How many Explore Guides must a Belocal franchisee include in each issue of the Publication?
Belocal Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Currently, you must include five Staple articles, two Explore Guides, two Points of View articles, one History article, one Hidden Gem article, and twenty Local Tips articles in each issue of the Publication. Staple articles typically feature information for those who recently moved to the area. Explore Guides feature guides to the city's top offerings, while Point of View articles typically feature information about individuals or groups that live in the surrounding area. History articles feature significant buildings, parks, or other landmarks in the area, and a Hidden Gem article typically features local, under-the radar hot spots. Local Tips articles typically include testimonials from residents about must-see events and places around town.
Source: Item 12 — TERRITORY (FDD pages 42–44)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Belocal's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must include specific articles in each publication issue. Currently, a Belocal franchisee is required to include two Explore Guides in each issue. These Explore Guides are designed to showcase the city's top attractions and offerings.
In addition to the Explore Guides, each issue must also contain five Staple articles, two Points of View articles, one History article, one Hidden Gem article, and twenty Local Tips articles. Staple articles are geared towards newcomers to the area, while Points of View articles highlight individuals or groups within the community. History articles focus on significant local landmarks, and Hidden Gem articles feature under-the-radar local hotspots. Local Tips articles include testimonials from residents about local events and places.
Belocal retains the right to modify the required number of articles on each topic in the Franchise Brand Standards Manual. This means that the number of Explore Guides, as well as the other article types, could change during the term of the Franchise Agreement. It is important for prospective franchisees to stay updated on any changes to these requirements, as failure to comply can result in a business improvement plan and potential termination of the franchise agreement.