“I want to start up a new business in town which will compete with an existing one. I believe there are enough customers for both of us. Should I talk to the business owner about my intentions before I start?”

That’s the real-world concern from a reader. In small towns, we think about things like this. We don’t want to hurt anyone often because we know them, or we know their family.

I’ve never personally asked anyone when starting a potential competitive business or been asked by anyone (except my sister, but that’s a long story). While some people do get angry about it, I believe competition is a good thing, even in a small town. And I say that from personal experience in business.

I discussed this question with my colleague Deb Brown, a former chamber of commerce director and entrepreneur, to get additional ideas.

Generally, we don’t think it’s necessary to speak