The term rivalry is from the 1590s, from Latin rivalis "a rival, adversary in love; neighbor," originally, "of the same brook," from rivus "brook."

The intensity of rivalry among competitors in an industry refers to the extent to which firms within an industry put pressure on one another and therefore limit each other’s profit potential. When rivalry is fierce then competitors are trying to steal profit and market share from one another. Intense rivalries reduce profit potential for all firms within the industry. Rivalry in the supply chain industry is becoming more fierce due to the emergence of new "technology-first" firms. Profitability will erode if technology is not used in the supply chain. Emerging technology is key, however, firms are impatient waiting for results.

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Brook of rivalries, adversaries of conflict, neighborhood heroes