Legal Question in Business Law in California

I've developed a new soft drink-how do I protect my interests?

Hello,

I realize I'm going to ultimately require an attorney if I'm successful in this venture-but some gratis advice is appreciated. I've noticed recently that many soft drinks are attempting to extend their brands by adding flavors, i.e. Vanilla Coke, Mountain Dew Code Red, etc. I've tested an existing syrup beverage product and combined it with an existing soft drink to come up with a pretty viable product, I believe. In the event this soft drink firm has interest and asks me to send them this syrup- do I disclose this is an existing product? Do I list the ingredients?

Basically, how do I protect myself while selling them this idea, maximizing my potential gain and not getting manipulated by a multinational ?

Thanks


Asked on 7/02/02, 1:10 am

3 Answers from Attorneys
Joel Selik www.SelikLaw.com

Re: I've developed a new soft drink-how do I protect my interests?

Most large companies will send you a form that is worded to protect you. The best way is to properly approach the company.

Joel Selik

www.4thelaw.com

800-894-2889

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Answered on 7/02/02, 6:55 am
Amy Ghosh Law Offices of Amy Ghosh

Re: I've developed a new soft drink-how do I protect my interests?

Do not disclose ingredients !!! You can contact me directly!!!

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Answered on 7/07/02, 12:22 am
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Re: I've developed a new soft drink-how do I protect my interests?

I would expect the manufacturers of any proprietary, branded products that you plan to blend would go to great lengths to put the kibosh on your idea. For example, if one of your ingredients were to be Coca-Cola syrup, I would expect Coca-Cola to tell you that you may not add to or blend with its syrup any other product or item not specifically authorized by the Coca-Cola company in advance. I would expect you would be sued and that your chances of losing would be fairly high. So, no harm in approaching the makers of the proposed ingredients, but don't get your hopes up too high. They really, really don't like people making derivative products.

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Answered on 7/02/02, 12:57 pm


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