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89% AI Search Demand Unclaimed
A recent study found that 89% of AI search demand has no clear owner, presenting an opportunity for local businesses to claim this space. This affects local businesses' visibility and potential revenue, as AI search becomes increasingly prevalent. By understanding and leveraging this gap, local businesses can improve their online presence.
Background: AI search is becoming a significant factor in how users find information online, and local businesses need to adapt to this shift to remain visible. AI citations and brand mentions play a crucial role in this visibility.
What changed: Research by Kevin Indig across 1,094 categories revealed that only 15.2% have a clear ChatGPT owner, indicating a vast, unclaimed territory in AI search demand. This presents a unique opportunity for local businesses to establish themselves in AI search results.
Why it matters: The lack of clear ownership in AI search demand means that local businesses can potentially increase their online visibility and reach by targeting this unclaimed space. This could lead to increased bookings, sales, and brand awareness, especially for businesses that are proactive in claiming this space.
Niche breakdown: For example, a hair salon could benefit by optimizing its content for AI search to attract clients looking for styling advice or recommendations. A coffee shop could use this opportunity to become the go-to answer for coffee-related queries in AI search, potentially driving foot traffic and sales. A pet groomer could establish itself as an authority on pet care, attracting pet owners seeking advice on grooming and health.
What to watch: Local businesses should monitor the development of AI search and its integration with various platforms. They should also keep an eye on how competitors are leveraging AI search and adjust their strategies accordingly. The key will be to act quickly, as the window of opportunity may close as more businesses become aware of and claim this space.
To capitalize on this opportunity, local businesses should immediately start auditing their content for AI visibility and begin creating content that is optimized for AI search. This includes using specific keywords and phrases that are likely to be queried in AI search and ensuring that their Google Business Profile and other online listings are up-to-date and accurately reflect their services and expertise. By doing so, they can increase their chances of being named in AI search results, thereby enhancing their online presence and potential revenue.
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Source: Search Engine Journal · 2026-07-29
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