New Google Local Search Display

You may or may not have noticed that Google has changed up how its displays local search results. In early August 2015, Google created a new format that we foresee having major impact on local businesses. 

Now don’t freak out, these changes wont affect your ranking on Google, but rather the way local business information is displayed on search results.

Previously Google displayed typically around 7  local businesses depending on location and search terms. The new update is only showing 3 results. There is the option to view more results. It is now even more important to be among the top 3 in organic search results.

Another large change Google implemented is the increase of ads showing above the fold on mobile results. You will also not see very many photos, or address, there is a large map and desktop and mobile results are now in the same format.

Here is a clear distinction between the two from Search Engine Land.