Q: I own a successful printing shop in a midsize town and have built a loyal customer base. I would like to open another shop near a mall, but am afraid of the risk. I have good credit but don’t think a new place could run as well as this one, as I am always here. Help! — Need to Know If I Should Grow

A: One of the most common mistakes a business makes is to expand. But, that’s not to say it shouldn’t be done. I don’t know your age, and that’s a big factor. For example, if you are in your 50s, do you really want the stress of another business? Also, have you exhausted all the ways to make more income in your present location? What if you rented some space in your shop to another client, one who handles office supplies or mails letters or packages. Have you considered delivering orders to all parts of the city so another location isn’t necessary? A delivery van is much cheaper than a new building. Think about maximizing what you have before you branch out.

Dr. George R. Abraham is a native of Vicksburg and a former longtime educator, business manager and consultant. He is an author who hosts “The Dr. George Show” on 1490 AM at the Klondyke in Vicksburg from 9 until 10 a.m. each Tuesday.. E-mail him at georgeabraham@aol.com