When businesses and communities interact, it's not uncommon for friction to arise. Businesses can feel like they’re under siege from community demands, while residents may see companies as disruptive forces in their lives. These tensions often arise from a lack of understanding of each other’s needs and perspectives. However, businesses and communities don’t need to stand on opposite sides of the fence. In fact, when they collaborate, both can benefit immensely. It’s time to recognise that communities are not the enemy — they are key to building a sustainable, long-term foundation for business success.