What is the Google Snack Pack and why is it a must for local SEO?

What would you do if your foot traffic increased tenfold—hire help, expand your hours, or finally take that beach day? For many local businesses, getting found online is the make-or-break factor that drives real-world results. And when it comes to local visibility, nothing beats showing up in Google’s Snack Pack.

If you're not sure what the Snack Pack is—or how to land a spot in it—this guide will show you how to claim one of the most powerful pieces of digital real estate in your area.

What is the Google Snack Pack?

Also known as the local pack, the Google Snack Pack is the boxed section that appears at the top of local search results. It includes a map, business names, review ratings, categories, hours, and contact info—usually for the top three businesses that match the user’s query.

This is the first thing people see when they search for local services, and it sits above the organic results. Think of it as prime shelf space in the grocery store—but for search.

If you’re in the Snack Pack, Google is essentially endorsing you:
“Here are the three best businesses nearby for what you’re looking for.”
And with 80% of searches now focused on finding local services, that endorsement matters more than ever.

Why does the Snack Pack exist?

Google introduced the Snack Pack to provide more relevant local search results—especially for mobile users. It offers a clean, fast-loading interface where users can quickly compare businesses based on location, reviews, and services.

Here’s why it works:
- It’s location-sensitive, showing businesses near the user’s actual area
- It rewards relevance, only including businesses that match search intent
- It keeps users in the Google ecosystem (map clicks, calls, reviews)

That makes it a win for users, a win for Google—and a huge win for your business if you’re in it.

How do you get into the Google Snack Pack?

The good news? It’s not about having the biggest budget—it’s about relevance, consistency, and trust.

To earn a spot in the Snack Pack, focus on these core actions:

1. Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile
Your GBP (formerly known as Google My Business) is your ticket to the pack. Make sure it’s:
- Verified and fully completed
- Consistent with your website and other listings
- Updated with accurate hours, services, and categories
- Filled with real photos and keywords where appropriate

Don’t skip the basics. Something as small as a mismatched phone number can keep you from ranking.

2. Be consistent with NAP details
NAP = Name, Address, Phone Number. These details should be identical everywhere—on your website, social profiles, directory listings, and Google Business Profile.

If your Google listing says “123 Main Street” but your website says “123 Main St,” Google may see that as a mismatch. Consistency builds trust and authority, both with Google and your customers.

3. Target localized keywords
Local SEO isn’t just about being near the searcher—it’s about using the right language, too.

Incorporate city- and neighborhood-based keywords throughout your website and Google profile. Think:
- “breweries in Boise’s North End”
- “plumber in South Tampa”
- “wedding florist near downtown Sacramento”

Include these terms in your homepage copy, location pages, service pages, and blog content to increase your chances of being seen for local intent.

Pro tip: Use Google’s autocomplete to find the most commonly searched local phrases in your niche.

4. Get more Google reviews—and respond to them
Reviews are one of the top factors that influence whether you make it into the pack. Encourage every happy customer to leave a review, and always respond—whether it’s to say thank you or to resolve an issue.

Google favors businesses that interact with their audience. Plus, a high review count and rating can dramatically increase your click-through rate when you appear in search.

5. Create localized content on your website
Don’t stop at your homepage. Build out landing pages that target specific services and locations you serve. Write blog posts about community events, local tips, or region-specific trends that tie into your business.

Localized content builds relevance and gives Google more ways to connect your business to area-specific searches.

Why the Snack Pack matters for small businesses

Getting into the local pack can give your business a serious boost—even over larger, non-local competitors. Here’s how:

• Increased visibility: You show up at the top—before organic listings or even ads.
• More mobile traffic: With one tap, users can call you, get directions, or visit your site.
• Instant credibility: Seeing reviews, photos, and proximity builds instant trust.
• Higher CTR: Google Snack Pack results get a significantly higher click-through rate than standard listings.

Bonus tip: Embed your Google map and reviews on your website to reinforce trust and consistency across platforms.

The bottom line: Local SEO drives real results

You don’t need to outspend your competitors—you just need to out-local them. By claiming your Google Business Profile, using relevant keywords, earning solid reviews, and creating helpful local content, you can secure one of those coveted top-three spots.

And once you’re there? That visibility can turn into walk-ins, phone calls, and a whole lot more opportunity.

Local SEO is the most powerful (and accessible) digital strategy for small businesses today. The Snack Pack isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must if you want to show up, get found, and grow where it counts.