Local AEO Best Practices for Small Businesses in 2026

In 2026, AI assistants will decide which local businesses get recommended, and which ones disappear. When a customer asks an AI assistant, “Who’s the best plumber near me?” does your business get named? If Google Gemini or ChatGPT had to recommend one local business today, would yours make the cut? Find out exactly what AI assistants look for and how to fix the gaps that are costing you customers.