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BGonline.org Forums
Taki Board Copy
Posted By: Michael Petch In Response To: Taki Board Copy (Rich Munitz)
Date: Wednesday, 16 September 2009, at 7:35 p.m.
I agree with Rich and I;ll add my 2 cents. I've been reading this thread and the original one last month with interest. I don't know Taki nor do I know the people who produce the clones. But in business what might consider legally correct doesn't always mean its morally right.
As a fair business owner, had I decided to take major ideas from an existing board like the Taki and make improvements I would have approached Taki and said "here is what I'd like to do, and I'd like to sell these in the European Market". If Taki was warm to the idea I would arrange a royalty structure to compensate him for the brand recognition and basic design/style, and would consider a non compete clause in certain markets.
In the thread about the Taki board auction Chiva said this:
"I have perfect copies of the Taki boards that I sell for $1300. The playing surface is even better and lasts forever. Check it out at: www.fmgammon.com "
I never commented on this but I thought this was very brave. It was clear he wanted people to identify with the Brand recognition of the Taki to sell the cheaper knock off. I question Chiva's real intent regarding the Taki brand _ I read it as "I want to capitalize on the Taki name by selling you a copy of the TAKI"
One a side note. You can win a copyright or trademark infringement without having patents, copyrights, and trademarks - its just a lot more difficult, but not impossible.
If I ever found myself in the position where I had a choice to pay a premium for a Taki board or buy the clone (that might be better) I wouldn't hesitate to buy the Taki. One of the advantages of the Taki is that it IS the original.
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