[wtm442]

So you are frustrated. There are a lot of morons out there that think they know how to run a business .... by cheating, lying, etc. These morons do not usually stay in business long.

Are there local competitive firms that are doing this and affecting your business?

If yes, you need to concentrate on you marketing/advertising. You also need to promote your best business practice, whether its lowest price, highest technology, fastest delivery, best service, etc.

If no, just keep doing what your doing, and try to improve where ever possible. You can never have enough ammunition to shoot down all the morons.

There is a local ACE hardware store that gives unbelievable service. About 5 years ago, a Home Depot was built within 1/2 mile of this store. I'll bet the small hardware store does 3 times the business that they did 5 years ago.

They have an excessive amount of very knowledgeable people in the store. Within 10 seconds of walking in the door, someone says "Can I help you?"

After your question, you get a knowledgeable answer or a hand off to another employee. And that employee will walk with you all the way to the product he/she recommends. And they will stay with you until all your questions are answered.

I go there first. If they do not have what I need, then I go to Home Depot.