Food industry experts have started encouraging businesses to improve location data management systems as a means of capitalizing on the increasing number of consumers who rely on their mobile phones for restaurant searches.
A strong location data management plan is necessary to ensure that consumers searching for the best restaurants will be directed to a certain food branch. A detailed Google My Business listing is required to get customers on the restaurant door whether the customer lives far or nearby, analysts said.
The latest data from a Google study revealed that 90 percent of food consumers don't have specific choices when it comes to food brands or restaurants. Instead, consumers, these days make use of "Near Me" and "Locate" options to find suitable branches.
Industry analysts stressed the importance of having a Google My Business listing with complete directions. For food chains, experts have recommended continuous location data management so changes to branches or opening and closing times will be updated appropriately.
Food experts also highly recommended that restaurants and food brands build online visibility through some of the internet's most pivotal networks. These include Yelp, Facebook, Apple Maps, and TripAdvisor. Consistency in the information provided in these networks is the key to getting more customers.
Last month, Google My Business revamped its guidelines for business owners who are seeking to strengthen their online presence even if they operate seasonally. The guidelines noted that seasonal businesses should mark their listings "temporarily closed" during the off-season.
Google has been improving its processes to help food business owners have an upper-hand in online presence. Over the last years, the U.S. search engine giant has been shifting towards algorithms that center on relevance and authority.
For analysts, Google's move is one way for food businesses to build trust with their target customers. While the new guidelines are stricter and more authority-inclined, these are expected to push restaurants to provide only quality service and products.
Meanwhile, some analysts pointed out that Google is monetizing its Maps features to turn it into a cash machine as more food businesses turn to the search engine behemoth for sponsorship. Maps are closely linked to Google My Business listings.
While some industry experts said Google will make the most money from ads and sponsorships, others said the strategy could benefit the food business owner as well. Even small businesses can take advantage of ads packages from the provider that could in turn spur increased customer interest on a food chain or restaurant.
