When I first started my business, I realized how much weight Google reviews carry in getting noticed online. But honestly, not every new business has dozens of reviews to flaunt right away. I wondered, is it even possible to show up in Google’s Local Pack without reviews?
The good news is, it absolutely is. Eventually, I figured out that with the right adjustments, you can get your business in front of local customers even if you have zero reviews, through your Google Business Profile, local SEO, and online presence.
In this guide, I will walk you through exactly how to do it in 2025-26.
What is Google’s Local Pack? Can you Rank in the Local Pack Without Reviews?
As you know, ‘Google’s Local Pack’, which is the part of Google’s search engine results, refers to the boxed map section that appears at the top of Google search results when someone searches for a local business or service. For example, if someone searches ‘coffee shop near me’, Google often shows three local businesses in a map along with a listings box. That’s the Local Pack of Google.
Now, traditionally, reviews (especially Google reviews) are a significant factor in Local Pack rankings, because Google uses them as a signal of credibility and popularity. In 2025-26, businesses may still show up in the Local Pack, even with no reviews or only a couple, if they have properly optimized other factors for their online presence.
In practice, this means:
- You can gain visibility on Google Maps and the Local Pack results even if you’re not counting on customer reviews.
- It means putting emphasis on strategies like local SEO, on-page optimization, Google business profile optimization, citations, and relevance signals.
- This means if you’re a small/new business, you won’t have to wait until you build up reviews to show up in local searches.
How to Rank in Google’s Local Pack Without Reviews in 2025-26?
A highly effective way to promote your business locally is through local SEO. It helps your products and services reach customers nearby, improving your chances of appearing in local search results. The best part? You do not always need to compete with large companies.
Local SEO improves your online visibility, increases your website traffic, helps you boost sales, and can even help you get more foot traffic to your store. If your business primarily serves local customers, why not invest in local SEO?
Let’s take a look at the different ways in which you can improve your ranking in Google’s Local Pack without reviews to grow your business.
1. Create a Business Profile on Google
The easiest way to appear in local search results is by creating a Google Business Profile (GBP). Google uses GBPs to show businesses in the Local Pack, so without one, you could miss out on potential customers.
With a GBP, you can:
- Share important information about your business with Google
- Update your details anytime
- Add listings for multiple locations or service areas
For example:
Suppose you run Tasty Bakery in Delhi. By creating a Google Business Profile, you can:
- Tell Google your bakery’s address, hours, and contact details
- Update your menu or holiday hours whenever needed
- Add another listing if you also deliver to nearby neighborhoods
This way, when someone searches for “bakery near me,” your business can appear in the Local Pack.
2. Enter all your Business Details and Optimize your GBP
The most important information to consider is your Name, Address, Phone Number, and Business Hours. In addition, Google allows you to include other important information, including your website, menu, services provided, and location. If there is an extra slot for more information, ensure that you fill it.
Tips for your profile:
- Be thorough: Adding more information makes it easier for customers to find you and for Google to show your listing.
- Stay up-to-date: Keep your information current. If your hours change or you move, update your profile so customers don’t get frustrated.
- Use a clear business description with relevant local keywords.
- Add high-quality photos of your store, products, or services to enhance your online presence.
3. Provide Accurate and Up-to-Date Hours of Business
Always keep your business hours up to date so customers know exactly when you are open. Don’t forget to add special holiday hours to avoid confusion.
For example, if your café usually closes at 9 PM but stays open until midnight on New Year’s Eve, update your profile so customers aren’t disappointed.
4. Use local keywords
As you know, keywords are the words people type into Google when searching for a business. Adding the right keywords in your Google Business Profile description helps Google understand what you do and show your business to the right people.
Example: If you own an Italian restaurant, you could write ‘family-friendly Italian restaurant serving pasta and pizza in Delhi.’ This way, when someone searches “Italian restaurant near me,” your profile is more likely to appear.
Pro tip: Don’t stop at GBP – use those keywords on your website as well for even better results.
5. Upload Good Images of Your Business
Photos are often the first impression new customers get of your business. Clear, attractive pictures help people know what to expect and make them more likely to visit or buy.
You can upload photos directly to your Google Business Profile (GBP), such as:
- Your products
- Inside and outside views of your business
- Before-and-after shots
- Menus, food, or drinks
Example: A salon can share before-and-after hairstyle photos, while a café can post pictures of its menu and cozy seating area to attract customers.
6. Respond and Manage Reviews
Reviews are powerful, as they demonstrate to both Google and potential customers that people trust and enjoy your business. More positive reviews mean stronger word of mouth and higher chances of attracting new customers.
- Encourage customers to leave reviews on your Google Business Profile (GBP) by asking after a purchase or service.
Example: A dentist can politely ask patients to share their experience online, helping new visitors feel confident about booking an appointment.
Takeaway
There are no shortcuts to Google’s Local Pack – only strong Local SEO will get you there. Invest in it so your business can earn more visibility, attract the correct customers, grow its revenue, etc. If you are ready to take your Local SEO to the next level, connect with team Straction, and allow us to get your business on the map!
