How can I go about making an anime clothing business? Open to any advice your willing to give
I plan to start a clothing business and I'm trying to get licensing, through Viz Media, in order to sell anime clothing. I believe I might be able to do it on their website using this link: https://www.viz.com/company/licensing_inquiry_form
(If i need to go through a different method please let me know)
I'm wondering what the best route would be to go about doing this because I don't have an established business yet because even if I did I wouldn't be able to sell anything because it would be copyright infringement. Is there anything I should specifically focus on or say in order to increase my chances of getting a license? Would I write it in the "Category(s) to License" text box in the link above? If not do I need to send a formal email or do i need to approach in a different such as creating a different clothing business? If i did it wouldn't be anime related since i would need a license beforehand and because of that do you think they would give me a license still?
Your licensing opportunities may be limited if you're not already an established retailer with a certain volume of sales. Certain licensing agencies, like the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) for sports apparel, have minimum volume thresholds before approving licenses.
In your case, their website clearly states their licenses are limited to maintain quality and they're looking for established businesses. You could inquire, but you're not likely to see much traction.
You should consider alternatives like original anime artwork directly from the artist where you can work out something directly. You could also explore non-infringing designs from these anime universes as well.
Zala Law LLC | Your Mind Is Your Property.™
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This is a highly specialized area of law and usually requires show and tell on behalf of a client not just words. If you're interested in making money, I suggest you create a good relationship with a lawyer who is experience and highly rated who responds to these kinds of questions on AVVO.
This is an informational. There is nothing like real advice from a lawyer--this...
A specific business decision for you turns on the answer to this very fact-specific question. This is the sort of thing you pay an attorney for their professional advice and counsel upon which you can rely.
My advice is: hire an attorney. Don't turn to free fora such as Avvo for a definitive answer.
