71.9% of Businesses Interested in MEO Agencies! 63.8% of Consumers Use Google Maps for Store Selection [Survey of 230 Businesses and 243 Consumers]

FreeSquare Inc. (Headquarters: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Masahiro Tokushima) has announced the launch of a new sales partner program in response to the increasing demand for Map Engine Optimization (MEO) store traffic support. The company is seeking partners nationwide, including web design firms, advertising agencies, sales firms, consulting firms, and individual entrepreneurs.

The company also conducted a survey on "Google Maps usage" and "interest in MEO products" targeting 243 general consumers and 230 businesses that serve clients needing regional customer traffic (IT, media, advertising, etc.).

The results show that while Google Maps significantly influences store selection, many consumers are "dissatisfied with lack of information or delays in updates." Furthermore, approximately 72% of businesses managing retail or local traffic-dependent clients expressed interest in MEO services.

In response to these market needs, FreeSquare has revamped its agency system to launch a new sales partner framework.

MEO (Map Engine Optimization) is a customer acquisition strategy that optimizes store information on Google Maps and Google Business Profile to improve ranking in search and map results.

■ Approximately 64% Use Google Maps for Store Selection
When 243 general consumers were asked if they refer to Google Maps search results or info when looking for services, a total of 63.78% answered that they use it for store selection.

■ Dissatisfaction Among Google Maps Users
When 243 consumers were asked about inconveniences experienced when searching for stores on Google Maps, the following responses were received:
- Information is outdated or wrong: 28.81%
- Few photos, making it hard to grasp the store atmosphere: 23.46%
- Unclear whether business hours or holidays are correct: 18.93%
- Features or services are hard to understand: 18.52%
- Reliability of reviews is difficult to judge: 13.99%

■ Rising Interest in MEO Products Due to Expanded Traffic Needs
When 230 businesses were asked if they were interested in handling MEO as a proposal product, a total of 71.93% responded positively, including those already doing so or considering it.

Furthermore, regarding the preferred sales model, 39.13% preferred the "OEM Agency" model, where the agency handles sales, contracts, and ongoing client correspondence.