As a small business owner, you know the risks involved in the corporate world. You’ve entered a market with some larger rivals who have much greater resources. However, where they can’t compete with you is in the quality of service and products you offer.
In situations like this, rival firms may be tempted to act unfairly. Outlined below are some examples of unfair competition that you need to look out for.
Disparaging your company
Your rivals know that you have a superior product and service. Instead of thinking about ways to improve their own company, they’ve started obsessing over how to disparage yours. There is no legitimate way to do this, so they’ve started spreading malicious rumors and false claims about the services you offer. They’re claiming that your product is faulty when it isn’t, in an attempt to put consumers off. This could be classified as defamation and it is also an example of unfair competition.
Copycat tactics
The efforts to put your business down haven’t been successful, so your rivals are trying another angle. They’ve seen how effective your branding and marketing have been and they want in on the action. Instead of coming up with their own marketing strategies and branding ideas, they’ve copied you directly. They’re using the same color scheme, logos and wording that your company has used for years. This is unlawful and it is also a form of unfair competition.
The corporate world can be ruthless and it’s important to protect your small business. Having legal guidance on your side will help ensure that your rights are upheld.