For the millions of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across the world, staying competitive in today’s fast-paced market requires more than just hard work; it demands adaptability and a forward-looking mindset. Rising costs and shifting consumer expectations are creating new hurdles, but they also offer opportunities for growth and innovation.

With over 1.3 billion monthly active users, Facebook’s Messenger app is an unprecedented success. Facebook is now looking to fully utilize the potential of this monster user base and has therefore added a feature for improving connectivity between local businesses and consumers.

Although some view Facebook as a strictly social platform reserved for selfies and political rants, its $350+ billion market value screams otherwise. While it isn’t something you should be shoveling money into, it probably is a sales avenue you’re neglecting.