Most gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores in Detroit are owned by Arab Americans. As the 2010 United States Census tells us, Detroit’s population is almost 83 percent African American, higher than any other major American city.  There is no doubt that Arab American entrepreneurs have contributed to the economy of the city by opening up in businesses in areas that most prospective businesspeople would simply stay away from.  

In fact, until recently, no big-name grocery store chains would even open up within the city limits of Detroit (Whole Foods celebrated a much touted grand opening in Detroit’s Midtown neighborhood in June 2013). Despite deep Arab American involvement in the small business economy of Detroit, for too long, the relationship between Arab American store owners and their African American customers has been defined by tension, mistrust, and suspicion.

In this relationship, of course, no party is innocent.  While customers should be expected to exhibit respect when entering any establishment, store owners frequently have a greater responsibility to create an environment that engenders trust, pride, and mutual respect.

But in a city where violent crime rates are five times the national average, how can a business owner create such an atmosphere?  We have all heard of the tragic stories of Arab American businesspeople and employees being gunned down.  And nothing excuses such action.  However, Arab American business owners can do more inside their four walls to defeat the violent forces of crime that are all too prevalent in the neighborhoods they do business in.

All too often, employees are placed in tense conditions without any training.  Arab American entrepreneurs should do more to train prospective employees about the communities and clientele they will be servicing.  This means requiring employees to treat all customers with respect.  Many times, although it might sound cliché, a smile and courteous treatment can diffuse a situation before it ever reaches a level of discomfort. 

We Arab Americans, especially here in Dearborn, routinely ask corporations that do business in our community to give back by getting involved in our organizations and neighborhoods.  We have been largely successful in this regard, and as a result, our relationship with these companies has become more respectful and equal-footed.  As we demand this from those who business in our community, Arab American store owners should get deeply involved in the neighborhoods they conduct business in.  This could be achieved by getting involved in neighborhood watch organizations, local churches, athletic leagues, and local school groups.

Also, sometimes, because they exist in an environment with high crime rates, many business owners in Detroit employ shady business practices, including buying and selling stolen merchandise and committing fraud.  This type of behavior can create a sort of “no holds barred” atmosphere, all at the expense of a respectful relationship with customers.

Finally, Detroit is transforming quickly.  More larger grocery chains may follow Whole Foods’ lead and open in the city.  This will mean stringent competition, something that Arab American businesspeople in the city have not had to endure for some time.  Creating customer loyalty would be in everyone’s interests in the face of this inevitable change.

Arab American businesspeople remained in Detroit during the harshest times, but they should not take their presence in the changing city for granted. Business owners should employ the above practices, not only because it is good business, but also because it is the right thing to do.