SMBs intensify inventory clearance tactics as dead stock rises

Small and medium-sized businesses are increasingly using sales and promotions, liquidation and relocation of goods to clear warehouses, with 77% employing sales or promotions, 39% using liquidation and 34% moving inventory to other locations; half of them now use at least two of these tactics, up from 38% in 2024.

The share of SMBs holding more than 10% of inventory as dead stock has risen to 24% from 12% in 2024, while those with less than 5% dead stock fell to 32% from 49% in 2024.