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Cleaner and better-maintained than a Wal-Mart but without the sprawling inventory of a Sears or Macy’s, Kohl’s holds onto its department-store niche by maintaining a rigorously focused roster of discounted big-name brands. The result is an efficient, if somewhat myopic, shopping experience: the home-goods department has kitchen supplies of every type, but nearly all seem to carry the Food Network logo; the towels, sheets, pillows, and comforters are nearly all by Chaps; big names like Nike and Dockers dominate the menswear section; and Hannah Montana and OshKosh B’Gosh hold court in the kids’ department. What the pristine white-tile, flood-lit space lacks in brand diversity and overall character, however, it makes up for in organization and navigability—aisles are clear, clothes are all on hangers, and fitting rooms are abundant. With its centralized checkout terminals, the store has limited staff roaming the aisles, but there are always associates on hand to answer questions in the beauty and fine jewelry departments. — Alex Littlefield