What is Local Business Schema?

Local Business Schema

What is Local Business Schema?

LocalBusiness Schema, also known as Schema.org LocalBusiness markup, is a type of structured data used on web pages that provides detailed and concise information about a business to search engines such as Google. This information can include the address, working hours, price range, menu, contact information, and more.

Local Business structured data helps pages appear in Local Search results and on Google Maps.

Here’s an example of basic Local Business structured data that a bookstore can use:

<script type="application/ld+json">
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "BookStore",
  "name": "The Owl's Book Nest",
  "address": {
    "@type": "PostalAddress",
    "streetAddress": "123 Feather Lane",
    "addressLocality": "Owltown",
    "addressRegion": "Whispering Woods",
    "postalCode": "12345",
    "addressCountry": "US"
  },
  "telephone": "+1234567890",
  "openingHours": "Mo-Sa 10:00-18:00",
  "url": "https://www.owlsbookneststore.com"
}
</script>

Why is Local Business Schema Important?

Enhanced Visibility in Search Results

Implementing Local Business Schema markup enhances your visibility in search results. When users search for local businesses, the structured data helps search engines display relevant information prominently in rich snippets, making your business stand out.

Improved Click-Through Rates

Rich snippets with detailed business information, such as operating hours, address, and contact details, make search results more informative. This can improve click-through rates as users are more likely to visit a website that provides the information they seek directly in the search results.

Better Local SEO

LocalBusiness Schema is a crucial part of local SEO. It helps search engines understand your business's location and services, which can improve your ranking in local search results and make it easier for potential customers to find you.

How to Implement Local Business Schema?

Implementing Local Business Schema on your website involves adding structured data markup in JSON-LD format. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Identify Your Business Type Visit Schema.org to find the specific type of business you operate, such as Restaurant, BookStore, or AutoRepair.
Generate the JSON-LD Code Use a schema markup generator tool to create the JSON-LD code for your business. Input details like your business name, address, phone number, and operating hours.
Add the JSON-LD Code to Your Website Insert the generated JSON-LD code into the HTML of your website, preferably within the <head> section or at the end of the <body> section.
Validate Your Markup Use Google's Rich Results Test to ensure your structured data is correctly implemented and free of errors.

Example

Here’s an extended example for a restaurant:

<script type="application/ld+json">
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Restaurant",
  "name": "The Gourmet Bistro",
  "image": "https://www.example.com/photos/1x1/photo.jpg",
  "address": {
    "@type": "PostalAddress",
    "streetAddress": "123 Fancy Avenue",
    "addressLocality": "Foodtown",
    "addressRegion": "Tasteland",
    "postalCode": "54321",
    "addressCountry": "US"
  },
  "telephone": "+1234567890",
  "servesCuisine": "French",
  "menu": "https://www.example.com/menu",
  "priceRange": "$$$",
  "openingHours": "Mo-Su 12:00-22:00",
  "url": "https://www.thegourmetbistro.com"
}
</script>

FAQs

What types of businesses can use LocalBusiness Schema?

Any local business can use LocalBusiness Schema, including restaurants, bookstores, auto repair shops, hotels, and more. Visit Schema.org for a full list of supported business types.

How often should I update my Local Business Schema?

Update your Local Business Schema whenever there are changes to your business information, such as new operating hours, address, or contact details. Keeping the information current ensures accuracy in search results.

Can Local Business Schema improve my Google My Business listing?

While Local Business Schema itself does not directly affect your Google My Business listing, the enhanced visibility and improved local SEO from implementing structured data can complement and support your overall local search strategy.

By implementing Local Business Schema, you can significantly improve your website's visibility in search results, drive more traffic, and attract more local customers.

Local Business Schema