How many History 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 History article. These articles should focus on significant buildings, parks, or other landmarks within the franchisee's territory. In addition to the History article, Belocal requires franchisees to include five Staple articles, two Explore Guides, two Points of View articles, one Hidden Gem article, and twenty Local Tips articles in each issue.
These requirements ensure that each publication maintains a consistent format and provides a range of content types to appeal to different readers. Staple articles are geared towards newcomers, Explore Guides highlight the city's attractions, Points of View articles feature local individuals or groups, Hidden Gem articles uncover under-the-radar spots, and Local Tips offer resident testimonials.
Belocal also mandates that each publication contains a minimum of 28 pages that meet their standards. While the franchisor specifies the number and type of articles, they retain the right to modify these requirements during the term of the Franchise Agreement. This flexibility allows Belocal to adapt content guidelines based on market trends or audience preferences. Prospective franchisees should be aware of these content requirements and the potential for changes, as failure to comply can lead to a Business Improvement Plan and, ultimately, termination of the Franchise Agreement.