Google Ads

Google updates advanced location options for Performance Max campaigns

For Performance Max campaigns with a Google Merchant Center feed, you’ll now see advanced location options for targeting and exclusions.

Entrepreneur and ad agency owner Kasim Aslam first noticed the new feature yesterday.

Google confirmed it. “In campaign settings under “Location options,” advertisers will now find the ability to target based on physical “Presence” or “Presence or interest”. For Performance Max campaigns for online sales with a product feed, we’ll also be adding advanced location exclusions for “Presence” or “Presence or interest” similar to what is available in Smart Shopping campaigns today,” a Google representative told us.  

Why we care. Advertisers who receive junk clicks or leads should now have the option to exclude certain locations from their targeting. Google is attempting to give advertisers new feature updates aimed at more transparency and account/campaign-level controls- specifically with Performance Max campaigns. When taking advantage of this feature, ensure you’re clicking the correct option to avoid excluding the wrong targets.

Explore more on

Geotargeting Google Google Ads Merchant Center Online advertising
Add Search Engine Land as a preferred source on Google

Editorial disclosure

Contributing authors are chosen for their expertise and work under the oversight of the editorial staff. Search Engine Land is owned by Semrush. The contributor was not asked to mention Semrush; the opinions expressed are their own.

About the author

Nicole Farley
Nicole Farley is the founder of Web Sprout, an inbound marketing agency. She formerly was PPC Editor for Search Engine Land (from 2022-2023), covering paid search, paid social, Google Analytics and more. In addition to being a Marine Corps veteran, she has an extensive background in digital marketing, an MBA and a penchant for true crime, podcasts, travel, and snacks.