In the spirit of connecting users with local businesses, Google recently introduced a new way to boost search rankings. The new section, “Add in-store products,” allows sellers to list commodities on their Google Business Profile. This local SEO ranking factor runs on Pointy, a Google tool that promotes physical stores to local customers. The good news is adding in-store goods to Google is free: Pointy designs your product feeds after creating a Merchant Center platform.
Why Google’s Local SEO Ranking Factor Is Important
By shifting from standard business locators to inventory identifiers, this update revolutionizes local searches by promoting product-driven results. Although local search ratings generated traffic before the update, a local SEO ranking factor grants you a competitive edge. The product inventory integration that was nonexistent a few months ago now appears on every top-ranked listing.
For starters, adding in-store products increases shop visibility. By viewing in-store commodities on your Google Business Profile and search results, customers know what you sell without visiting your store. Moreover, customers can check a product’s availability in your shop. It’s not uncommon for shoppers to find products in their locality through Google.
This is in addition to the “Browse by product” feature. You may disregard this tab, but “Browse by product” occupies a large space on the SERP since it appears above conventional business location lists. That makes the feature more prominent, which can increase user interaction.
How Google Defines Local Rankings
Google uses the following factors to rank local businesses:
- Relevance. This is how closely a user’s search query relates to local businesses.
- Distance. It’s the search result’s proximity to the location mentioned in a user’s query. The nearer a user is to a business, the greater the chances of appearing on map results. When the user doesn’t name a location, Google uses what they know about the individual’s position to calculate distance.
- Prominence. This is a local business’s offline popularity. Google can also use web articles, directories, and links to determine a store’s prominence.
Other Ways to Improve Local Rankings
Besides adding in-store products, Google offers other tips to boost search rankings. First off, use full details on your Google Business Profile to communicate your offerings and how customers can find you. Inputting complete information also allows search engines to match your shop with the right queries.
Additionally, Google advises sellers to confirm their locations to make their businesses visible on search results. This goes hand in hand with including photos to convince users you have what they need. Don’t forget to update working hours. By indicating when the shop opens and closes, customers understand when you’re available to serve them. At the same time, check your reviews for customer feedback. Most shoppers depend on reviews to guide their purchases. While positive reviews increase credibility, negative comments reveal customer pain points. However, having many reviews boosts your search rankings, regardless of whether the ratings are positive or negative.
Is This Tool for You?
Many businesses are reaping the benefits of adding-in-store products. No matter what you sell or the size of your business, this local SEO ranking factor promotes your shop’s visibility to drive both traffic and sales.
Through digital marketing, your business is poised to grow. Uptick Marketing can help. Contact our search engine experts for more!
