Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about OptimizedStoreFinder. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us.
Getting Started
How do I install OptimizedStoreFinder?
Visit the Shopify App Store and click 'Add app.' You'll be redirected to authorize the app on your Shopify store. The entire process takes about 30 seconds.
How long does setup take?
Most merchants are up and running in under 30 minutes. Install the app, add your locations (or import via CSV), customize the widget styling, and add it to your theme. That's it.
Does it work with my Shopify theme?
Yes. OptimizedStoreFinder uses Shopify's theme app extensions, which are compatible with all Online Store 2.0 themes. If you're on a vintage theme, contact us for alternative installation options.
Do I need any coding knowledge?
No. Everything is managed through a visual interface in your Shopify admin. No code editing required.
Location Management
How do I add locations?
You can add locations manually (one at a time) or import them in bulk via CSV. Manual entry includes address autocomplete powered by Google, so you just start typing and we handle the rest.
Is there a limit to how many locations I can add?
It depends on your plan. Starter includes 25 locations, Growth includes 100, and Scale offers unlimited locations.
Can I import locations from a spreadsheet?
Yes. Download our CSV template, fill in your location data, and upload it. We'll validate the data and import all locations at once. You can also use CSV imports to update existing locations.
What information can I include for each location?
Each location can include: store name, full address, phone number, business hours (regular and special), store images, logo, description, categories/tags, and custom fields for amenities or services.
How do I organize locations by type?
Use categories and tags. Create categories like 'Flagship Store,' 'Authorized Retailer,' or 'Outlet' and assign them to locations. Customers can filter by category on the storefront.
SEO & Structured Data
How does OptimizedStoreFinder improve my SEO?
We generate a dedicated, crawlable page for each location with proper meta tags, canonical URLs, and LocalBusiness structured data. We also create a custom XML sitemap for your location pages. This helps search engines discover, understand, and index your locations.
What is structured data and why does it matter?
Structured data (also called schema markup) is code that helps search engines understand your content. For store locations, we use Google's LocalBusiness schema to communicate your name, address, phone, hours, and location. This can improve how your locations appear in search results.
What structured data format do you use?
We use JSON-LD (JavaScript Object Notation for Linked Data), which is Google's recommended format. It's embedded directly in the <head> of each location page.
Do I need to submit anything to Google?
We recommend submitting your location sitemap to Google Search Console. We provide instructions and the sitemap URL. This speeds up indexing but isn't strictly required—Google will eventually find your pages through your main sitemap and internal links.
Can I customize the meta titles and descriptions?
Yes. We auto-generate them based on your location data, but you can override with custom copy for any location.
Will this replace my Google Business Profile?
No. OptimizedStoreFinder and Google Business Profile serve different purposes. GBP manages your listings in Google Search and Maps. OptimizedStoreFinder creates pages on your own website. We recommend using both—and our Scale plan will sync data to GBP (coming soon).
Storefront Widget
How do I add the store finder to my website?
Go to your Shopify theme editor (Online Store > Themes > Customize), find the OptimizedStoreFinder section or block, and add it to any page. No code required.
Can I customize the widget appearance?
Yes. You can customize colors to match your brand, choose between map styles, adjust the layout, and modify button text. Scale plan users can also inject custom CSS.
What map service do you use?
We support both Google Maps and Mapbox. You can choose your preference in the app settings.
Does geolocation work on mobile?
Yes, with the user's permission. When a customer clicks 'Use My Location,' their browser requests location access. If granted, we show nearby stores. If denied, they can still search by address or zip code.
Can customers filter by category?
Yes (Growth and Scale plans). If you've set up categories for your locations, customers can filter the list to show only certain types of stores.
Technical Questions
Does OptimizedStoreFinder slow down my site?
No. The storefront widget loads asynchronously and doesn't block your page rendering. Location pages are server-rendered for optimal performance. We've designed the app to meet Shopify's Built for Shopify performance requirements.
Is the app GDPR compliant?
Yes. We only collect data necessary to provide the service. We don't sell or share merchant or customer data. Our full privacy policy is available on our website.
Do you support multiple languages?
Currently, the admin interface is English-only. However, your location content (names, descriptions, etc.) can be in any language. Multi-language widget support is on our roadmap.
What happens to my data if I uninstall?
Your location data is archived for 30 days. During this time, you can reinstall and restore your data. After 30 days, data is permanently deleted.
Do you offer an API?
Yes, for Scale plan customers. The API allows you to programmatically manage locations and integrate with other systems. Documentation is available after subscribing.
Pricing & Billing
Is there a free trial?
Yes, 14 days free on all plans. No credit card required to start.
How does billing work?
OptimizedStoreFinder is billed through Shopify. Charges appear on your regular Shopify invoice. You can manage your subscription from the app settings or your Shopify admin.
Can I change plans?
Yes. Upgrade anytime (takes effect immediately) or downgrade (applies at next billing cycle). Manage your plan from the app settings.
What happens if I exceed my location limit?
We'll notify you when you're approaching your limit. You can continue using all existing locations, but won't be able to add new ones until you upgrade or remove locations.
Do you offer refunds?
We offer a full refund within the first 7 days of any paid subscription. After that, you can cancel anytime but won't receive a refund for the current billing period.
Do you offer discounts?
We offer 20% off for annual billing. Non-profits and educational institutions may qualify for additional discounts—contact us for details.
Support
How do I get help?
All plans include email support at support@optimizedstorefinder.com. Growth plans get priority email with 24hr response time. Scale plans include phone support and a dedicated account manager.
Is there documentation?
Yes. We have a comprehensive help center with guides, tutorials, and video walkthroughs. Access it from the app's help menu.
Do you offer onboarding?
Scale plan customers receive a dedicated onboarding session with a product specialist. We'll help you import locations, configure settings, and optimize for SEO.
Can't Find What You're Looking For?
Our team is happy to help with any questions about OptimizedStoreFinder.
Contact SupportOr email us directly: support@optimizedstorefinder.com
Ready to Put Your Locations on the Map—and in Search Results?
Join hundreds of Shopify merchants using OptimizedStoreFinder to drive local traffic.