Google tested the idea of subscription-based services for GMB in April 2019.
Outside of local services ADs,Google has started to offer .
Google Guaranteed certification with a monthly fee. A badge will appear on the profile and the local Pack as well and it is positioned as an “upgraded profile”.
Monthly charge
Monthly charge is $50, subject to Google Guaranteed normal eligibility rules, that include background and licensing checks. If the eligibility requirements are met the annual cost of the program would be $600.
In order to impart greater consumer confidence in the advertised businesses,Google Guaranteed was introduced in connection with Local Services Ads,. Later, it has also evolved into a distinct program used to certify local businesses for inclusion in Google Home/Assistant search results.
Google Guaranteed badge on Profile and in Local Pack
image Courtesy : Search engine journal
Market opportunity of Google.
In April 2019 Google conducted a small business owner survey, which covered digital agencies as well. It included enhanced GMB services and profile upgrades and how much businesses might be willing to pay for them. Among the options in the survey verified profiles and Google Guaranteed certification were also included
TO LEARN MORE : https://ads.google.com/local-services-ads/