They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but in business, it can be a real issue. There are few things as frustrating as discovering that a rival firm is copying your branding and ideas.
When faced with a situation like this, what are your options? Here are a few things to consider.
Challenge the behavior
While you have legal options when a rival firm is copying your branding, it isn’t always necessary to litigate. By simply making your rival aware that you know what they are doing, you could encourage them to stop. If you receive a negative response or no response at all, then you may think about stepping it up legally.
One thing that can be useful in a situation like this is a cease and desist letter. This is a letter sent to the copycat demanding that they cease copying your branding, or you will consider litigation. A more formal warning like this often does the trick, as it shows that you are serious. Of course, if none of the above methods work, then it may be time to explore routes available through the court system.
Keep focussing on what you do well
While copycat behavior is a serious issue, it’s important not to let it stop you from doing what you do well. Some business owners become so consumed by copycat behavior that it impacts the day-to-day running of the company. It is unlikely that your rival can imitate what you do to a high level. If you continue doing what you have been doing, then you should retain your customer base and continue to grow.
When faced with a copycat, it’s best to seek legal guidance. This allows you to remedy the situation while still being able to focus on the daily activities of your company.