“The Algorithm Change That Just Killed Thousands of Online Businesses”
The Algorithm Change That Just Killed Thousands of Online Businesses
If you’ve been scouring the internet for deals and discounts recently, you might have noticed something strange: some of your favourite online stores or deal websites have disappeared. Poof! Gone. What’s going on? The answer lies in a recent algorithm change that has sent shockwaves through the e-commerce world. But don’t worry—this article will explain what happened, how it affects you, and most importantly, how you can still save money online.
What Happened?
In late 2023, a major search engine (we’ll let you guess which one) rolled out a significant update to its algorithm. This update was designed to prioritise high-quality, user-focused content and penalise websites that relied heavily on aggressive advertising, low-quality affiliate links, or spammy tactics. While this sounds like a win for consumers, it had a devastating side effect: thousands of small online businesses and deal websites were wiped off the map.
Key Point
The algorithm change prioritises websites offering genuine value to users, but many small businesses and deal sites couldn’t adapt quickly enough, leading to their downfall.
For example, imagine a website that used to rank highly for “best Black Friday deals.” If it was filled with intrusive ads, outdated deals, or poorly written content, it likely lost its ranking overnight. This left a gap in the market—and a lot of frustrated deal hunters.
How Does This Affect You?
If you’re someone who loves finding discounts, this change might feel like a double-edged sword. On one hand, the internet is now less cluttered with low-quality websites. On the other hand, some of your go-to sources for deals might have vanished. But here’s the good news: there are still plenty of ways to save money online. You just need to know where to look and how to adapt.
Pro Tip
Bookmark trusted deal websites and sign up for their newsletters. Many smaller sites are still thriving by focusing on quality over quantity.
Real Money-Saving Strategies
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the new online shopping landscape:
- Follow Social Media Influencers: Many influencers specialise in sharing deals and discounts. Look for accounts with a strong track record of posting reliable offers.
- Use Price Comparison Tools: Websites like PriceRunner or Google Shopping can help you find the best prices across multiple retailers.
- Join Online Communities: Forums like Reddit’s r/UKFrugal or Facebook groups often share exclusive deals and discount codes.
- Set Up Price Alerts: Tools like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon) or Honey can notify you when prices drop on items you’re interested in.
What’s Next for Online Businesses?
The algorithm change has forced many online businesses to rethink their strategies. Those that survive will likely focus on creating high-quality content, building trust with their audience, and offering genuine value. For consumers, this means fewer spammy websites and more reliable sources of information.
Key Point
The future of online shopping is about quality, transparency, and trust. Businesses that adapt will thrive, and consumers will benefit from better experiences.
For example, a small business that used to rely on affiliate links might now focus on creating detailed product reviews or helpful buying guides. This shift benefits everyone: businesses build loyal customers, and shoppers get the information they need to make informed decisions.
How to Spot a Trustworthy Deal Website
With so many websites vying for your attention, how can you tell which ones are worth your time? Here are some signs of a trustworthy deal website:
- Transparency: The website clearly states how it makes money (e.g., through affiliate links or ads).
- Up-to-Date Deals: Offers are current and regularly updated.
- User Reviews: The site includes genuine user feedback or ratings.
- No Pressure Tactics: Avoid sites that use phrases like “limited time only” or “act now” excessively.
Pro Tip
Check the website’s “About Us” page. A legitimate site will usually provide information about its mission, team, and values.
What You Can Do Right Now
If you’re worried about missing out on deals, here’s a quick action plan:
- Audit Your Bookmarks: Check if your favourite deal websites are still active. If not, start looking for alternatives.
- Diversify Your Sources: Don’t rely on just one website or platform. Spread your net wide to catch the best deals.
- Stay Informed: Follow industry news to stay ahead of future algorithm changes or trends.
Remember, the internet is always evolving. By staying adaptable and informed, you can continue to find amazing deals without falling victim to the latest changes.