The newly introduced search box features four tiles showcasing promotions and events from nearby businesses.
I have mentioned the Google Business Profile (GBP) several times before and I hope you 1) have one for your business and 2) keep it updated.
The below showcases one more reason why you should have and update your GBP regularly: Google can get you customers for free.
Google is testing a new local search box called Nearby Events and Deals.
The new feature, which is only visible for local searches on mobile devices, displays Google Business Profile (GBP) posts promoting deals and events from nearby businesses.
What's in it for you?
This feature offers a chance for local businesses to boost conversions. To make the most of it, you should regularly post and optimize content on your GBP to increase the likelihood of your brand’s events and deals ranking higher.
I have also mentioned you should think of GBP as another social network, where you update your deals, events, promotions, wins, etc.
How does it work?
The Nearby Events and Deals feature was first spotted by Saad Alikhan who shared a preview on X:
The feature displays four tiles, complete with the company name, a promotional photo and a review rating.
My friend Manny would say: how cool is that!
If you select one of the tiles, Google will take you to a full-screen view of the offer in more detail. Here, you’ll find the name of the business, where it is situated on a map, an image of the promotion and some text. However, the feature has not yet been spotted on Google maps.
And that's how Google can get you free customers.
Notes:
- The four pack does not appear to have a “show more” option, meaning that visibility via this feature is very limited.
- The new Nearby Events and Deals feature is typically located further down the results page, under the local pack, organic results, “People also ask” and “People also search for” sections.
Takeaways
1) Make sure you have a Google Business Profile setup for your business.
2) Once you create your GBP, keep it updated, Google is telling us this is an important resource for them to provide searches with results about your business.
Don't know what this is or how to do it? Reach out to me, I can help you with free guides.
