Why cafés need a Google profile

When someone searches for a cafe near them, Google often shows a map with a short list of places before any websites. Those listings come from Google Business Profiles. If your cafe does not have one, or it is out of date, you may be missing people who are already looking for coffee nearby.

What it is

A Google Business Profile is a free listing for your business that can appear in Google Search and Google Maps. It can show your name, address, opening hours, phone number, website, photos, a link to your menu, and reviews from customers.

Why it matters for a cafe

• People check hours before they leave. Wrong hours on Google means people turn up to a closed door, or do not come at all.
• Directions in one tap. Your listing links straight to directions in Maps.
• Photos sell coffee. Good photos of your food, drinks and space help people choose.
• Reviews in one place. You can read and reply to reviews from your listing.

How to set one up

Go to Google Business Profile (business.google.com) and sign in with a Google account. Search for your cafe: if a listing already exists, you can claim it. Add your details, then verify that you own the business. Google offers different ways to verify, depending on the business, so follow the steps it shows you.

Keep it useful

• Set special hours for public holidays and closures.
• Add a link to your menu on your own website.
• Upload new photos every few months.
• Reply to reviews politely, good and bad.
• Make sure your name, address and phone number match your website exactly.

Your website and your profile work together

Your profile gets you seen. Your website answers the next questions: the full menu, what makes you different, and how to order or book. Link them to each other, and keep the details the same in both places.