A weird example of a secret formula "toll position"...

[Dien Rice]

If you want to live a good life... and not run yourself ragged, or get stuck on a treadmill... you need to own at least one toll position.

A toll position is something where, if someone wants the product, they have to go through you. There is no other way to do it!

There are many types of toll positions... copyrights, patents, trademarks, exclusive licensing deals... those are a few.

Harvey Brody is the world expert in toll positions... I'm very lucky to have learned directly from him...

Another type of toll position is the "secret formula." Think of the secret formula for Coca Cola, a unique BBQ sauce, or even for WD-40 lubricant...

These products are not patented - to patent them, they would have to reveal the formula. Instead, the formula is a trade secret.

It can be difficult if not impossible to "reverse engineer" it. That's because, although you might be able to do a chemical analysis, that still doesn't reveal the process they go through to create the product. It would be like having the basic raw ingredients for a recipe, without knowing the step-by-step instructions of the recipe itself. If you don't put it together the right way, the final product won't be the same!

I just came across an article, revealing another "secret formula" toll position - one I would never have expected!

This is the secret formula in making cymbals! That's right, the musical instrument...

One company controls 65% of the world cymbal market!

Here's the part of the article which talks about the secret formula, that helps them to control the majority of the cymbal market!

"So what are the Zildjians' secrets to staying in business for nearly four centuries?

"First off, there's the literal secret - the special alloy of copper, tin, and silver that gives the Zildjian cymbals their world-renowned sound. Sisters Craigie and Debbie Zildjian now lead the family business

"It's a proprietary mix that Avedis Zildjian brought over with him from Turkey and handed down from generation to generation of Zildjians - and only to Zildjians.

"At the Norwell factory, there's a special room that only a few people have access to, where the alloy is mixed by a trusted handful - even the company's head of research and development doesn't know what goes into the mix.

"Craigie and Debbie weren't trusted with the secret until they were in their mid-30s and deemed sufficiently committed to the company - and they, too, have decided to keep the secret from their daughters for a few more years."

Well, who'd a thunk it, huh? That the world market for cymbals is controlled by a secret formula toll position!

Here's the full article...

Trade secrets of oldest family firm in US
http://www.bbc.com/news/business-18261045

Do you have a toll position yet? Are you working on one?

If you want a happy, stress-free life... it's very important that you get at least one toll position! And get your toll position working for you...

If you have any questions, let me know...

Best wishes,

Dien