Google Maps Launches Product Search

How customers search for and purchase products has leapt forward with Google Maps’ latest update. Introducing product-specific searches with real-time inventory visibility is a revolutionary step for shoppers and businesses.

But how can local businesses leverage this update to their advantage? Let’s dive into why this matters and how you can optimise your business for this powerful new feature.

What’s New in Google Maps?

Google Maps now offers:

• Product-specific searches: Customers can search for items like “pickleball rackets” or “board games” and find nearby stores that stock them.
• Real-time inventory visibility: Shoppers can see what’s available before visiting the store.
• Local pickup options: Convenience for last-minute shoppers looking to save time.

This update allows businesses to connect directly with nearby customers actively searching for specific products, creating a seamless experience from search to purchase.

Why Local Businesses Should Care

This update is a significant opportunity for local retailers to:

• Enhance Visibility: Businesses that enable this feature can reach customers searching for specific products nearby.
• Drive Foot Traffic: By showcasing in-stock products, customers are more likely to visit your store instead of looking elsewhere.
• Boost Sales: Meeting customer demand in real-time increases the likelihood of purchases.

If your business doesn’t leverage this feature, it risks missing out on customers actively looking for what it sells.

How to Optimise for Google Maps’ Product Search

To take advantage of this feature, businesses need to focus on three critical areas:

Implement Structured Data

Structured data markup is essential for showing product availability on Google Maps. Using Schema.org markup, you can provide Google with product details like name, price, and availability.

Still trying to figure out where to start? Learn how to implement structured data with help from our SEO services.

Keep Inventory Updated

Accurate inventory management is crucial for this feature to work. Businesses should:

• Sync with Google Merchant Center.
• Automate inventory updates to reflect real-time availability.
• Update data feeds at least every 24 hours.

For businesses needing help with inventory systems, FreshOnline can assist in integrating tools to keep your information accurate.

Optimise Your Google Business Profile

Your store’s Google Business Profile (GBP) must be up-to-date and optimised. Ensure:

• Store location and contact information are accurate.
• Operating hours are current.
• Pickup and delivery options are displayed.

Read our blog on The Importance of Local SEO for more tips on optimising your GBP for local search.

How FreshOnline Can Help

At FreshOnline, we specialise in helping local businesses improve their online visibility. With our expertise, you can:

• Implement structured data to display your inventory on Google Maps.
• Streamline your inventory management for accuracy.
• Optimise your Google Business Profile to attract more customers.

Explore our SEO services to learn how we can help your business succeed.

Why This Update Matters During the Holidays

The holiday shopping season is when many local businesses make the bulk of their revenue. With Google Maps’ product search:

• Shoppers can easily find what they need locally.
• Businesses can capture more sales from last-minute shoppers.
• The convenience of real-time inventory builds trust and loyalty with customers.

Don’t let your competitors get ahead—prepare your business now to take advantage of this feature.

Next Steps for Your Business

Want to ensure your business is ready to benefit from Google Maps’ product search? Here’s what to do:

1. Verify your setup on Google Merchant Center.
2. Add structured data to your website.
3. Keep inventory feeds updated regularly.
4. Optimise your Google Business Profile to attract local customers.

Need help? Contact FreshOnline to ensure your business is prepared to thrive in this new era of local search.

Read the Original Article

For more details, check out the original article on Google Maps Launches Product Search: Steps for Retailers.