Google Local Carousel Entry Tips

Digital Marketing Works has released a study that reveals what it takes for a business to be included in the local carousel (a Google feature which was initialy unveiled back in mid-summer 2013). 

The study found that carousel rank correlates highly with Google review ratings and the quantity of those ratings/reviews. The agency also found that distance and travel time were also ranking variables but noted that it believes third-party reviews, including those from Yelp, do not appear to factor in the Carousel rankings. 

While the study focused exclusively on reviews and set adide other factor that inform Google search results (like semantic, visual, personal and price factors) it does create a rather clear picture of what it takes to earn that coveted digital designation. 

DMW analyzed 4,500 search results in the hotel category in 47 U.S. cities.