Unfair Competition: The Un-American Way to Do Business

Generally, when entering into the world of business most of us are aware of the competition between companies. A well-known and often-seen example of competition is Burger King, McDonalds, and Wendy’s all occupying the same area. Many people think to themselves, as do I, how can these companies occupy the same area and co-exist peacefully? The answer: unfair competition laws implemented by each state. These laws have been created to protect companies from the damaging effects that unfair competition practices can have on business.

What constitutes unfair competition can vary with each cause of action. One example involves tortious interference with a contract or a potential contract between a competitor and a provider of goods. Other examples include infringement, false advertising, misappropriation, and the list goes on.

While unfair competition does vary, common sense provides a person and/or business with the obvious rights and wrongs when dealing with competitors. For example, it is considered unfair to block the entranceway to a competitors shop or somehow prevent the competitor from receiving necessary supplies. Threatening competitors or intimidating and coercing customers can also be considered unfair competition. This means that when customers come into the store and you tell them that you will give them 15% off their next purchase if they do not shop at your competitor, this can be considered unfair competition.

Our economy promotes competition to further business and encourage those to create new and creative products. Our economy, though, does NOT promote the notion of competing unfairly to get ahead in your market.

If you believe that your competitor is participating in unfair activities, your may need a Long Island Business Law Attorney.