Domain name too similiar to mrechants name?

[CLB]

Newbie question here:

One of my domains is exactly the same as a potential merchant's name except the extension is .cc

Example:

The merchant is sorta like Example***Planet.com

My domain is sorta like Example***Planet.cc

So basically its a keyword attached to a location keyword.

I figure I could drive search engine traffic looking for that name to the merchants site via the affiliate banners.

Will I get a good ole cease and desist or will the merchant say great idea, let's partner up?

My content subject matter is the same as the merchants (of course).

What do you think? :greenconfused:

[domainah]

i think you are trying to set up a direct TM violation there, because you are trying to benefit directly from the brand the other company built. One referral from your site and they will know that you have the .cc (which should not get any traffic anyway without development)..better would be to develop a real site that uses keywords related to their product and then have ads/banners etc.

[TcDa]

Check to see if the merchant themselves have an affiliate/referral program. If so, they might actually appreciate a well-crafted, direct-referral site, and PAY you instead of SUING you. I speak from experience on this as I have a similar relationship with an online clothing vendor.

[CLB]

Thanks for the insight.

This merchant does have an affiliate program that I'd like to join.

I'm just wondering if my domain name will turn them off.

BTW, the name of the company is not an original brand name like Google or Coke.

It's two dictionary words stuck together.

[TcDa]

Although it's not always the case, inclusion into an affiliate program is often automatic, with no real follow-ups unless there's a complaint or random audit. Many merchants simply feel that the more peddlers they have out there the better. Plus, it's not like your diverting tons-o-traffic with your .cc anyway.

IMHO, build it, and if they *****, pull it.