How to Create a Dealer Locator with Exclusive Territories

Create a dealer locator that shows the right dealers for each region, not just the nearest ones. Perfect for manufacturers, brands, and B2B companies with authorized dealer networks or distributor territories.

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The Challenge

Most locators sort by distance. But dealer and distributor networks don't work that way. A dealer might be the exclusive partner for an entire state. A distributor might handle all of Western Europe. Showing the "nearest" location can send customers to the wrong partner.

With Storepoint, you can define territories and assign dealers to each region. When customers search, they see the authorized partners for their area, not just whoever is closest.

Before You Start

You'll need a Storepoint account on the Business plan to use territory management. Storepoint is an embeddable dealer locator widget that works on any website: Shopify, WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, Webflow, custom-built sites, and many more.

Don't have an account yet? Start a free trial and follow along. You can set up your locator on any plan, then upgrade to Business when you're ready to add territories.

Step 1: Add Your Dealers 📍

Head to Manage Locations and add your dealers, distributors, or authorized partners:

• 📋 Spreadsheet upload: Got a list? Upload from a CSV or Excel file
• ✏️ Add one by one: Click "Add Location" and fill in the details
• 🔄 Google Sheets sync: Connect a Google Sheet for automatic updates when your dealer list changes

Include all relevant details: dealer name, address, contact info, website, and any categories or tags that describe their specialties.

Step 2: Add It to Your Website 🌐

Before embedding, you'll need a map provider connected. Head to Map Providers to set up Mapbox or Google Maps.

1. Go to Embed in your dashboard
2. Copy the embed code
3. Paste it into your website

Your dealer locator is now live and working. At this point, it shows results by distance. Next, you'll define territories.

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Platform Guides

Need help embedding? Shopify · WordPress · Squarespace · Webflow · All platforms

Step 3: Define Territories 🗺️

This is where your dealer locator becomes territory-aware. Using Spotlight, you'll draw regions on the map and assign dealers to each one.

Open Spotlight

Create a Territory Rule

1. Go to Spotlight in your dashboard
2. Click New Rule
3. Name it something descriptive (e.g., "Northeast Region - ABC Distributors")
4. Add a Geographic Area trigger and draw your territory on the map
5. Add a Show Only Specific Locations action and select the dealers for that region
6. Save the rule

Now, when customers search within that region, they'll only see the dealers you assigned, regardless of distance.

Multiple Territories

Repeat the process for each territory. Create a rule for each region, draw the boundaries, and assign the authorized dealers or distributors.

Other Territory Options

Spotlight is flexible. Beyond exclusive territories, you can:

• Include dealers in results: Add a regional dealer to all searches in their coverage area, even if other dealers are closer
• Boost dealers to the top: Feature preferred partners at the top of results without hiding others
• Show promotional banners: Display messages about regional promotions or events
• Handle no-coverage areas: Show a helpful message when customers search an area you don't serve

See the full Spotlight documentation for all options.

You're Live! 🎉

Your dealer locator now respects territory boundaries. Customers searching in each region see the authorized dealers for that area.

Any changes you make in your dashboard automatically update on your website. Add new dealers, adjust territories, or update assignments anytime.

What's Next?

Now that your dealer locator is live, explore what else you can do:

• 🏷️ Filters & Tags: Let customers filter dealers by product line, certification, or specialty
• 📍 Custom Markers: Use your brand's icons or different markers for dealer tiers
• 🔘 Custom Buttons: Add "Request Quote", "Contact Dealer", or other actions
• 🔍 Search Settings: Configure radius options, distance units, and search behavior
• 📊 Google Sheets Sync: Keep your dealer list updated automatically
• 🌍 Multiple Languages: Display your locator in any language

Common Questions

Can dealers belong to multiple territories?

Yes. When you create territory rules, you can include the same dealer in multiple regions. This is useful for dealers who serve overlapping areas or border regions.

What if a customer searches outside all territories?

By default, they'll see results sorted by distance. You can also create a Spotlight rule for "no results" areas to show a message, suggest contacting you directly, or redirect to a contact form.

Can I have non-exclusive territories?

Yes. Instead of "show only," use "boost locations" to feature specific dealers at the top while still showing others. Or use "include locations" to ensure regional dealers always appear in results for their coverage area.

Do I need to redraw territories if I add new dealers?

No. Territory boundaries stay the same. Just edit the Spotlight rule to add or remove dealers from the assignment.

Need Help?

Setting up territories can feel complex. We're here to help. Email us and we'll help you plan and configure your dealer territories.