming nearby competitors.

Here are five essential website features every local business needs:

1. Mobile-Responsive Design

Over 60% of searches come from mobile devices. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re losing potential leads before they even load your homepage. A responsive layout ensures your site looks great and functions perfectly on phones and tablets.

2. Clear Calls-to-Action (CTAs)

Whether it’s a “Get a Quote” button or a contact form, your visitors need clear direction. Every page should guide them to take the next step — contacting you, booking a service, or learning more.

3. Local SEO Optimisation

Your site should include your location throughout the content (not just in the footer). Pages optimised for keywords like “Website design in Chard” or “Honiton SEO experts” help you rank higher in local search results.

4. Fast Loading Speeds

Google prefers fast websites — and so do your customers. If your pages are slow, people bounce. Speed also affects your rankings. Use tools like GTmetrix or Google PageSpeed Insights to monitor and improve load times.

5. Reviews & Trust Signals

Showcasing customer testimonials or Google reviews builds trust instantly. Embed your best reviews and make it easy for new clients to leave their own feedback.

Need Help With Your Local Business Website?

At Kode Designs, we create high-performing, SEO-optimised websites for businesses across the South West — including Axminster, Seaton, Lyme Regis, and beyond. From responsive design to local SEO and ongoing support, we’re your digital partner for long-term success.

Let’s get started on making your website work harder for your business.