If you run a local retail store, chances are you spend a lot of time thinking about your website, social media, and in-store experience. But one visibility channel that many retailers overlook, and it’s often the first place customers check when deciding where to shop, is map applications.
Google Maps. Apple Maps. Bing Maps. Waze.
These platforms aren’t just navigation tools anymore. They’re discovery engines. And if your retail business isn’t properly listed and optimized on all of them, you’re missing out on ready-to-buy customers who are searching in real time.
In today’s retail tip, we’re walking through why map optimization matters, what areas to update, and how small weekly habits can dramatically improve your local visibility.
Why Map Listings Are Essential for Retailers
Here’s the truth: local shoppers rely on maps more than ever before.
- 80% of U.S. consumers use a map app each week to find local businesses.
Source: Statista – Mobile Map Usage: (https://www.statista.com/statistics/918592/us-map-app-usage-frequency/) - 51% of consumers specifically rely on Google Maps to research and choose local stores.
Source: Zippia – Google Maps Usage Stats (https://www.zippia.com/advice/google-maps-usage-statistics/)
These numbers tell the story: if your store isn’t visible on map platforms or if the information is incomplete, you’re not even in the consideration set for half of your potential customers.
Customers search by need, not brand. And the map apps show them those options instantly. That means you need to be findable, accurate, and compelling.
Start With the Big Four Map Listings
Most retailers set up Google Business Profiles and stop there. But today’s shoppers move across multiple devices and default apps. To be competitive, make sure your business is listed on all four:
- Google Maps
(via Google Business Profile) - Apple Maps
(via Apple Business Register) - Bing Places
(Microsoft’s map + search integration) - Waze
(especially important for high-traffic retail areas)
Each platform lets you validate your business, update details, add attributes, upload photos, and, most importantly, maintain control over what customers see.
If any platform is missing or outdated, the customer journey becomes harder. The easier you make it for people to choose you, the more likely they are to walk through your door.
Optimize the Details Customers Care About
Map platforms aren’t static listings; they’re dynamic profiles that influence customer decisions. While business name, phone number, and hours are basics, don’t stop there.
Modern shoppers care deeply about:
- Woman-owned
- Veteran-owned
- Black-owned
- LGBTQ+-owned
These attributes influence consumer decisions more than many retailers realize. They build trust, relatability, and community connection.
Accessibility Features
Customers actively search for:
- Parking availability
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances
- Elevators
- Service animal policies
If your business is accessible, showcase it. These details help customers choose faster and choose confidently.
Photos, Products, & Posts
Keeping your map profiles updated with:
- New product photos
- Seasonal items
- Holiday hours
- Weekly posts
This helps reinforce that your store is active, reliable, and worth visiting.
Tip: You can repurpose the same content you post on Facebook or Instagram. There’s no need to create something new; keep your maps active.
Stay Consistent with Weekly Map Updates
Map platforms reward active businesses. If you only update once a year (or haven’t updated since you opened), you’re missing out on free reach.
Try this simple weekly habit:
- Pick one product, service, or event
- Upload a photo/update to Google Business
- Ensure your hours and info are still accurate
This tells platforms your business is alive, relevant, and trustworthy.
Over time, your rankings improve—and so does foot traffic.
Final Takeaway: Make Sure You’re Being Found
Customers want to support local retailers, but they have to find you first. Spending 30 minutes this week updating your map listings could be one of the highest-ROI marketing tasks you complete all month.
