Description
Are you an inventor struggling to get your product on store shelves at Home Depot, Lowes, or Walmart? The rules of the game change the moment you cross the border.
In this episode of Invent America TV, we break down the critical differences between the U.S. and Canadian markets with industry expert Michael Miller. With over 20 years of experience launching products like the "Disposal Genie," Michael reveals why the scale of the American market often bankrupts unprepared inventors—and why licensing might be your safest bet.
We also feature two inventors currently navigating these challenges:
Tanya (Sure Grip Kitchen Towels): A manufacturer selling direct-to-consumer who is facing the realities of tariffs and logistics.
Michael Parish: An inventor with a patented interchangeable hat logo system who is looking to license his technology to major apparel brands.
In This Episode:
The "Scale" Problem: Why Canadian inventors often fail to grasp the volume requirements of U.S. big-box retailers.
Licensing vs. Manufacturing: Why handing off the heavy lifting to a licensee can save you from legal and packaging nightmares.
The "Consignment" Trap: Understanding how Walmart actually buys (or doesn't buy) inventory.
Real Inventor Stories: From kitchen gadgets to sports apparel, see how new products are finding their footing.
Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro: Welcome to Invent America 1:57 - Meet Industry Expert Michael Miller 4:06 - "Crossing the Line": The challenges of US/Canada trade 6:59 - How Licensing Agreements Work (Who controls the price?) 11:00 - Inventor Spotlight: Tanya & The Sure Grip Kitchen Towel 19:53 - Inventor Spotlight: Michael Parish & The Interchangeable Hat Logo 28:03 - The Dangers of "Going it Alone" in International Markets 32:33 - Michael Miller’s Advice: Which market should you target first?
About the Show: Invent America is your go-to resource for home-based product innovation. Hosted by Rita, we connect independent inventors with the experts, lawyers, and prototypers who can take you from mind to market.
Featured in this Video:
Sure Grip Kitchen Towels: https://suregripkitchentowels.com/
RPB Law Offices: https://rpblawoffices.com
SearchQuest Patent Search: https://searchquestpatents.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.
#Inventing #ProductLicensing #SmallBusiness #RetailStrategy #InventAmerica #Manufacturing #Entrepreneurship
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