Google has introduced a new type of ad for local businesses called Local Listing Ads. They are designed to display when users search for a business in its local area. Google says it’s the easiest way to advertise your business to local customers on Google, because they require no maintenance. 

The ads just consist of a business name, contact information (with a unique phone number from Google for tracking purposes), and a link. The units will appear on Google.com in local results at the top of the results page, and in Google Maps.

"Unlike Google AdWords, Local Listing Ads require no management of ad creative, keywords, bidding or budget management," the company says. "After you select a standard category that best describes your business, Google determines the cost that ensures the ad is seen by the highest number of people looking for businesses like yours in your location."

Google says local listing ads provide advertisers with:

- Ads shown on Google.com and Google Maps

-  A flat monthly fee based on your location and business category

-  First 30 days free

-  No bid or keyword management

-  Free call-tracking, announcing each forwarded customer call (‘This caller brought to you by Google’)

-  Full report on the number of calls, clicks to your ad, requests for driving directions, and clicks to your info window on Google Maps

-  The option to cancel your ad at any time

Following is how your ads would look on Google.com and on Google Maps:

According to Google, over 80% of people look to Google for local information, and this is a way to make you listing stand out. The ads are targeted only to people who are near your business.

As an added bonus, so you know when the ad has been effective, Google says you’ll hear "this call brought to you by Google" with every call made from your ad.

Payment for Local Listing Ads is a flat monthly fee, which varies by location and business category. Advertisers pay the same each month no matter how many times people click or view your ad. Google says advertisers will be given the chance to confirm the monthly flat fee that is unlikely to change frequently or be notified of the change 30 days in advance via email and your LBC account message.

Local Listing Ads are only being tested right now. For the time being, they’re available in San Francisco and San Diego. It’s hard to say when they will become available for all.