Because not enough people knew JOANN Fabric existed — or that they were closing for good.
Yesterday, I was about to start driving for Target Shipt Referral Code when I decided to make a quick stop. We’re working on redecorating our little Valle Vista house, and I thought I’d pop into JOANN for some fabric — just to get ideas and maybe come back next week to do some actual shopping.
I was heartbroken. I had no idea they were shutting down. I figured at least I’d catch some deals, maybe grab a few things while I still could. But the store was already pretty much empty.
Purple is my décor mission. But I only found three purple fabrics that weren’t for kids, and that was about it. All the fun stuff was gone too — even that tape you use to “sew” curtains when you don’t know how to sew.
It hit me hard. JOANN’s has been around forever. And now, like all their stores across the country, this one is closing for good. Many locals didn’t even know we had one nearby. And why is that?
Because if people can’t find you on Google, they forget you exist.
And most small businesses in the HSJ area can’t be found in mobile searches — because many owners still don’t do any kind of online marketing… not even the free kind.
If You Can’t Be Found in Google Searches, They Will Forget You Exist
For today’s shoppers, showing up in local Google searches isn’t optional — it’s how you survive.
If a major retail chain like JOANN can quietly disappear because not enough people knew they were still open, what does that mean for local mom-and-pop businesses?
Here in the HSJ Valley, small shops are closing every week from lack of sales. Local service providers disappear without a trace. Some businesses never even get off the ground — all because they don’t show up where customers are looking.… in Google!
Being open isn’t enough anymore. People need to see you online when they’re searching for help or solutions.
And if they don’t? They’ll move on to the next business that does show up.
3 Quick Ways to See If You’re Showing Up on Google
If you own a small business in Hemet or San Jacinto, check to see if your business shows up in local Google searches. And if it does, ensure that the information, including the images, are accurate and relevant.
Here’s how to check, along with some quick fixes for getting found in Google searches:
1. Google Your Business Name
Do your hours, address, and contact info show up in a box on the right side of the screen (or the top on mobile)? If not, something’s off.
Try something like “smoked chicken Hemet” or “gardening supplies San Jacinto.” Do you show up at all? What page are you on? If the answer is no — or not page one — it’s time to fix that.
Quick Fix: Make sure your GMB, website, social media and local directory profiles specifically mention the main products you sell.
Open Google Maps and search your business name and category. Do you see your business pin on the map? Does the pin show the correct location? Is the photo actually your storefront (or your setup if you’re mobile or home-based)?
If you don’t see it, or it’s wrong, that’s costing you customers. You’re missing out on mobile search and walk-in foot traffic.
Quick Fix: Claim or update your GMB listing to correct the location, business category, and upload accurate images.
If you’re having trouble updating your location pin, shoot us a quick message — we’ll be happy to assist.
Don’t Be Invisible: Get Found on Google
JOANN isn’t closing because people don’t sew anymore. They’re closing because not enough people shopped there. And a big part of that is visibility — both locally and nationally.
While the corporate reasons behind JOANN’s closure involve multiple factors — like debt, changing retail trends, and e-commerce pressure — the takeaway for small businesses in Hemet and San Jacinto is crystal clear:
People still sew, craft, and DIY — just look at YouTube tutorials, Etsy sellers, or niche online supply shops. The interest didn’t disappear. Right here in Hemet, Hobby Lobby gets more foot traffic simply because it has better visibility. So, more people go there for the same types of goods.
Many locals didn’t even know JOANN was still open — that’s a visibility problem. And who knows how many mom-and-pop sewing, knitting, crocheting, crafting, or decorating shops are open in the area right now… that barely anyone knows about, simply because they have no online presence.
If a national chain can fade from public view, local businesses have to work even harder to stay visible — both online and in the community. Truth be told, Valle Vista Home Center could absolutely compete with Home Depot or Lowe’s locally if they put more into digital marketing to bring more shoppers to the east side.
Valle Vista Home Center could rival big chains with better digital marketing, including a free listing from VLP.
Struggling to Get Found on Google?
Our mission is to help the community Shop Local and Recycle Valley Dollars. But locals can’t find you if you’re not showing up in their searches. If you’re having trouble creating or updating your Google Business Profile, contact us.
We’ll guide you step-by-step to make sure your business stands out in local searches—and brings in more customers. We’ll even come out to your location and help in person if needed, free of charge.
For now, start by claiming your free local listing and take the first step toward being found in Google searches by more local customers in San Jacinto and Hemet today!
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