Local Memo: ChatGPT Adds Shopping, Yelp’s AI Call Feature, Bots Create Fake Engagement
3 Ways to Increase Local Sales with Unbranded Search
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Today’s consumers rarely search by brand—they search by need. When shoppers type phrases like “car wash near me” or “Thai food open now,” they’re ready to buy. Unfortunately, many multi-location brands overlook this huge revenue opportunity, focusing instead on broad national campaigns and missing out on the 63% of searches that are unbranded.
National campaigns might boost brand recognition, but optimizing for unbranded search will get you sales. Ready to capture this untapped revenue? Here are three proven ways to increase local sales using unbranded search:
1. Enable Every Relevant Feature (Especially Mobile Ordering)
Completing every available field on your Google Business Profiles, Yelp, and Apple Maps listings, such as hours, contact information, and amenities—that’s table stakes. Enabling features like mobile ordering, reservations, or appointment scheduling—now that’s true optimization.
These features will directly increase conversions. Why? Because they can meet immediate consumer needs at the moment they’re searching. Shoppers prioritize convenience, and if they can order or schedule right then and there, they’re far less likely to end up shopping somewhere else.
2. Add Engaging Photo Content
Visual appeal matters. Businesses with rich, engaging photo content perform significantly better in local searches. High-quality images showcasing products, services, or location atmosphere help customers quickly validate their choices, driving more clicks and visits. Update regularly with photos from customer experiences, behind-the-scenes insights, or featured promotions to enhance authenticity and capture consumer interest.
User generated content is nice, but sometimes it’s not so nice to look at, and adding your own well-composed photos is putting your best foot forward, especially since we know Google and other platforms will feature them prominently.
3. Empower Local Managers to Share About Your Brand on Social Media
National-level social campaigns can boost overall awareness, but local engagement is key to converting searches into sales. Give your local managers the tools and freedom to authentically share updates, promotions, and community interactions on social media. Localized, genuine content improves visibility in search results and resonates deeply with community-driven consumers. A consumer might be aware of your chain, but if they know the location down the street is clean and friendly there’s a better chance they’ll stop by.
By focusing on these three actionable strategies, your brand can effectively compete for high-intent local searches, significantly boosting sales and revenue. It’s time to stop leaving money on the table and start winning with unbranded search.
Ready to Turn Unbranded Search into a Bottom Line Boost?
SOCi’s AI-powered platform helps multi-location brands optimize for unbranded traffic at scale—across search, listings, and local pages. Let us help you get found, get chosen, and grow locally.
