Exclusivity is a promise not to work with competing brands, usually in a category, for a period, sometimes on named platforms.
Why brands want it
They do not want your next post to be a rival serum. Fair. It also blocks other fees you could have taken. That blocked income is the price of the clause.
What to pin down
- Category definition (skincare vs all beauty vs one ingredient)
- Duration (campaign weeks vs six months after go-live)
- Platforms
- Whether existing affiliates are grandfathered
Do not accept a broad “no other brands” restriction without an end date. Ask the brand to define a specific category, competitor set and duration, or remove the clause.
Scenario
Maya has a Nova facewash deal with 60-day skincare exclusivity. A hair-oil brand is probably fine. Another cleanser is not. If Nova wanted all of beauty, they should have paid for all of beauty.