Local Seo
GBP Categories
GBP categories are the predefined business types you select in Google Business Profile to describe what your business does. You choose one primary category and up to nine additional categories.
Why GBP Categories Matters for SEO
Your primary category is one of the strongest local ranking signals. Choosing the wrong one means you are invisible for your most valuable searches. Additional categories expand the queries you appear for, but the primary is what Google weighs most heavily.
How GBP Categories Works
Google matches search queries to GBP categories to decide which businesses to show. Your primary category should be the most specific, accurate description of your core business. Additional categories cover secondary services. Google regularly adds and updates available categories, so review yours periodically.
Common Mistakes
- Choosing a broad primary category when a more specific one exists
- Adding irrelevant additional categories trying to rank for unrelated services
- Not reviewing category options regularly as Google adds new ones
Want to go deeper?
Read the full guide: Google Business Profile Optimization →