Just announced yesterday was the partnership between Sensis Yellow Pages Online and Google Maps starting from the first quarter of next year. This would have definitely come as a shock to other major online media networks in Australia. But this decision marks the next step to deliver better quality information to the online Australian user – and it’s about time!
And it’s refreshing to finally see at least one of the online media players in oz keeping their ego in check. The Sydney Morning Herald states it as Sensis admitting defeat to Google, since Whereis.com.au (part of Sensis) directly competes with Google Maps in Australia. Maybe to a certain extent, but the deal will drive more relevant traffic to Yellow Online, benefiting the businesses listed on the site. This contributes to the brand of Yellow Pages, and put more money in Sensis’ pocket. That’s surely a win for them.
A ‘truly local’ business listing
The move made by Sensis may not be so crash hot for competitor True Local though, who also runs business listings through Google Maps. True Local (owned by News Digital Media) may have the advantage of time, with some of its listings already rich with reviews and user content on Google Maps. One example is its listing for Tetsuya’s Restaurant, which turns up as the most relevant listing when you search for ‘restaurant in Sydney’:
But with a more extensive list of businesses in its ammunition, Yellow Pages Online will cover the bases where True Local doesn’t. While it’s still early days, it won’t be hard for Sensis to dominate space on Google Maps if they get the strategy right. Suit up, True Local; play time is over!
Implications for local companies, online business directories, & SEO firms
Greater competition in the online space for listing directories is good news for local businesses. It means an extra outlet of exposure for companies listed on Yellow Online. It will also mean better product offerings and innovation from other online commercial directories.
This also has implications on the SEO front. Optimising local business listings for Google Maps will now require more effort, more expertise, and more opportunities for respectable SEO firms.
Happy Melbourne Cup day!
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