What would you do if an ex-employee was opening up the same business 2 miles from you?

I own a coffee shop/bar that is opened 24hours. I just found out that an ex-employee is opening up the same business less then 2 miles from my business. The same menu, coffee, chai, even the same paint color on the walls. The only difference is the name. What would you do?

Unfortunately, unless that employee signed a non-disclosure agreement, you can't do much.

Make sure your product is superior. Consider finding a marketing consultant to help you make sure everybody wants to go to your place, not the other one.

DO NOT TRASH-TALK THE NEW PLACE. That will turn people off faster than anything. If business places a negative ad, I will usually refuse to patronize that business.

BUrn the place down!

Unless they signed a non-compete contract, then you probably can't do much.

FYI, I live in a town that's only two miles long. We have three Starbucks, and at least three other high-end coffee shops. My guess is that you'll hardly notice any change in your business. Best of luck!

I would want to burn the damn place down too. But no seriously sounds like you need a makeover and sounds like your ex employee plays dirty. Be careful & good luck!!

I agree with "abfabmom1." I think this issue is due more to the feeling of betrayal than any impact it will have on your business. Unless you live a very rural area, a collection of similar businesses draws more customers to all of them. Get over it and concentrate on improving your own business.

WOW! That's a little too close for comfort. But, it could work to your advantage. Make some changing to your store, enhancing it, bringing in new ideas. New beverages on the menu. Turn up the advertising a bit. Your ex- employee could have gave you a Little breathing space, but hey it happened. Be very aware that your ex employee have been watching you & your business. Thinking of all types of ways to improve it.So you must step it up. Welcome the entire ordeal, & focus on enhancements to be made.

Small price...

Just let it go!

There's nothing you can do except make our shop a better experience for your customers. Be friendlier, be cleaner, be faster, be fresher, be tastier, offer more for less