Based on my knowledge, sudden changes in website structure can indeed affect search engine rankings, especially when a shift from a subdirectory to a subdomain is involved. When you move content to a subdomain, search engines treat it as a separate entity, often leading to a loss in authority and potential ranking.
To resolve this issue, I recommend reviewing your
SEO strategy and implementing a few key steps. Firstly, ensure that you set up proper 301 redirects from the old URLs to the new ones, including those in the subdomain. This will help retain some of the authority from the old URLs and minimize the impact on your rankings.
Additionally, focus on building quality backlinks to the new subdomain to enhance its authority. You should also optimize your content on the subdomain with relevant keywords and high-quality, engaging content. Regularly updating your blog with fresh and valuable content can also signal to search engines that your subdomain is an active and authoritative source of information.
Furthermore, consider reviewing your site structure and ensure that your subdomain is easily accessible and linked from the main Shopify site. This will help search engine crawlers navigate through your site more efficiently and potentially improve your subdomain's visibility.
If you're still experiencing difficulties, it might be beneficial to consult with an SEO expert who can conduct a thorough analysis of your website and provide tailored recommendations to improve your ranking.
Cheers!