That is Google's "Direct Answers" (Answer Box) which is not related to Google+, it is just scraped from around the web. You can read a discussion about it here: [webmasterworld.com...]
Notice in the box that shows up for "Apple", the source quoted is wikipedia.

So is there no facility for non bricks and mortar businesses to have a presence?

Is it the case that only 'The Nantucket Pickle Shop' can have such a panel but not 'Cyber Pickles Inc?

Frank I'm getting somewhat mixed messages so am not sure exactly what you set up or what kind of business you have. Because it sounds like you maybe only created a brand page, but are assuming you will get some of the local features too?

You said: "I created a Google+ My Business page with the intention of showing brand information, reviews and google+ followers in the right hand side of google when someone searches for the brand name."

Then later you said:

"'The Nantucket Pickle Shop' can have such a panel but not 'Cyber Pickles Inc"

So I think you are referring to the local knowledge graph.

Search: guitar center Seattle and tell me if the right display is what you are referring to?

If so then only verified Google+ Local pages have that type of right panel display. And only verified Google+ Local pages have reviews. (And just having a G+L page does not guarantee a local knowledge panel. Page needs to be set up right and have just a little authority/maturity to show.)

And you can only have a local page if you are a local business and see customers face to face locally.

If you are a national or online company, you can only have a G+ Business page and those don't rank in search or have reviews.

Did that help?

Linda Buquet

Yes I think that explains it.

I was hoping to have a listing in the right hand panel. I first looked at Google+ Local page but as the site is an online subscription service (with no local or any bricks and mortar presence) then that type of page was not suited.

The google+ intro / info page suggested the creation of a brand page instead, which is what I did create. I had then assumed that after site verification the brand and extra info would be displayed in the right hand panel but nothing is displayed.

Is there now any reason to keep the Google+ Business page or should I just delete it? I only use Twitter for social media and engaging with customers and visitors. I just don't have the time for circles and hangouts and what not.

"Is there now any reason to keep the Google+ Business page or should I just delete it?"

It would not hurt to keep it. I only focus on local, so I'm not sure off hand if a pure G+ brand page will give you what you want. If not, Google is always changing what they display, so you never know.

I'd keep it so you have it. Don't need to post to it right now.