In a post last month we told you about the location names that appear beneath locally targeted ads. We've recently made updates with the introduction of the AdWords Local PlusBox. The Local PlusBox is a feature that displays more geographical information for a local business ad that appears in the top position above Google search results. When users see the Local PlusBox and click on it (see the 'closed' screenshot below), the ad expands to include a map, address, driving instructions, and phone number, in addition to the location name that appears beneath the last line of ad.

Closed:

Expanded:

(Click on each image for a full-size version)

If your ad appears with the Local PlusBox, you'll still only pay for clicks that lead to your landing page. You won't be charged for clicks on the Local PlusBox, map, or driving instructions.

If you're already using local business ads, you don't have to change anything in your campaign settings for this feature to appear. If you want the Local PlusBox displayed with your ad, your ad must show in the top position. We recommend increasing your ad quality to improve your ad's position, and please remember that all ads must meet quality and price thresholds to appear at the top of the page.

We are in the process of rolling out this feature to AdWords accounts in the US, Canada, UK, and Germany. It should be available to all advertisers with top placement ads in these countries within the coming week or so.

Posted by Christina, Inside AdWords crew