Do 'Alternative Channels of Distribution' for a Dryer Vent Squad franchise include online sales?
Dryer_Vent_Squad Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
"Digital Media" refers to and means any interactive or static electronic document, application or media that is connected to and/or in a network of computers, servers and/or other devices linked by communications software, part of the world wide web (including, but not limited to websites), linked by the internet or part of a web based application, software application, smart phone based application or social media platform including, but not limited to social media platforms and applications such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, SnapChat, YouTube, and including world wide web and internet based directories and local directories that refers, references, identifies, reviews, promotes and/or relates, in any way, to Dryer Vent Squad Businesses, the Franchised Business, the Licensed Marks, the System and/or Franchisor. Digital Media further includes the System Website, web pages and, if applicable, website subdomains (including those related to, associated with and/or a part of the System Website) associated with and/or related to the Franchised Business and all web pages, blog posts, videos, articles, social media accounts and pages, website directory pages, information, sub-domains and all other media and/or publications relating to the System that is displayed and/or transmitted digitally.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 51–207)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to the 2024 Dryer Vent Squad FDD, the definition of "Digital Media" includes various online platforms. Specifically, it refers to any interactive or static electronic document, application, or media connected to a network of computers, servers, or other devices. This includes elements of the world wide web such as websites, internet-linked applications, software applications, smartphone-based applications, and social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, SnapChat, and YouTube. It also encompasses internet-based directories and local directories that relate to Dryer Vent Squad Businesses.
Furthermore, the definition extends to the System Website, web pages, and website subdomains associated with the Franchised Business. This includes all web pages, blog posts, videos, articles, social media accounts and pages, website directory pages, and other media or publications relating to the Dryer Vent Squad system that are displayed or transmitted digitally.
Given this broad definition of "Digital Media" to include websites, social media, and other online platforms, Dryer Vent Squad franchisees are expected to utilize these channels for marketing and communication purposes. However, the FDD does not explicitly state whether online sales are a component of the Dryer Vent Squad business model. A prospective franchisee should seek clarification from the franchisor regarding the availability and requirements for online sales within the Dryer Vent Squad franchise system.