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Google’s Local Pack vs Local Finder: What’s the Difference?

February 19, 2024

Local SEO is a crucial aspect of digital marketing for businesses that target local customers. It involves optimizing a website and online presence to rank higher in local search results, making it easier for potential customers in the area to find and engage with the business.

Google’s Tools for Local Search

Google Local Pack

 

Local Pack

The Local Pack is a feature that appears at the top of search engine results pages (SERPs) when a user makes a search query with local intent. It typically displays three local businesses that are relevant to the search query, along with a map showing their locations. The Local Pack includes essential information such as the business’s address, opening hours, average star rating, and a click-to-call option for mobile users.

Google Local Finder

Local Finder

The Local Finder is an expanded list of local businesses that users can access by clicking on a business in the Local Pack or by clicking on a button that says “more businesses,” “more locations,” or “more places” below the map. It provides a comprehensive list of local businesses along with additional information about each business. This includes links to their website, driving directions, and reviews.

Local Finder vs. Local Pack

The Local Finder and the Local Pack are two distinct interfaces that provide users with information about local businesses. Here are the key differences between them:

  • The Local Finder’s extended list vs. the Local Pack’s limited display: The Local Pack typically shows three local businesses in a more condensed format, while the Local Finder offers a longer list of local businesses.
  • Transition from the Local Pack to the Local Finder: When users click on a business in the Local Pack, they are taken to the Local Finder interface, where they can access a more comprehensive list of local businesses.
  • Information and user experience: The Local Pack provides basic information about local businesses, such as their name, address, phone number, and reviews. On the other hand, the Local Finder offers more detailed information, including links to websites, driving directions, and reviews.

Google Maps and Its Connection to Local Search

Google Maps serves as a valuable tool for journey planning and local service discovery. When users search for local businesses or services, this feature provides them with relevant results based on their location. It displays a map with markers indicating the locations of local businesses. 

Users can view important information about each business, such as its name, address, phone number, and reviews. Google Maps also offers directions to guide users to their desired destinations.

Comparing Google Maps and Local Finder

While Google Maps and Local Finder are both tools for local search, there are some differences between them:

  • Scope of information: Google Maps provides basic information about local businesses, including their name, address, and phone number. On the other hand, Local Finder offers more detailed information, such as website links, driving directions, and reviews.
  • Interface: Google Maps displays search results on a map interface, making it easy for users to visualize the locations of local businesses. Local Finder, on the other hand, presents search results in a list format.

Google Maps, Local Pack, and Local Finder Comparison Table

The Interplay Between Local Pack, Local Finder, and Google Maps

When it comes to local search on Google, there are three main platforms that businesses need to understand: Local Pack, Local Finder, and Google Maps. Each platform serves a distinct purpose and offers unique functionalities. By leveraging these platforms effectively, businesses can maximize their local visibility and reach their target audience more effectively. It is also crucial to track and report website visits from each source to evaluate the effectiveness of local SEO strategies.

Local Pack

The Local Pack, also known as the Google 3-Pack, is a group of three local business listings that appear on the search engine results page (SERP) for both desktop and mobile users. It is triggered when users search locally for a specific service or business. 

It includes a map showing the location of each business, along with important information such as the name, address, and phone number (NAP), links to their website, a directions button, and reviews. Ranking in the Local Pack has a high return on investment (ROI), with businesses in the Local Pack receiving 126 percent more traffic and 93 percent more actions than businesses ranked 4-10.

Local Finder

Clicking on a business in the Local Pack takes users to the Local Finder, where they can see a list of local businesses with additional information. The Local Finder provides users with a more comprehensive view of local businesses, including website links, driving directions, and reviews. This expanded list allows users to explore more options and make informed decisions.

Google Maps

Google Maps is an integral component of local search, acting as both a discovery and engagement platform for businesses. When users search for services or businesses, Google Maps offers a detailed and interactive experience, displaying businesses on a navigable map alongside crucial information such as business hours, contact details, and customer reviews. 

It’s not just a tool for directions; it’s a powerful medium for businesses to showcase their presence, attract customers, and enhance local SEO. The visibility on Google Maps can significantly influence a customer’s decision-making process, as the platform provides a user-friendly interface that helps potential customers easily find, evaluate, and visit local businesses. 

Maximizing Local Visibility

Understanding the differences between Google’s Local Pack and Local Finder is crucial for businesses looking to enhance their local search presence. The Local Pack showcases three local business listings with essential information like NAP details, website links, directions, and reviews. 

On the other hand, the Local Finder provides a more comprehensive list of local businesses, accessed by clicking on a local pack result or a specific button. Additionally, providing accurate information and encouraging customer reviews on Google Maps are optimizations you must do. Leveraging these tools effectively can significantly boost a business’s online visibility and attract more local customers. 

Even after a decade as a content and copywriter, Marijim continues to refine her skills and expand her expertise. Passionate about digital marketing, she excels in on-page SEO and has a proven track record of enhancing website content to drive traffic and boost domain authority.