Google Unveils “Nearby Events and Deals” for Local Search Boost

Google is at the forefront again, rolling out an innovative feature aimed at enhancing local search experiences. Dubbed “Nearby Events and Deals,” this feature is designed to spotlight promotions and events from local businesses directly within search results. Launched into testing on January 22, 2024, by Nicola Agius, this addition is seen as a boon for local businesses looking to increase visibility and drive conversions.

Empowering Local Businesses

At its core, “Nearby Events and Deals” is a local search box that showcases Google Business Profile (GBP) posts in a visually engaging format. Visible exclusively on mobile devices during local searches, it presents users with four tiles, each highlighting a different local deal or event, complete with promotional photos, company names, and review ratings.

This feature is a golden opportunity for local businesses to amplify their promotional efforts. By actively posting and optimizing content on their Google My Business (GMB) profile, businesses can enhance their chances of appearing in these coveted slots, potentially driving higher foot traffic and conversions.

How It Works

The functionality of this feature is straightforward yet effective. Users are presented with a selection of four tiles, offering a snapshot of nearby deals and events. Tapping on a tile expands it to a full-screen view, providing detailed information about the offer, including the business name, its location on a map, an image of the promotion, and a descriptive text.

Interestingly, this feature is distinct from Google Maps, as it has not been integrated into the map service yet. Its placement on the search engine results page (SERP) is also worth noting. Positioned beneath the local pack, organic results, and sections like “People also ask” and “People also search for,” it ensures users receive a variety of informative content during their search journey.

Limited Visibility and Competition

One of the notable aspects of the “Nearby Events and Deals” feature is its exclusivity in visibility. With only four tiles available and no current option to “show more,” competition for these spots is expected to be high. This limitation underscores the importance of businesses regularly updating and optimizing their GMB profiles to stand out in local searches.

Conclusion

Google’s introduction of “Nearby Events and Deals” marks another step towards enriching the local search ecosystem. By providing a dedicated space for businesses to feature promotions and events, Google is not only enhancing the search experience for users but also offering local businesses a valuable tool to increase visibility and attract customers. As this feature undergoes testing, it will be interesting to see how it evolves and the impact it will have on local search marketing strategies.