With the economy in a recession, business trends have moved online. Companies large and small are making the move to survive. What they are finding is competition for front page exposure in the top search engines is stiff. Increasingly, they are seeking out web design and seo company north carolina that demonstrate the experience and track record of proven success. Due to higher gas prices and increased internet security, shoppers are buying online. According to the Census Bureau, revenues from online sales have grown by nearly fivefold from $7.4 billion in the third quarter of 2000 to $34.7 billion in the third quarter of 2007. In July 2008 alone, there were almost 12 Billion U.S. searches conducted on the top search engines, according to Search Engine Watch. With decreasing local sales due to the economy, many small business owners are investing in online virtual real estate by creating a website to expand their reach and market.