Without directly addressing Oracle, SAP did want to point out that as a middleware maker it's in a better position to sell Retek's software than, say, a database company. "SAP believes that integration at the applications level - rather than at the database level - is what will drive competitive advantage for companies looking to align their IT infrastructure in order to respond swiftly to changes in the fast-moving retail market. Moreover, SAP is committed to openness to all databases in the market, not locking customers out of choices. SAP remains strongly committed to the retail industry."