A new online booking channel that saves time and unlocks new business, but at what cost?

Reserve with Google integrated with AutoGuru “to build on our shared goals to offer seamless and convenient ways for people to make auto maintenance appointments through Google Search and Maps,” says a Google representative that initiated the partnership between Google and AutoGuru.
The integration launched at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAE) in April 2024 and continues to improve quoting and booking efficiency, and attract new customers for the mechanics participating in the pilot, says AutoGuru.
But does the Reserve with Google integration give AutoGuru control over mechanic’s Google Business Profiles? The answer is no.
According to Google “the Reserve with Google integration enables users to discover local merchants on Google Search and Maps, and then redirect them to the appointment provider’s landing page to complete the booking. The Reserve with Google integration does not in any way limit or restrict the functionality of merchants’ Google Business Profiles, as they both exist as separate functions”.
1st Choice Mechanical Repairs has had the Reserve with Google booking button active for more than three months, and was asked about the impact the online booking option has had on their Google Business Profile and their business.
“AutoGuru doesn’t have any control of our Google Business Profile. The only change to our Google Business Profile is having the book now button available. Everything else is the same,” 1st Choice Mechanical Workshop Manager, Mel Cvetkovski, said.
“(Having Reserve with Google) is doing really well, a lot of people are using the book now button as it is easy for them to book 24/7 when they think about it and it is convenient for them, rather than waiting for our workshop to open.”
AutoGuru also highlights the following as other common questions it has received from mechanics.

How does Reserve with Google affect my Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)?
Reserve with Google can enhance local SEO by increasing a business’s visibility and engagement on Google Search and Maps.
By integrating booking options, businesses can improve their Google Business Profile, which can be a crucial factor in local SEO rankings.
Enhanced engagement metrics, such as higher click-through rates and increased user interactions, signal to Google that the business is relevant and trustworthy, potentially boosting its search rankings.
Additionally, AutoGuru says the convenience and functionality offered by Reserve with Google can lead to more positive reviews, further improving local SEO performance. Businesses that leverage this feature effectively could gain a competitive edge in local search results​, it says.

Can I link the Reserve with Google book online button to my website?
The Reserve with Google book online button can only be added to your Google Business Profile, not your own website.
If automotive businesses want to add a booking button to their website or other digital channels, AutoGuru says one way they can do this is with AutoGuru’s white label booking solution, BookingGuru.
Reserve with Google and BookingGuru are two new direct booking options in AutoGuru’s expanded suite of digital solutions, developed to support the automotive service industry’s adaptation to the digital age.
With these tools, AutoGuru says service providers can access leading booking technology and benefit from efficiency and convenience without needing to be a bookable member of AutoGuru’s retail marketplace.

For more information or to activate Reserve with Google, visit www.autoguru.com.au/google

For more information about BookingGuru, visit www.autoguru.com.au/about/bookingguru