Google is set to automatically update Google My Business listings that include distance-based service areas.
The remaining distance-based service areas will be removed. In the future, service-area businesses currently using a distance-based model will be automatically converted to the nearest named areas.
Managers of affected Google My Business listings will have the chance to review these updates after logging into their accounts.
If your listing is affected, you will see an “Updates from Google” notification at the top of the page the next time you log in.
From there, you’ll have the option to either accept the changes made by Google or provide a new service area based on city, ZIP code, or other specific areas.
This is not an abrupt shift, as Google has been gradually phasing out distance-based service areas since last year.
Google is making these adjustments to better accommodate businesses that service areas beyond a set distance from their physical location. This change is also beneficial for businesses that do not serve customers at their physical location.
Businesses were encouraged to make these changes themselves and were given ample time to do so. Now, Google is implementing the changes for any listings still using distance-based service areas.
This update should not affect how listings appear in search results. However, it is advisable to review Google’s changes to ensure your listing remains visible in the areas where you serve customers.
More Resources
- How to Completely Optimize Your Google My Business Listing
- Google My Business Listings Getting Suspended After Adding Short Names
