I see two broad goals to think about in creating a business targeted to local Merchants -
1. Make it as easy as possible for the business to have an independent, respectable website. Ideally with good SEO, strong marketing copy, and a clear call to action such as a form or a phone call.
2. Intelligently connect that to a huge distribution platform where they could attract local customers. Could be Google Search, Maps, Mobile, house mailing list, or any number of things. Aggregating engaged local consumers is a big opportunity.
