How many Hidden Gem articles 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, each issue of the Publication must include one Hidden Gem article. These articles typically feature local, under-the-radar hot spots. In addition to the Hidden Gem article, Belocal requires franchisees to include five Staple articles, two Explore Guides, two Points of View articles, one History article, and twenty Local Tips articles in each issue.
These requirements ensure that each publication meets Belocal's brand standards and provides consistent content to readers. Staple articles focus on information for newcomers, Explore Guides highlight top city offerings, Point of View articles feature local individuals or groups, History articles cover significant landmarks, and Local Tips include resident testimonials. By adhering to these guidelines, franchisees can maintain the quality and appeal of the Belocal publication.
It is important to note that Belocal retains the right to change the required number of articles for each category. This means that the franchisee must stay updated with any modifications to these requirements as outlined in the Franchise Brand Standards Manual to avoid potential default under the Franchise Agreement.