Is it good for business to publish a website before the business starts?

[Jasmine]

Will soon be starting a food service in the next few months and I'm not quite sure when to design and publish a website. Rather if I do it now and have Coming Soon on the page, how will that help or hurt or business? Or should I wait until the business launches?

[billrussell42]

It's fine, just be clear that you are not quite open for business. Perhaps a count down ... XX days till we open...

How could it not help? Except if you went belly up before opening, but in that case, you don't care.

[CCC]

Use facebook or any social advertising sites(because its free) as of now to inform everyone about your starting business.
Wait until your business launches before you spend to publish its site. Its a waste of money to spend for a site which only contains "Coming Soon".

[Amy]

Definitely sooner the better... great advice here... creating buzz is a great way to get a lot of people to your "grand opening" event (which you definitely want to have). Having a countdown and letting customers know what you will have to offer is a great idea. Social media was mentioned and is very important... if you have friends or family that have tried your product, have them put testimonials on your website and social media with things like... can't wait for the store to open!

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