Abstract: Methods for producing decorative laminate composites are described. The method includes the owner of intellectual property covering the use and manufacture of paint film technology selectively licensing the technology to various automotive component suppliers and manufacturers. In this manner, the total number of suppliers in the supply chain can be either reduced and/or more carefully controlled, thus leading to increased levels of finished component quality control. By way of a non-limiting example, a single licensee/supplier can produce the finished component.