Readers Respond: Competitive forces

It has been said many times in retail and other pursuits that “competition makes us better.” But still, when it opens up across the street or around the corner, there may be a feeling of anxiety in the heart of the entrenched retailer.

Proximity of competition is a major consideration. That’s HBSDealer’s poll question asked “When was the last time that a competing store or dealer opened in your business area?”

Here are the results of the poll:

• Three or more years, 45%
• Within the last three years, 22%
• Within the last year, 15%
• Within the last six months, 12%
• Within the last month, 6%.

The results above are based on the participation of 80 readers.

You can continue to submit your answer to the poll on the right side of this page (or scroll down your mobile device). Also, HBSDealer encourages your extended comments; just click on the comment link below to tell us more.