A store locator does not need Google Maps. Maps, address search and routes also work with open map data such as OpenStreetMap - without a Google account, without your own API key and, depending on the provider, without your visitors' browsers sending data to a map service outside your control. What matters is not only which map is shown, but where tiles, search and routes are loaded from.
Why companies skip Google Maps
The reasons are usually the same three:
- Privacy. When a page loads a Google map, your visitors' browsers connect to Google and transmit, among other things, their IP address. Many companies ask for consent first and have to list the service in their cookie banner and privacy policy. Our guide Store locators and GDPR explains the background.
- Cost and billing. Building your own store finder on the Google Maps Platform requires a Google Cloud account with a payment method. Map loads, address search and autocomplete are billed individually above a free allowance. Current numbers are in our comparison Google Maps DIY vs. store locator.
- Technology. API keys have to be created, restricted to your domain and maintained. Many store locator plugins and apps require exactly this key - a hurdle for small teams.
The building blocks of a map - and where the data goes
A store locator uses three services in the background. For each one, ask who runs it:
| Building block | What it does | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Map tiles | The map image visitors pan and zoom | Do tiles come directly from a third-party server or through your store locator provider? |
| Address search (geocoding) | Turns "Cologne" or "50667" into a point on the map | Is what visitors type passed on to third parties together with their IP address? |
| Routes | The way to the location by car, bike or on foot | Is an external service called for every route? |
A map "based on OpenStreetMap" says nothing about where this data is loaded from. If your visitors' browsers load tiles directly from public OpenStreetMap servers, those servers receive the IP addresses too. So always ask which server tiles, search and routes run through.
Google Maps alternatives for your website
OpenStreetMap with public servers
OpenStreetMap is a free map project. Many plugins load tiles directly from its public servers. That works without an account, but the public servers are not meant for heavy traffic, and your visitors' browsers still connect to a third party.
Commercial map providers
Some map providers offer their own tiles and search services for a fee. They usually come with contracts and quotas - and, as a rule, an API key that you manage yourself.
A store locator with its own map server
Some store locator providers run tiles, address search and routes themselves. You then do not need an API key of your own, and there is only one provider to sign a data processing agreement with.
This is how My Store Locator works: map tiles and address search come through our own server in Germany, with map data from OpenStreetMap. Your visitors' browsers do not contact external map services, and we do not pass on your visitors' IP addresses. You do not need an API key. From the Pro plan, the map shows routes by car, bike or on foot directly. Google Maps as an additional map provider is coming soon - for those who explicitly want it.
What a store locator without Google Maps must still do
Going without Google must not mean a worse store finder. Check these points:
- Address search with suggestions, so visitors don't need the exact spelling.
- "Use my location" for mobile visitors.
- Distances and sorting by proximity.
- Route planning, in the map or as a link.
- Opening hours with "open now", including public holidays and special days.
- A consent option, in case your privacy advisor still recommends it - for example a two-click mode.
- A mobile layout that is easy to use on a phone.
For WordPress, Shopify, Wix and Webflow
A hosted store locator works regardless of your website system: you paste a code snippet, and the map and data come from the provider. There are guides for WordPress, Shopify, Wix, Webflow and HTML/iframe. You do not need a Google API key.
Note: Not legal advice. Whether your map needs consent depends on your specific setup. Have it checked by your privacy advisor.
FAQ
Does a store locator without Google Maps work just as well?
For the typical jobs - map, search by place or postcode, distance, route and opening hours - yes. OpenStreetMap is available worldwide and very detailed in Europe.
Do I need an API key for My Store Locator?
No. Map and address search run through our own server. You only paste the embed code into your website.
Is OpenStreetMap automatically privacy-friendly?
Not automatically. What matters is which server the tiles are loaded from. If your visitors' browsers load them directly from public servers, IP addresses are transmitted there.
Which Google Maps alternative suits my website?
For a single address, a simple map based on OpenStreetMap is often enough. For several locations with search, filters and opening hours, a store locator that provides map tiles and address search itself makes sense - then you do not need an API key of your own.
Can I still use Google Maps later?
Google Maps as an additional map provider is coming soon at My Store Locator. Your embed code stays the same.
Try it with your own locations.
Create an account, import your locations, embed the map. The Free plan stays free - and you can test Pro for 14 days.