Product License/Object Lesson Water Flyers is an innovative water toy and accessory product line consisting of aquatic toys in the form of aerodynamically shaped sea creatures that virtually "fly" horizontally underwater as they rise vertically towards the water's surface. Their ability to travel 30' or more underwater, combined with their directional control, makes them a natural for use in games of skill or in a simple game of "catch". Created by Charles Aurich, the concept was licensed by NewFuniers to Spin Master Toys, on behalf of the inventor. As the old saying goes: “It aint over until the fat lady sings.” We were subsequently notified that “Water Flyers” was dropped from Spin Master Toy’s line, due to problems in engineering, manufacturing, and sales. Needless to say, we were disappointed. However, this is a good object lesson for all of us: Despite a signed License Agreement, the payment of an advance against future royalties, the time & money spent on the product’s creation, development, presentation materials, representation, legal & related patent issues, and continued developmental support, “Water Flyers” is still looking for a home. It’s nobody’s fault. It’s simply the way things go sometimes. Expectations have always been the hardest part of this business. Just keep try and keep in mind that a ‘concept’ is not a true product until it becomes a ‘product’ on the store shelf for consumers to buy. Celebrating a license agreement and the receipt of an ‘advance payment’ check is fine. But the real celebration should always wait for the first ‘royalty’ check... and even then (and this is an old inside toy inventor joke), only after it clears the bank. We continue to search for a new manufacturer for “Water Flyers” . Hopefully, one day, you’ll find it on the toy shelf of a major retailer. |