When pot shops are new kids on the block, other businesses aren't always too happy

The booming new marijuana industry has an image problem. Not with government officials and the public — but with other businesses.

New marijuana retailers and growers face suspicion from their commercial neighbors, from smell complaints to crime fears. The conflict is especially strong in Denver, which now has 200 pot shops.

The strife went public last week along a once-forlorn stretch of highway south of downtown Denver now sprinkled with marijuana shops.

About two dozen pot shops had a marketing idea for the upcoming holiday shopping season. But some of their neighboring stores are fighting the suggestion to call their area "The Green Mile."

The clash is also playing out in other communities that allow marijuana businesses.