Google has stated throughout their whole existence that using their paid advertising services does not influence the organic rankings (that's why there are paid search results, separated from the organic ones). However, I know from my own experience, and from my colleagues, that Google's customer service helps with the very frequent problems on Google Places to clients using the paid advertising (especially Boost... AdWords Express). Greetings, Nyagoslav OptiLocal
True, Google support through places is only handed out to paying adwords express customers. It's hard to provide support for a free product.
Huh, I didn't know AWE removes your organic if your ad pops up. I think I'm gonna have to verify that. As it remains the products trade offs are that its less efficient than adwords but it requires no management. So funds that were used to pay for management can now be funneled into more AWE campaigning. Of course only if your all about local customers. Edit* Without even asking a manager, I found the information on google's AWE blogspot. I can't post links though The blog states that it will not affect your organic list, in the same way adwords will not affect your organic listing either. I hate to say it but that rep most likely just wanted to make a sale and not send you over to me and the AWE people