<b>Today's term: category exclusivity</b>

<b>Today's term: category exclusivity</b>

The scariest word in a contract isn't "exclusive" by itself. It's the word right next to it.

<b>What it is</b> — exclusivity stops you working with competitors. But "competitor" can mean one brand, or a whole category.

<b>Why it matters</b> — "no other running shoe brands" blocks one rival. "No footwear, athletic apparel, or fitness brands" can freeze half your income.

<b>Simple example</b> — a $500 deal that locks you out of an entire category for 6 months might cost you $2,000 in deals you can't take.

<b>Your move</b> — ask: "Can we name the 3 specific competitors instead of the whole category?" Narrow beats broad, every time.