Google Testing Enhanced Local Listings

[CHR]

Google New Local Ad Category Invades 7-Pack

It doesn’t in any way affect a local business ranking in the so-called “7 pack” or on the subsequent Google Maps page. However Google is introducing a new local business ad (”enhanced listings“) that allows a business to stand out with an “enhanced” presence on the map or in the map-related listings on the SERP. It permits local businesses to call attention to something it wants to highlight to customers and/or prospects: a menu, a coupon, a video, for example.
It just went live in two test cities: San Jose CA and Houston Texas. Here’s how Google describes it and its value to local business owners:

When you add an enhancement to your listing, you can highlight what you most want your customers to see.
For example, you can add a coupon for new customers, highlight a video overview of your store, or even link to your menu. You decide what what’s most important about your business and make sure it stands out.
Signing up and selecting your enhancement takes less than 5 minutes. All you need is a verified business listing and a valid credit card — simply visit your LBC Dashboard and look for the link to enhance your listing.
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The cost is $25 per month and the business can choose from one of seven types of enhancements, drawn from content in the Local Business Center. The available categories of enhancements include the following:

• photos
• videos
• website
• coupons
• directions
• menu
• reservations

During the course of the month enhancements can be changed or rotated without paying again. The $25 is a flat recurring monthly fee independent of how many changes are made. And because pictures do a better job of explaining this, here are some screens:

Follow the top link to read the entire article.

Like the article says, it's a test in just 2 cities. If you're in San Jose or Houston, let us know if it's available to you... and if you get responses.

Not sure which I'd choose to link to once the option becomes available here. Video? Coupons? Photos? Depends on the target market. Since there's already a website link, it seems like a waste, but they may take away the direct links and start sending visitors to Place Pages.

Another interesting development in the ever-changing Local scene.