Google has updated its Google Business Profiles guidelines with specific rules for service-area businesses, particularly those associated with age-restricted products or services.
Key Points
- Service-Area Businesses: These businesses serve customers at their locations and should have one profile for the central office or location with a designated service area.
- Prohibited Listings: Businesses associated with age-restricted products or services (e.g., alcohol, cannabis, weapons) are not permitted as service-area businesses without a storefront.
- Virtual Offices: Service-area businesses cannot list a "virtual" office unless it is staffed during business hours.
- Hybrid Service-Area Businesses: Businesses like auto repair shops that have a garage and offer roadside service can show their storefront address and designate a service area. The business location must be staffed and able to receive customers during stated hours.
- Address Display: Google determines how best to display your business address based on the provided business information and other sources.
These guidelines ensure that service-area businesses are accurately represented and accessible to customers.
