Having an online presence used to be a luxury. These days it's a necessity, and even "bricks and mortar" stores now realize that their businesses can't maximize profits without going online. As a result, most have become "clicks and mortar" stores, allowing their customers to choose between a virtual or physical storefront.
Your Web site can sell products or services, provide customer service or direct customers to other Web sites. This is called affiliate marketing and is very lucrative. Even if your business is not selling on the Web, your Web site can serve as an electronic brochure and a great marketing tool.