" No business can stay in business without customers. How you treat – or mistreat – them determines how long your doors stay open. "
- Harvey Mackay

The quote emphasizes a fundamental truth about business: without customers, no enterprise can sustain itself. It highlights that the way businesses interact with their clients directly impacts their longevity and success. When companies treat their customers well, they build a loyal customer base that sustains them over time; conversely, mistreating or neglecting customers can lead to the eventual failure of the business.

On a deeper level, this quote underscores the importance of understanding that every interaction a company has with its clients is an investment in its future. Treating customers poorly not only drives away current patrons but also deters potential new ones through negative word-of-mouth and online reviews. Conversely, providing excellent service can turn one-time buyers into lifelong advocates for the brand. This quote also serves as a reminder that customer satisfaction should be at the core of every business strategy, influencing everything from product development to marketing efforts.

The quote is attributed to Harvey Mackay, an American businessman known for his expertise in sales and networking strategies. As the founder and chairman of H. Mackay Company Inc., he has built a successful career on the principles of customer-centricity and relationship-building. Mackay's insights have been widely shared through various platforms, including his syndicated column "Winning at the Top" and numerous books on business success and sales techniques.