A Google Business Profile (GBP) is a free business listing provided by Google that allows your business to appear in local search results and on Google Maps.
It is designed specifically for local businesses that:
- Serve customers in a defined area (for example, a landscaper or electrician), or
- Have a physical location that customers can visit (such as a shop, café, or office)
When someone searches for a service near them, Google uses Business Profiles to decide which businesses to show — particularly in the map results at the top of the page.
Who Can Use a Google Business Profile?
A Google Business Profile is suitable for most local service and location-based businesses, including:
- Trades (landscapers, builders, plumbers, electricians)
- Restaurants and cafés
- Hair salons and barbers
- Gyms and fitness studios
- Professional services with offices
For example, a landscaper who serves Nottingham can have a Google Business Profile even if they don't have a shopfront, while a local restaurant would use their physical address so customers can visit them.
What Does a Google Business Profile Show?
A Google Business Profile allows you to display key information about your business directly in Google search results, including:
- Business name
- Opening hours
- Phone number
- Website link
- Service areas or address
- Photos of your work or premises
- Customer reviews
- Business updates and posts
This information helps potential customers quickly decide whether to contact your business, visit your website, or request directions.
Below is an example of how a Google Business Profile appears in search results.
![Example of a Google Business Profile in search results showing NLS Landscaping [border]](/Images/Help-Centre/what-is-a-google-business-profile/what-a-gbp-looks-like-NLS-example.png)
Why Is a Google Business Profile Important?
For local businesses, a Google Business Profile is one of the most important online assets you can have. It helps:
- Your business appear in local searches
- Customers find and contact you more easily
- Build trust through reviews and photos
- Support your website's local SEO performance
Even businesses with strong websites often rely on their Google Business Profile to generate enquiries, calls, and direction requests.
