But rival stores and a German consumer protection agency said it violated laws requiring that discounts be offered to all customers equally.

Kohl's executives said they were motivated in part by the changes at rival stores, which have undergone a series of mergers and consolidations recently.

One executive from a rival store doubted that Vons could fulfill its pricing pledge.

But that kind of cost-cutting often makes it increasingly difficult to have distinctive merchandise that gives them an edge over rival stores.

They said Bradlees could not hold out against rival stores and a slowdown in consumer spending.

The company said it was offering a more flexible system for developers than rival stores.

A rival store opens down the street, threatening customer flow.

Like other retailers, Mr. Becker keeps an eye on rival stores in his vicinity.

The rival store refused to take back the merchandise, saying it was used.

Later, Mary Jane's mother is trying to get some customers in her store while competing with a popular rival store across the street.