The StoreCode variable presented in the Google Business Profile (GBP) dashboard is an optional data element. It allows businesses to add a reference number or ID to match their internal business structures. There is no specific functionality or SEO value within GBP.
In the LocalClarity application, however, the StoreCode variable is used as the core location identification name/number, and is absolutely required to take full advantage of the platform.
Structure
It can be virtually any alpha-numeric structure as long as it is unique for every location. Some businesses make them full description (e.g., ACME-123 Main Street), while others use structures to match other systems (e.g., AC123456CD), while others still use a combined approach (e.g., AC01-Main).
Primary Role, Entity tags
First and foremost, the StoreCode is used to assign entity tags to a location. These are the tags for any customized grouping created for access, reporting, or research. Users need to be able to select custom groups from a drop-down list where they can be correctly identified.
Secondary Role, Mapping of Locations
The Google StoreCode is additionally purposed to serve as the Location ID for all other review platforms. All the reviews and insights from each platform is mapped together via the StoreCode. We find that this flexibility is critically important when location names and even addresses do not match perfectly across source.
Assignment, Individually and Small Groups
Assigning StoreCodes to a single location or just a few locations can be completed entirely within the application.
Opening the knowledge panel of any location will provide a series of widgets next to the location name. One of the widget option's being 'Single Location Edit', which is identified by a pencil icon.
Any of this location's details can be managed and edited by using the right-assigned pencil icon.
A pop-up will appear, allowing us to assign this location a StoreCode. Once that's been applied, the StoreCode will update within the system and within Google almost immediately.
Assignment, Bulk
Assigning StoreCodes in Bulk saves time from the ease of being able to upload a single sheet with each locations new edit.
To successfully upload a bulk file, first and foremost, we must ensure that the file we are uploading is correctly formatted. Luckily, there is a guide file available for download. In this guide file, all that needs to be done is replace the dummy data with our own.
To download this guide file, we must open the Manage Bulk Activity drop-down, select Upload Location Aliases, and then Download a Sample CSV.
Once the file finishes downloading, we will be able to begin filling it in with our own data.
In order to successfully upload StoreCodes in bulk, what is required is to fill out is the corresponding Google LocationID, that location name, and the StoreCode we wish to assign to it.
Once we've assign our locations new StoreCodes, we can save it as a .CSV and upload it in the Upload Location Details pop-out.
If successful, the locations should update within 15-30 minutes. Don't see an update? Check the upload status in Citation History within Manage Bulk Activity.
Management
Learn more on how to use StoreCodes to create Entity Tags here, What is an entity tag? How do I create one?
Keywords: storcecode, store code, store variables, GMB variables