Legal Question in Business Law in Pennsylvania

I work at a fairly popular business and a manager and 2 others from one of our competitors came into our store and started taking pictures of sections of our store and writing down prices of our items. They did not ask if they could do this and they split up so I could not watch all 3 of them. I wanted to know if this was legal so our company could decide whether to further pursue the matter.


Asked on 2/14/11, 2:04 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

You could have told them to stop taking pictures and/or to leave. Alternatively, you might have posted signs forbidding photography or otherwise put them on notice that their conduct was unacceptable. Had you done so, these visitors would have become trespassers. If you didn't do any of those things, I don't think the competitor did anything unlawful. If it happens again, though, your business should assert its rights.

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Answered on 2/14/11, 2:35 pm
Kevin B. Murphy Franchise Foundations, APC

As a Franchise Attorney I basically agree with the other attorney answer. But before you can assert rights next time, you need to take corrective action now, before the next visit. Post the signs mentioned, with appropriate language. Consult with a good business or franchise attorney in your area for specific advice.

Mr. Franchise - Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D.

Franchise Foundations, a Professional Corporation

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Answered on 2/14/11, 3:51 pm


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