Local pack.In plain English.

Google says people searching for a nearby business find local results on both Google Maps and Search. The businesses listed there are Business Profiles, so the profile's details are what customers see. In practice the pack often shows three businesses with their rating, hours and a call button, though Google doesn't document a fixed number.

Google says local results are based mainly on relevance, distance and popularity, which its guide also calls prominence: how well known a business is, including how many websites link to it and how many reviews it has. More reviews and positive ratings can help.

Verified profiles with complete and accurate information are more likely to show up, and Google says there's no way to request or pay for a better local ranking.

Ads are separate. Local Services Ads appear at the top of the page with a Google Verified badge, and they're ranked partly on your bid and partly on your profile, including reviews and how quickly you respond. Google says missed calls can count against you.

Example: someone searches for an emergency plumber at 9pm. The pack shows nearby plumbers with their ratings, hours and a call button, so a plumber whose profile shows the wrong hours can lose that call.