Google has updated Maps to include product-specific search capabilities, just in time for the holiday shopping season.
This feature allows consumers to search for specific items and find nearby stores with available inventory.
Key Features
The update lets you search for products directly within Google Maps and find real-time inventory availability at nearby stores.
Shoppers can find a wide range of items and have immediate access to local pickup options.
In an announcement, Google states:
“Need a last-minute gift? Now, you can search in Google Maps for items like pickleball rackets, board games, ice cream makers and more to find nearby stores that have them in stock so you can pick up what you need, stat. No empty stockings here!”
Implementation Guide For Retailers
Retailers should focus on three key components to succeed with Google Maps’ product search feature.
1. Structured Data Markup
Local inventory visibility depends on using Schema.org markup correctly.
The example below shows what’s for products to be visible on Google Maps: