US Retail Inventory Tracker, 1Q19

Executive Summary

In our quarterly US Retail Inventory Tracker reports, we analyze inventory trends among US retailers the Coresight 100.

• Most Coresight 100 retailers witnessed a decline in consumer spending, which translated into poor sales and inventory buildup in comparison to the same quarter last year. Tariffs and strategic investments also drove inventory accumulation.
• Specialty retailers such as TJX Companies and Burlington Stores reported increases in inventory year over year due to new store openings. TJX Companies and Dick’s Sporting Goods turned inventory at a slower pace, resulting in higher inventory.
• Department stores saw inventory decline year over year. However, Macy’s inventory level rose due to slower turnover of its spring products during the quarter.
• Food and drug retailers and mass merchants grew their inventory levels in line with or above their sales growth.
• Home and home-improvement retailers saw a significant increase in inventory levels year over year as they stocked up ahead of anticipated seasonal demand.
• Retailers are also likely carrying higher inventory to offset the tariff impact and support expansion plans.