Frequently Asked Questions

What is a merchandise license and how does it work?

A merchandise license is a legal agreement that permits one party to utilize the copyrighted material of another party for commercial purposes. This copyrighted material can be used on merchandise like clothing, posters, or any other sellable product. In return, the copyright holder receives compensation, often a percentage of total sales. The agreement also outlines the duration of validity and the merchandise that can be used. The merchandise license contract includes several clauses. The Licensed Products Clause details the merchandise to be licensed, including its materials, colors, and dimensions. The Grant of Rights Clause gives the licensee the right to make, advertise, distribute, and sell the merchandised products. The Sublicense Clause allows a licensee to license the rights to another company, often for merchandising products in foreign markets. The Reservation of Rights Clause states that if a specific right is not granted, then that right has been retained by the licensor.