When Google Allows Duplicate Content for Local SEO

Google’s John Mueller clarified that localized duplicate content across regional websites is permissible. Specific page types should still provide unique content.

As companies serve varied regional markets, SEO specialists and digital marketers are concerned about managing duplicate content across localized websites. 

John Mueller, a member of Google’s Search Relations team, discussed this issue in the most recent session of Google SEO office hours.

When asked directly, “Does Google penalize duplicate content for localized websites?”. Mueller responded: 

“The answer is no. Localized content is not considered duplicate content.” 

When Duplicate Content Is Acceptable In Local SEO 

Duplicate content is a concern as Google has historically viewed excessive duplication as an attempt to manipulate rankings. 

Muller’s response acknowledges that businesses operating in multiple regions must adapt content to specific locales through translation or cultural customization.

Localized duplication is considered appropriate because it fulfills the objective of providing tailored experiences to international audiences. 

Examples 

Based on Mueller’s statement, below are some examples of localized duplicate material that would likely be regarded as acceptable by Google.

• Duplicating the same website material across multiple language versions (for example, an English version and a Spanish version with the same content translated).

• Using identical core product/service descriptions on city-specific pages or subdomains. 

• Duplicating company history/information on many geographical websites or landing pages.

• Keeping accurate NAP (name, address, and phone) business listing information across directories, location pages, and other sources.

When Duplicate Content Is Not Acceptable In Local SEO

Mueller’s guidelines do not give broad permission to duplicate information across many places.

The related article states that duplicate content is not permitted on some pages.

Examples

The following categories of localized pages should not have duplicate content:

• Service Area Pages: These location-specific pages should provide distinct explanations of how your service or solution addresses the demands of clients in that specific area. Duplicate material here may convey confusing messages.
• City/Metro Landing Pages: When targeting exposure in a new city or metro region, provide new content that includes local landmarks, nearby suburbs, customer testimonials, and other localized information.
• Articles/Blogs: Take advantage of the potential to generate hyper-local, relevant content based on hot themes and current happenings in your target locations. Use forms such as lists, movies, and infographics.

Mueller’s comment is significant for websites that keep localized versions because it allays fears about future sanctions.

This enables businesses to concentrate on reaching global audiences without fear of penalties.

Source- searchenginejournal