UK Google Local now here

Here at last! Google Local UK has been launched, providing businesses throughout the country the opportunity to be tracked down online.

The local information and mapping services accessed via http://local.google.co.uk/ supplies a new shop window for companies to reach the ever growing number of people who are regularly using the web as a primary source of local information.

So head along to Google Local UK today and check out your exposure. Results are drawn from Google’s web index and local business data from Yell.com. Unlike traditional directory style listings, Google Local UK enables searchers to find local information, business details, maps and directions without having to select from pre-determined categories. Searching can be conducted on a place or postcode basis.

If you wanted to find a butcher’s shop in Nairn, for example, you would end with these results. Each result includes a phone number, street address etc. plus links to related web pages. So even if you don’t have a company web site, it’s still important to get your business listed online in order to pick up some extra trade via the net. A good way to start is the HIE business directory.

Another advantage of Google Local UK is that it allows Google AdWords advertisers to reach customers searching for businesses, products and services in their area using locally targeted advertisements.

Google Local UK results can also be accessed from the main Google UK search engine page when specific geographical keywords are entered. Local results are presented at the top of search result page and marked by a small compass icon.

When users are away from their desktop, Google Local UK can be accessed by mobile phone. Google SMS enables users to query the search engine by text to the shortcode 64664 (6GOOG) and receive Google results. Compatible UK mobile phone services include 3, O2, Orange, T-Mobile, Virgin and Vodafone.

It would be nice to think that the past few months of wheedling on this site about a UK version of Google Local may have played a very small part in its introduction.