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Q: What is a 'license',
and what does a UNI License provide me with?
A: Our licenses give
you the right to manufacture, sell or use the acclaimed UNI
products and trademarks in an exclusive territory, as well
as providing you with our extensive technology and know-how.
Q: Besides this,
what other services do I receive from you?
A: We offer direct
support in marketing, sales and installation. You will have unrestricted
access to our ongoing research and development, technical consultation
and seminars, software training, and worldwide networking. Furthermore,
you frequently receive the latest UNI-related industry news.
Q: Do I have to
pay extra for this?
A: No, as a Licensee
these services are free to you.
Q: What is the UNI-GROUP
U.S.A.?
A: UNI-GROUP
U.S.A. is the oldest and most influential group of paver
producers in North America. Every UNI Licensee is a member of
the UNI-GROUP U.S.A. by default. The
yearly budget and fee structure is set autonomously by the group
and depends on individual territory and market potential. Fees
are currently starting at approximately US $2500.
Q: What is the policy
concerning group advertising?
A: North American
marketing and advertising, as well as the research of UNI products,
is done together with the UNI-GROUP U.S.A.
Q: What requirements
do I have to meet as the licensee?
A: Although we do
not impose any special requirements, local experience in manufacturing
blocks, bricks, pavers or precast products is beneficial. During
the term of the agreement, it is expected that you are able to
supply your market with sufficient quantity and quality of UNI
or other licensed products.
Q: There is already
a UNI Licensee close to me.
Can I still become a UNI member?
A: Every UNI Licensee
has an exclusive territory, meaning no one else will be licensed
for the same products. However, the existing UNI partner can
choose to cooperate with any manufacturer and establish a so
called "Sub-License".
Q: I understand
there is already an exclusive UNI Licensee in my area, but can
I get a license on any of your other products?
A: Yes, we also offer
a wide variety of innovative paving products
and retaining walls, independent of the UNI line.
Q: How long has
F. von Langsdorff been in the business and what is their track
record in the paver industry?
A: We have been in
the licensing business in Germany since 1965 and in North America
since 1973. Our track record is exceptional and our reputation
is renowned worldwide. We are known as the foremost licensor
in the industry. In addition, we are a Charter member of the
ICPI and active members of the ASTM, CMMA, ECCO, IECA and various
other industry related groups and associations worldwide. We
are involved in all important international paver conferences
and workshops on a regular basis.
Q: How many Licensees
exist already?
A: Currently over
40 manufacturing plants are licensed in North America and more
than 160 worldwide. All are influential leaders in the industry
and the majority are long standing partners in the UNI
Organization.
Q: What innovations
have been introduced over the years by your company? Is there
more to come?
A: F. von Langsdorff
Licensing has always been the leader in new paver ideas. We had
the first fully interlocking paving stone that was patented,
the first paver shape developed for mechanical installation,
the first patented ecological product, the only fully interlocking
paving stone specifically designed for gas and refueling stations,
and the list goes on. We are constantly working ahead of trends
and our unmatched innovations have always helped our licensees
to retain their market dominance.
Q: I am already with
another licensor, is that a problem?
A: No, we do not restrict
you in any way from keeping an existing license or to take on
additional products. In fact, we encourage you compare us to
anyone in the industry. By monitoring the situation, you will
easily understand the reason for our success.
Q: What happens
when a patent expires?
A: The duration of
a utility patent is about 18-20 years, after that it becomes
public domain. However, the Trademark associated with its shape
will remain exclusive to our Licensees. We also have numerous
new patents available to choose from, and more are on our drawing
board. There is no lack of ideas for the foreseeable future.
Q: What happens
if someone copies the paving stone I licensed from you?
A: We are committed
to protect the interests of our Licensees to the fullest degree.
A good example of our determination can be seen in the successful
defense of our renowned UNI-DECOR
patent against infringers.
Q: What is the common
duration of your license?
A: We offer a 3 to
7 year term, with automatic renewal.
Q: What would be
my territory?
A: A feasible area
has a radius of ca. 150 miles around your plant.
Q: How much are
the royalties?
A: The initial, or
sign-up fee, is dependent on your territory. After that, a yearly
royalty between 1% to 5 % of net sales of any licensed products
- or minimum fee between $4,000 and $10,000 - whichever of the
two amounts is higher.
Q: What patents
and trademarks are covered?
A: Each patent and
trademark licensed to you is clearly documented in the agreement.
You also have the first right of refusal to adopt any of the
upcoming products we offer.
Q: What is the benefit
of having a patented paving stone system? Why should I not just
seek out non-proprietary pavers?
A: Patented products
are designed to have specific functional characteristics. These
have to be technically advantageous and innovative. Proprietary
products also enable our licensees to develop the market for
their sole benefit. No competitor can offer these shapes. Generic
pavers offer no technical benefits and have to be sold in a much
more competitive manner. You not only have the better product;
you are also the only one selling it.
Q: Yes. I am interested.
What is my next step?
A: Contact us by e-mail
harald@langsdorff.com
or find our exact address .
We will be happy to discuss any further details with you.
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