Does google local use opening times to rank?

[mugatea]

Just noticed that businesses that are 'open' tend to be at the top in the evenings (when I check) compared to others that are 'closed'. Is this a ranking factor?

Jamie

 

[Danny Harvey]

Hi Jamie,

Google will try to show the most relevant results to the user depending on what the search term was. So preference will be given to businesses that are 'open' to be shown to the searcher ahead of the ones that are closed - again this depends on the search term used.

Ranking high. on the other hand doesn't always equate to higher search traffic, click-through's or sales. This is mostly down to on-page content and again, if it's relevant to what the user is searching for.

Having as much info as possible (including opening times) on-site and on your Google My Business profile that could help people find your business is always recommended.

I have some links to some great resources that help you rock local SEO, but this forum won't allow me to post them as I've not posted 30 times... helpful!

What's the best way for me to get these to you?

 

[aflat9]

Yep, it can be down to opening hours, as Danny said - it's about relevance. Make sure you're listed on all of the local directories too - Yelp, 192, Yell etc.. you will probably be hounded with phone calls asking you to list as a premium member (don't do it, it's pointless). But it gives you a helping hand with local rankings!

 

[websensejim]

Opening times are not a ranking factor as such; it's more likely, as Danny pointed out that Google just tries to serve up the best results depending on the individual query and from where the searcher is located. Google is getting smarter all the time and always looking to introduce new signals to improve their results. For example, a recent Google patent suggests they may be planning to use travel time as a local ranking factor (i.e the further someone is prepared to travel to visit/use a service/product/shop/business, the higher that business is rated, vote of confidence, etc). Clever huh? You can find the patent if you search for "Determining the quality of locations based on travel time investment".

 

[StevePoster]

Is this a ranking factor?

Not at all. Its the user engagement that affects most in placing your local business in rankings.