If you’re a business owner in Liverpool, you already know how competitive it is to get noticed online. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: far too many Liverpool businesses lose out on customers because of website mistakes that are easily fixed. Don’t let your hard work go to waste!

Today, I’ll walk you through the most common website slip-ups I see among Liverpool SMEs—and show you, step-by-step, how to tackle each, using real local examples for inspiration.

1. Slow Website Loading Times

What’s the problem? A website that takes more than a few seconds to load will drive potential customers away—especially impatient Scousers eager to book a table, buy a ticket, or get a quote.

Why does it matter? Research shows over half of users leave if a site isn’t loaded in three seconds. For Liverpool businesses, every second counts—especially when people are making snap decisions on their phones.

How to fix it:

• Compress your images before uploading (use free tools like TinyPNG).
• Host your site with a reliable UK-based provider.
• Remove unnecessary plugins and widgets.
• Test your speed with Google’s PageSpeed Insights.

Liverpool Example: When Bold Street Coffee upgraded its hosting and trimmed down its image sizes, page load time dropped from 7 to 2 seconds. Result? Online bookings jumped and customers said they loved the “slick new site.”

2. Not Mobile-Friendly

What’s the problem? If your website doesn’t work well on a phone, it doesn’t work well—period. Over 60% of local searches in Liverpool happen on mobile devices.

How to fix it:

• Choose a responsive website design (all modern WordPress/Wix themes offer this).
• Check your site on multiple phones and tablets, not just desktop.
• Make sure buttons and forms are easy to tap.
• Use Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test.

Liverpool Example: Lark Lane Florist saw a dip in orders from younger customers. After switching to a mobile-optimised layout, their online sales doubled within a month—simply because customers could order flowers in a few taps.

3. Weak (or Missing) Calls-to-Action

What’s the problem? Too often, Liverpool websites forget to tell visitors what to do next—book, buy, contact or claim an offer. Without a strong call-to-action (CTA), your site is just a digital leaflet.

How to fix it:

• Add big, clear buttons: “Book Now,” “Get a Free Quote,” “Order Online.”
• Put your CTA above the fold (the top part of the page).
• Make your phone and email clickable.

Liverpool Example: Anfield Auto Repairs added a “Book Your MOT Online” button on every page. Online bookings jumped by 45% the same month.

4. Outdated Contact Information

What’s the problem? Nothing is more frustrating to a customer than showing up at an old address, calling a dead phone line, or turning up when you’re closed.

How to fix it:

• Review and update address, phone, and email at least every quarter.
• Clearly list your opening hours (and update for holidays!).
• Embed a Google Map of your exact location.

Liverpool Example: When Albert Dock Gym changed opening hours but forgot to update their website and listings, dozens of customers turned up at the wrong time. Lesson learned: now, they check and update their website monthly.

5. No Local SEO Optimisation

What’s the problem? If your website never mentions “Liverpool” (or Toxteth, Wavertree, Southport, etc.) in its text and headings, you’re missing local customers searching for ‘[service] Liverpool.’

How to fix it:

• Add “Liverpool” to your main page titles, headlines, and meta descriptions.
• Set up and optimise your Google Business Profile.
• Encourage local reviews mentioning your area.

Liverpool Example: Smithdown Road Plumbers updated their headlines to “Emergency Plumber Liverpool”—and leapt onto page one of local Google search.

6. Using Stock Images Instead of Real Photos

What’s the problem? Generic, American-looking stock photos don’t inspire trust—local customers want to see real people, local premises, and authentic products.

How to fix it:

• Invest in a quick photoshoot with a Liverpool photographer (often less than £100).
• Take quality photos with your smartphone showcasing your location, staff, and products.
• Update your homepage and about page first.

Liverpool Example: Bebington Bistro swapped stock images for photos of the team and their actual dishes. Regulars immediately recognised the decor and menu—building instant trust.

7. No Customer Reviews or Testimonials

What’s the problem? If Liverpool customers can’t see proof that others trust your business, they’re less likely to buy, book, or visit.

How to fix it:

• Ask happy customers for feedback—make it easy with a quick email or QR code.
• Feature recent reviews on your homepage and service pages.
• Respond to reviews and thank customers publicly.

Liverpool Example: Sefton Tutors posted three new testimonials from local parents each month on their site. Result: more local bookings and calls straight from their glowing web reviews.

Final Thoughts: Give Your Liverpool Website a Quick Health Check

Many of these issues can be fixed in less than a day—and the payoff can be huge. Take 10 minutes to look at your website right now.

• Is it fast?
• Mobile-friendly?
• Clear in what you want the customer to do?
• Proudly showing off real photos and local reviews?

If not, start with just one fix this week. Or, if you want an expert set of eyes, contact us for a free Liverpool Website Audit — let’s make your business stand out online!