Utilize the input text as a context reference, choose the right relationship between Costco and retail from the options. Options: product/material produced, manufacturer, distributed by, industry, position held, original broadcaster, owned by, founded by, distribution format, headquarters location, stock exchange, currency, parent organization, chief executive officer, director/manager, owner of, operator, member of, employer, chairperson, platform, subsidiary, legal form, publisher, developer, brand, business division, location of formation, creator.

By comparing these numbers against competitors’ numbers as well as against the retail sector (Wal-Mart, Target, Costco Wholesale Corp ( COST ), and Dollar General Corporation ( DG ) are large players in the sector), we can figure out how efficient the business is.

Answer: industry