How to Use Online Ads to Get More Local Sales

Why Local Advertising Matters for Franchises

Even if your franchise has national recognition, local ads are key to attracting the right people in your neighborhood—and keeping them coming back. Here’s why local advertising works:

1. More People Know Your Store Locally

National ads build general brand awareness, but local ads help your nearby customers remember your specific store—and find it quickly.

2. More People Visit Your Store

Local ads are designed to drive foot traffic to your nearest franchise location, helping boost daily sales and visits.

3. Stronger Customer Loyalty

When you connect with your community, your franchise becomes more than just a name—it becomes part of the local conversation.

Best Local Advertising Strategies for Franchises

1. Fix Your Google Business Profile
   Make sure every store location has the correct name, address, phone number, and hours. Upload quality photos of your storefront, products, and team. This helps your franchise show up on Google and Maps when people search nearby.

2. Use Social Media Ads
   Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok let you target users by ZIP code or city. Share engaging, visual content with local offers to get clicks and store visits.
   
   

3. Run Local Paid Ads
   Use Google Ads to show up when people search for things like:

• “ice cream near me”
  
  

• “pizza delivery in [city]”
  
  

• “fitness classes Wake Forest”

Explore 9 Proven Strategies to Maximize Paid Advertising ROI in 2025

4. Join Local Events
   Sponsor sports teams, charity runs, school activities, or festivals in your area. This builds brand trust and name recognition in your community.

5. Send Local Emails
   Email marketing still works—especially when it’s personal. Share store-specific deals, events, or limited-time offers with your local audience to keep them engaged and coming back.

Want to know more? Discover how email marketing helps franchises grow