Google and Squarespace, a prominent player in the website and domain industry, finalised a definitive agreement on June 15, 2023, wherein Google decided to sell its domain-hosting business. This acquisition, expected to close in the third quarter of 2023, will result in Squarespace acquiring approximately 10 million domains and related customer accounts from Google Domains.
According to a press statement, Matt Madrigal, Google’s Vice President and General Manager of Merchant Shopping, explained that the sale of the domain-hosting business to Squarespace is part of Google’s strategic focus to streamline its operations. Madrigal emphasised that Google is committed to ensuring a seamless transition for its customers who will be transferred to Squarespace.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of what this means for existing Google Domains customers and how the transition to Squarespace will unfold.
Integration with Google Workspace
Under the agreement, Squarespace will be the sole provider of domains for customers who purchase a domain together with their Google Workspace subscription directly from Google for at least three years. Furthermore, Squarespace will handle billing and support for Google Workspace customers who initially signed up through Google Domains. Customers will retain the ability to make changes to their domain accounts whenever they need, even as billing information is gradually migrated over time.
Pricing Continuity
For existing Google Domains customers, Squarespace has committed to honouring their renewal prices for at least 12 months following the completion of the acquisition. This ensures that domain hosting and management remain hassle-free, allowing customers to maintain their online presence without any unexpected financial burdens.
Seamless Transition
Squarespace and Google are working closely together to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for customers during this change. Squarespace will use Google’s infrastructure, which currently powers Google Domains, to help facilitate the smooth migration process. This collaboration aims to minimise disruptions and ensure a positive experience for all users.
Domain Management Simplified
Squarespace, known for its user-friendly platform, offers a domain management tool that combines simplicity with elegance. With this tool, users can easily perform various tasks such as editing DNS records and forwarding URLs. Squarespace’s emphasis on simplicity and usability makes managing domains easy and visually appealing.
Options for Customers
While the transition to Squarespace is the default path for existing Google Domains customers, it is important to note that this announcement does not hinder users’ ability to transfer their domains to any other registrar at any time. The freedom to move domains to another registrar prior to the transition or even afterward is preserved, granting customers flexibility and choice.
Looking Ahead
Although the majority of the benefits resulting from this acquisition will be realised in 2024 and beyond, Squarespace anticipates significant positive impacts on both revenue and free cash flow over time. The company’s commitment to providing an integrated experience, alongside their continuous platform enhancements such as the introduction of a “Members Area” feature, showcases their dedication to meeting evolving customer needs.
