Google Local Changes - Integrated Google Local Results in SERPS

On 27th October, Google has Integrated Google Local Results in SERPS. Google is not replacing organic results with local results but they are merging the Local and Organic results.

20% of all search queries are local in nature and Google's merger of organic and local search is a significant shift in the way the leading search engine displays information. Place Search is underway and it will be available globally in more than 40 languages.

According to Google:

One of the great things about our approach is that it makes it easier to find a comprehensive view of each place. In our new layout you’ll find many more relevant links on a single results page—often 30 or 40.

Please review the below mentioned snapshot to have better understanding about the integrated local result:

You must have observed that “Map and Balloons” has moved to the right, pushing down the Google Adwords ads. Phone numbers are displayed prominently to the right of each listing.There can be up to 40 results on one page and reviews/citations and on-page optimization of web site will be having good impact in local results.

 Impact:

• Reviews and citations become more visible.  Not only is Google showing the number of reviews, but also third-party sites like Yelp, Insider Pages, etc. and how many reviews are on those sites.
• Traditional SEO is going to play an important role as traditional SEO factors will heavily affect who shows up for local searches, and Google will apply the local data to create the results.