Social Indoor: Transforming Digital Advertising in Captive Spaces

Social Indoor is an innovative digital advertising franchise that focuses on installing high-definition digital screens in busy indoor locations such as bars, restaurants, gyms, and nightclubs. Established in 2018 by industry expert Tony Jacobson, the company is based in Minnetonka, Minnesota.

In 2019, Social Indoor launched its franchising program to bring its cutting-edge advertising approach to more communities nationwide. Franchise owners play a key role in expanding local indoor advertising networks, handling everything from venue selection and monitor installation to selling ad space to local businesses.

What makes Social Indoor stand out in the marketplace is its emphasis on reaching audiences in settings where they are most attentive. Unlike conventional ad platforms, Social Indoor’s screens are placed in environments where ads are harder to ignore, giving advertisers a stronger chance of engaging their desired audience.

Training

Social Indoor provides a well-structured training program to prepare its franchisees for operating their businesses. Here’s a breakdown of the training provided by the franchisor:

1. Initial Training Program
   Franchisees and up to three team members attend a two-day initial training at the Social Indoor headquarters in Minnetonka, Minnesota, or via Zoom. This includes classroom and hands-on instruction in areas like ad sales, creative services, display services, monitor installations, and national sales.
2. Ongoing Training and Support
   After the initial program, the franchisee receives weekly continuing training for 90–120 days, a field visit with a venue specialist, and additional one-on-one software training. This ongoing support helps ensure that the franchisee becomes proficient in operating the business successfully.
3. Mandatory Additional Training
   Franchisees may be required to attend up to two additional training sessions per year, with each session capped at a $500 registration fee per person (excluding travel and living costs). These sessions help keep the franchisee updated on the latest operational standards and practices.
4. Annual Convention
   Social Indoor may hold an annual convention that franchisees are encouraged or required to attend. The event serves to build community, share success stories, and provide further operational insights.

Territory Protection

Social Indoor grants its franchisees the right to operate within a specific Designated Territory, classified as metro, micro, or rural based on U.S. census data. While franchisees can solicit and service clients within this territory, they may not market or sell outside it without written permission from the franchisor. However, Social Indoor retains the right to manage national accounts across all territories and may allow other franchisees or the corporate office to service clients within a territory under certain conditions.

Even though Social Indoor limits franchisee activity to their own territory, it does not offer full exclusivity or absolute protection. The franchisor and its affiliates reserve the right to sell products or services under other brands or marks, and franchisees may face competition from national sales programs. Additionally, failure to meet minimum performance standards could result in a reduction of territory or even termination of the franchise agreement.