Adelaide business owner battles tech giant Google to have his pub acknowledged on the platform

2024-10-23 217

It's a pub in the bustling heart of the CBD, but for 10 months. It hasn't existed according to Google. “People can't find us and they can't engage with our product and anyone who has a crack at looking for us will probably end up quite confused.” Formerly known as the Ambassadors Hotel, Darren Brown renovated and rebranded the venue as The King William. But getting that updated on Google has been an uphill battle. “The process is very painful because it feels like every time you email or every time you get a response or start, it's just starting the process all over again.” With no business profile on Google, Mr Brown fears he's been losing out on substantial trade. "Parts of this building are heritage listed and it's one of the oldest pubs in South Australia, but Darren says people just don't know it's here." Taking on the battle on Mr Brown's behalf. This marketing director says an official listing on Google is critical. "In terms of not being able to find the Google My Business, it's like, the kind of motherload of or the center point of your business. So, if it's not there, your kind of like, what is this? Does it exist?" And... Ms Ricourt says he's not her only client who's struggled to get the corporation to recognise their business. After the A-B-C made enquiries to Google this week. A spokesperson said they were investigating the matter and "working to address the issue fully". Now, the King William Hotel has finally been listed on Google with basic information and historic reviews. But Mr Brown says it's just taken too long. “It seems pretty unfair. Like we're talking 10s of thousands of dollars that I think I'm out of pocket.” “I think they certainly need a better process. Like, I'm sure they've got the finances to employ the right people and also just speed up the process.” Nonetheless a small cheer of celebration after an infuriating wait for this Adelaide venue.