<p>When companies cannot <strong>keep</strong> up with the competition, they will either have to close their shops or merge with an existing company.</p>
<p>The correct answer is <strong>(B) keep</strong>.</p>
<p>In this sentence, the phrase "keep up with" means to maintain the same level or pace as the competition. It implies that the competition is advancing or progressing, and if a company cannot keep up, it means they are falling behind.</p>
<p>The verb "keep" is the appropriate choice because it suggests the action of maintaining or staying at the same level. The other options do not convey the same meaning:</p><p><span style="font-size: 13.008px;">(A) "come up with" means to produce or develop something new, which is not the intended meaning in this sentence</span><span style="font-size: 13.008px;">.</span></p>