Major IT company bringing out a product with the same name as my 2 word generic .com

[seeplain]

Hi,

I have a 2 word generic .com. I have just realised a major IT company is bringing out a product later this year that has the same 2 word generic as its product name.

I know this may be quite fortunate, BUT I am unsure of what to do now??

Does anyone have any ideas on how to approach the IT company and who in the company to approach ??

Or what other startegies could I use to get the maximum out of this situation.

All suggestions would be greatly welcome.

Regards,

 

[MJ]

It honestly depends on the name in this case. Without knowing the name or type of item it is, its all up in the air.

If you are just sitting on your name, I'd suggest start developing it now. Also many products launch as new names, like windows Longhorn, etc.

 

[xXDanteXx]

Whatever you do, just make sure you dont contact them. Let them contact you. In which case you will be in a higher position to negotiate.

Also if it is currently parked anywhere or has ads relating or competing to their product, remove it.

 

[~ The 34 Year Buzz!!]

...If you are just sitting on your name, I'd suggest start developing it now....

Good advice.
You could use sub-folders for several different "quick and easy" sites

/my
/new
/sites

(All unrelated to the new product)

Then try using the main url for a 'portal' which can always be changed later.

 

[seeplain]

Thanks for the advice. The domain currently has nothing on it...I think i will put up a simple holding page with some contact details.

Incidentally does anyone know where i would stand legally. and how can i check if they have registered the trademark..??

 

[brandukraine]

Well, as long as you don't try to extort them money for your domain, you should be safe. If you approach them and try to sell it to them... IANAL, but I think you're busted.

 

[HuntingMoon]

it's reverse hijacking if they try to take it from you and you are not infringing their future product/service. you did not acquire the name with the intent to infringe since you acquired it before their launch.