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From Divisoria to Digital: A Guide to Digitizing Your Brick-and-Mortar Store

Taking your traditional Filipino business online can seem daunting. This practical guide breaks down the essential steps to successfully digitize your operations and reach a wider audience.
For generations, many successful businesses in the Philippines have thrived on face-to-face interactions and physical storefronts. But the world is changing, and the digital marketplace is no longer optional. Taking your traditional, brick-and-mortar business online can feel like a huge leap, but it's the key to future growth and resilience. Here's a simple guide to get you started.
1. Start with a Professional Website as Your Digital Foundation
Your website is your online headquarters. It's the one piece of digital real estate that you completely own and control. It should clearly list your products or services, tell your brand's story, and provide easy ways for customers to contact you. Even a simple, professional "Starter Site" can make a massive difference in how customers perceive your business.
2. Set Up Your Social Media Channels Correctly
Create business pages on the platforms where your customers spend their time, like Facebook and Instagram. Use high-quality photos and maintain a consistent brand look and feel across all platforms. Use these channels to engage with your community, share updates, and drive traffic back to your new website. My graphic design services can help you create a cohesive look.
3. Make it Easy for Local Customers to Find You Online
Local SEO is your best friend. The most important step is to create and optimize your Google Business Profile. This will get your business on Google Maps and make it easy for people in your area to find your address, phone number, and store hours. For more detailed tips, check out my guide to local SEO.
Going digital is a journey, not a destination. By taking these first steps, you can open up a whole new world of customers and opportunities for your business. Ready to take the leap? I'm here to help you every step of the way.

About the Author
Oliver Revelo is a freelance web developer and designer based in Rizal, Philippines. He specializes in building high-performance websites and applications for businesses. You can learn more about him on his about page.