Degrading competitors as a means of promotion

Discussion in 'Legal Issues' started by Skribblez, Apr 20, 2006.

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  1. #1
    I'm not sure if "Degrading" is the right term, but basically, when I promote my site - Webmaster Trades - I'm going to be promoting it as "The FREE version of SitePoint's marketplace" and in my ads, I will be mentioning stuff like "Never pay $9.95 to sell a site again!" :)

    I'm going to be promoting in as many webmaster forums as I can, but before I do so, I'd just like to know, are there any legal issues involved in this method of promotion? (Degrading other competing websites)

    If you're all up for a free version of SitePoint's marketplace, please feel free to join.. hehe ;)

    Thanks in advance.. :)
     
    Skribblez, Apr 20, 2006 IP
  2. BryceW

    BryceW Active Member

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    #2
    I dont think you can specifically point out Sitepoint by saying "The free version of sitepoints marketplace" however I believe you could say "Never pay $9.95 to sell a site again" because it doesnt target them but most people here know what you are talking about anyway.

    There are other ways to promote your brand over another. Take a tip from Pepsi's slogans and how they try to take away from Coke.

    Pepsi:
    1939-1950: Twice As Much For A Nickel Too (implying twice more than coke)
    1967-1969: Taste That Beats The Others Cold
    1984-now: Pepsi, The Choice Of A New Generation (the choice over Coke perhaps?)

    You = Pepsi
    Sitepoint = Coke

    At no point in time did they specifically mention Coke, just that "other cola drink". I recommend you just imply sitepoint but never actually mention the name.
     
    BryceW, Apr 20, 2006 IP
  3. browntwn

    browntwn Illustrious Member

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    #3
    You need to be cautious when mentioning a competitor by name.

    However, comparisons are perfectly legal.

    In many ads you will see the phrase, "as compared to" and then the name of the competitors brand.

    You should do a lot of research or consullt with paid legel help before proceeding down that path.
     
    browntwn, Apr 21, 2006 IP
  4. Skribblez

    Skribblez Notable Member

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    #4
    I guess I shouldn't mention the thing about "The FREE version of SitePoint's marketplace" but rather imply that it is the free version by mentioning something like "Never pay $9.95 to sell your sites again"

    Thanks for the advice guys! :) I appreciate it
     
    Skribblez, Apr 21, 2006 IP
  5. Notting

    Notting Notable Member

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    #5
    In the UK airlines frequently mention each others names and fairs in their ads.

    Go for it!
    Notting
     
    Notting, Apr 21, 2006 IP
  6. Skribblez

    Skribblez Notable Member

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    #6
    I paid $9.95 to start a thread in SitePoint's Advertise Your Services forum.. :D Let's see what happens.. :D
     
    Skribblez, Apr 21, 2006 IP