As people adapt to their new lifestyles, consumer behavior is changing. Retailers are doing everything they can to keep up. People spend more time online than ever and turn to Google to research, plan and shop online.

We are seeing changes in consumer shopping behavior as a result COVID-19. These changes will likely continue into the holidays. E-commerce is now the main door to the store, as customers plan their visits to physical shops more carefully. Consumers will look for what is important, such as deals and discounts. Retailers can assist by meeting customers where they are most at ease shopping.

Online tools are a great way for retailers to connect with customers as they plan their next purchases. We have made some improvements to our products to make it even more simple.

Help shoppers plan their visits to your stores

To ensure safety and convenience, customers should verify hours and confirm inventory before visiting a store. They also need to check for curbside pickup options. A recent survey found that 67% of holiday shoppers will verify online that the item is in stock prior to going into a store to purchase it.

Google Maps is a great tool for potential shoppers to find and connect with them as they plan their visits. You can use Local campaigns to connect with customers who are searching for your business on Google Maps, Search and YouTube. Local campaigns are being used by businesses to update customers on their open status, highlight promotions and offer health and safety updates. You can optimize Local campaigns to increase store visits indicators such as clicks on “directions”, or “calls” today. This will allow more businesses access Local campaigns.

Location extensions can also help people find your stores by showing your ads with your address, a map to your location, or the distance to your business. Location extensions help people locate your stores by showing ads that include your address, a map of your location or the distance from your business. Now it’s easier for major retailers and chains to set up location extensions by selecting their store locations from a curated list from Google. Major retailers and chains can now set up location extensions by selecting their store locations using a curated Google list. You can quickly select the chain that you wish to promote and create a location extension in just a few mouse clicks. We will review the chain to ensure it is a good match with your business. Later, you can use location groups to filter for specific locations within that chain. You can filter by specific locations in the chain using location groups later. Google’s curated locations lists let you use the same information as Google Maps.

Retail store owners have many responsibilities during these difficult times. However, it is important to update your Google My Business profile if your store hours change or you modify your operating procedures.

Highlight your promotions

Deal-seeking behavior has increased as economic worries continue. Online and in-store purchases are expected to be discounted. Even 58 percent of holiday shoppers won’t buy gift items until they’re on sale.

We’re doing more this year to help holiday bargain-seekers find you. Google.com/shopping will offer expanded sales filters for shoppers in the United States who are looking for Black Friday or other deals. These sales filters will be easier to use and more efficient thanks to promotions. They can increase conversion rates by on average 28 percent. Flash sales and last-minute discounts will be possible with fast promotion approvals for eligible offers. You can also easily edit your live promotions (US only).