How can I get a Google places 'widget' displaying on SERPS?

[davidmaxwell]

Hi all,

My query relates to the Google Places 'Widget' (not sure what they are called exactly). If you do a search for, let's say 'Apple' you get the regular SERPs and on the right of the page they display a Google Places panel which includes map, company details & reviews. (and also a G+ panel for some businesses, where appropriate)

What determines this being displayed?  I had presumed a correctly formatted and optimised 'Places' page and making sure this was linked and verified. We have Google Places set up for quite a long time (and verified) but for some reason it's not being displayed. Any thoughts?

On another note, a client of ours has the opposite issue - they would like to remove this panel from SERPs. I'm guessing the only way to do that would be to remove the Google Places page?

Thanks in advance...

[MiriamEllis]

Hi David!

I believe you are referring to the knowledge panel and I think this great post from Mike Blumenthal should really hit the spot:

http://localu.org/blog/local-knowledge-panel-doesnt-show-google-can/

Hope it helps!

[davidmaxwell]

Many thanks Miriam, that's most appreciated. Will have a look at the link shortly.

[MiriamEllis]

You're very welcome, David. Hope it helps!