Stroll: Redefining Community Connection Through Hyper-Local Publications

Stroll is a well-established franchise that specializes in hyper-local, community-focused publications designed to connect residents with local businesses. Each Stroll magazine is uniquely tailored to a specific neighborhood, featuring content that resonates with its readers and highlights the stories, people, and enterprises that define the community.

Founded in 2004, Stroll has carved out a leadership position in the niche marketing space by combining personalized print publications with a grassroots approach to community engagement.

Headquartered in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, the company has developed a proven model that emphasizes authenticity and relevance on a neighborhood-by-neighborhood basis. Since beginning its franchising efforts in 2005, Stroll has empowered entrepreneurs across the country to launch their own neighborhood magazines under the Stroll brand.

What sets Stroll apart is its unwavering focus on fostering meaningful connections. By supporting small businesses and celebrating the unique character of each neighborhood, Stroll has earned a reputation as a trusted local resource that brings communities closer together.

Training

Stroll provides franchisees with multiple training programs to prepare them for successful operation of their franchised business:

1. Initial Franchise Training Program: Franchisees must attend and satisfactorily complete an initial training program within 60 days of signing the Franchise Agreement. This training covers topics like sales and marketing, content submission, customer service, and more. It typically includes 20-22 hours of instruction, is conducted virtually, and is provided at no charge, although franchisees must cover their own expenses such as internet access or equipment.
2. Virtual Field Training: After the initial classroom segment, franchisees are required to participate in 8 hours of virtual field training. This enhances hands-on understanding of operational tasks.
3. Ongoing Support and Materials: After the initial program, franchisees receive teleconference and online self-guided training materials to support their ramp-up phase. These are intended to aid them through the print and launch process.
4. Additional or Remedial Training: Stroll may require franchisees (or provide at the franchisee's request) to attend further training programs. These could be conducted in-person, virtually, or via other electronic means, and may incur fees based on Franchisor’s or third-party provider rates.
5. Manager Training: If a franchisee delegates operational responsibilities to a manager, that manager must also complete the standard training program and sign confidentiality and non-solicitation agreements. This ensures managerial staff are aligned with the franchise's operational standards.

Territory Protection

Stroll does not grant exclusive territory protection to its franchisees. When a franchisee signs the Franchise Agreement, they are provided a non-exclusive right and license to operate within a specified geographic area, referred to as the "Territory." This means franchisees may still face competition from other Stroll franchisees, the company’s own operations, or other channels and brands under the franchisor’s control.

Additionally, Stroll does not allow franchisees to relocate their designated Territory once it has been established. The Territory is fixed and outlined in Attachment B of the Franchise Agreement. Because the rights are non-exclusive, franchisees should be prepared for the possibility of overlapping markets and must work to build strong local relationships to differentiate themselves.