CATEGORY:
Website Design
17 May 2025
You’ve Got 12K Followers. So… Why Bother with a Website?
Let’s be real: social media has done wonders for food brands. It’s visual, vibey, and free (ish). But if your whole brand lives on Instagram or TikTok, you’re building your business on rented land — and the landlord is moody.
One algorithm change, one accidental ban, one “oops, we deleted your account” moment… and it’s lights out.
A solid website isn’t about being old-school. It’s about owning your space. And in a competitive industry like food and beverage, that ownership is a game-changer.
Let’s get into why.
Instagram Is a Vibe. Your Website Is a Business Tool.
Social is built for browsing. Websites are built for doing.
On your website, you control the journey. You can:
Take bookings or orders
Tell your story your way (not in a 60-second reel)
Link to your loyalty program or newsletter
Showcase your menu and opening hours (without that “link in bio” dance)
And because your website doesn’t change with the algorithm, it delivers a consistent, high-converting experience — whether someone clicks from Google or finds you on a flyer.
A Website Makes You Legit (Even If You’re a Tiny Team)
Whether you're a street-side food truck or a multi-site café, a great website makes you look pro.
It says: “Hey, we’re not just a fun Instagram grid. We’re a real-deal business with a clear vibe, voice, and vision.”
People want to know you’re established. They want to trust you’ll still be around next week. Your website gives that trust a home.
You’ll Get Found on Google (Not Just on Someone’s Feed)
You know what Instagram doesn’t do well? Search.
If someone Googles “best vegan brunch in Brisbane,” your Insta profile won’t cut it. But a well-optimised website? You’ve got a shot.
With even basic SEO, your site can:
Show up in local searches
Get featured in “Top 10” articles
Be shared in DMs, newsletters, or blogs
Which means you’re discoverable outside your follower bubble.
It Future-Proofs Your Brand (And Opens Up Opportunities)
Thinking of launching merch? Want to take online orders? Planning to expand? None of that’s easy if your brand only lives on socials.
A website sets the foundation now so you can grow later — without starting from scratch.
It’s Not Either/Or. It’s Both.
This isn’t a roast on Instagram. We love a good reel as much as anyone does. But social and websites should work together — not compete.
Post the mouthwatering shots on Insta
Link to your latest menu on your website
Let people book, browse, and buy with zero friction
It’s about creating an ecosystem where your brand isn’t just seen — it’s remembered, trusted, and acted on.
TL;DR?
If Instagram is your window display, your website is the entire store. You need both — but only one is fully under your control.
Ready to build a website that does more than just look good?
