How Google local business ads can drive traffic to your brick and mortar store.

Just like with websites, the ability to attract visitors to your physical storefront is a vital part of making your business profitable. Since 2006, savvy marketers have been using the power of Google local business ads to attract customers into their stores. Last week, Google announced a massive change to the local business system which provides far greater options for companies looking to entice people in their local market.

When a Google user types a query in Google Maps, they are automatically shown a list of businesses which relate to that search and their location on the map. For instance, if you were to type in “Subs in VA,” you would get a list of businesses related to subs that were around the Virginia area. For business owners, this is a great way to cheaply drive targeted local traffic into the store.

Previously, only the address, and website information was given for a site, but thanks to last week’s update, my search for subs allowed me the option to:

• Get directions to the store

• Search nearby locations

• Save the address to my maps

• Send the address to my email or cell phone

• Get a street view (only in select locations)

Also, Google has announced that shortly, there will be the option for advertisers to track how users interacted with their Google Maps results. This allows you to test and optimize listings to your heart’s content.

Google local business ads are a great way to get your business some extra foot traffic and with free listings, the price is right.
For more information about the new features visit Inside AdWords.