Green Line also began to acquire some of its independent competitors.

Under the plan, the subsidiaries would have to deal with the parent company on the same terms as would completely independent competitors.

He said big oil companies had pressured lenders, hoping to keep a tight lock on the market by blocking independent competitors.

It will ensure that Northwest and Continental remain independent competitors.

Critics claimed this was an unfair attempt to drive out small, independent competitors, who could not afford to pay inflated prices for premium real estate.

As a result, when chain properties put the squeeze on their independent and older competitors, they put the squeeze on kitsch.

Many still independent competitors in the organic trade are keeping pace.

He added, "This transaction accomplishes these goals, preserving the company's outstanding statewide market franchise and insuring our position as a major independent and financially strong competitor."

In the general election, he defeated his two independent competitors to earn a full term as mayor.

Divestiture would produce truly independent competitors.