Another tip on the responsive web design side (I run a web design shop): responsive websites are amazing, and all we build, but that in combination with high-res images (for retina displays etc) can be a site speed killer if not done properly. Make sure to minimize, cache, etc etc to get your site running as quickly as possible, since site speed factors into local seo rank too.

Thanks for the comment. Are you referring to the local 8 pack or the first page in general? You don’t have to reveal the website, but could you provide the service + geo modifier of the locale you are referring to? I would love to analyze the results. Here in the US, its very rare to see a non-local business show up in the 8-pack. Every now and then I will see non-local businesses under the 8-pack, but this is extremely rare. I guess it depends on the industry in question. If there are few local businesses serving a particular area, then Google may provide nearby businesses to fill the results. Again, I would love to analyze the locale you are referring to.

Thanks!

I’ve not had any issues with ranking in a City / Town i’m not physically located in.

I use this method extensively throughout the UK and it’s been key to the growth of my business.

I hope this isn’t something that will filter its way down in the future.