Google boosts listings information with local business centre

LONDON - In the halo of Google's announcement this week to launch voice and instant messaging communications, the search giant has also unveiled a service that lets local businesses manage their listings in Google Local.

Google Local Business Centre UK lets SMEs feed information into Google's Local UK directory, which delivers targeted search results to customers in specific regions or neighbourhoods.

The Local Business Centre service is independent from Google's AdWords -- the company's search advertising programme. Business wanting to amend their details can contact Google via the and will then be sent a mailer with a PIN, so they can confirm the entry is correct. Changes made to information on the new service will not be reflected in main search listings.

Google Local displays information from Yell.com results. This is the latest enhancement to Google's local service, after the integration of Google Maps. Google Local also offers reviews of businesses and provides information, such as opening times, types of payment accepted and even whether or not stores offer Wi-Fi internet access.

It follows this week's announcement that Google is launching an instant messaging service to its email users that also allows them to talk to each other directly.

If you have an opinion on this or any other issue raised on Brand Republic, join the debate in the .

Topics

Market Reports

Get unprecedented new-business intelligence with access to ±±¾©Èü³µpk10’s new Advertising Intelligence Market Reports.

Find out more

Enjoying ±±¾©Èü³µpk10’s content?

 Get unlimited access to ±±¾©Èü³µpk10’s premium content for your whole company with a corporate licence.

Upgrade access

Looking for a new job?

Get the latest creative jobs in advertising, media, marketing and digital delivered directly to your inbox each day.

Create an alert now

Partner content