In a commendable move, Google has introduced new features aimed at elevating the visibility of small businesses and enhancing the overall shopping experience. With these changes, detailed by Barry Schwartz on November 1, 2023, Google takes a significant step towards supporting local commerce and providing consumers with comprehensive information.
One of the standout features is the "small business" attribute. Businesses can now edit their Google Business Profile or Merchant Center details to identify as a “small business.” Consequently, Google will showcase a small business icon and label in local and shopping search results. This small, yet impactful, visual cue can influence consumer choices, directing them towards supporting local businesses.
If you’re a small business owner, don’t miss this opportunity. By selecting “Is a small business” in your Google Business Profile, you make your enterprise more visible and appealing to a segment of consumers who consciously choose to support local entrepreneurs.
But Google's initiative goes beyond just labels. The tech giant also aims to provide shoppers with extensive information. This includes “current deals, shipping and return policies, customer service information, and ratings and reviews.” Such details are expected to appear in the knowledge panels for some merchants in select regions, offering a more transparent and informed shopping experience.
Another exciting development is the rollout of Product Studio to all Google Merchant Center Next users in the U.S. This feature, which utilizes AI-powered scene generation, allows businesses to creatively place products in any imaginative scene. This cutting-edge tool could revolutionize how products are showcased online, providing businesses with an innovative way to engage potential customers.
For small businesses, these enhancements are more than just new features on a platform. They represent a significant opportunity for increased visibility and customer engagement. By leveraging these tools, small businesses can stand out in a crowded online marketplace.
If you’re a business owner, make sure to capitalize on these new offerings. And if you’re a marketing professional with small business clients, guide them through these updates to maximize their benefits.
Google’s latest updates reaffirm its commitment to supporting small businesses and improving the shopping experience. As consumers increasingly look online for shopping options, these changes could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of e-commerce, making it more inclusive and informative.