Inventory / Sales ratio back to "Normal"

Inventory / Sales ratio data is pretty much back to normal, as I mentioned in the last update of this data series.  The ratio ticked down a little.  Not much to see here, move along. . . .

Inventory bounce is pretty much over with

The Inventory / Sales ratio is pretty much back to 'normal'.  As such the inventory bounce contribution to GDP is over.  A lot of other blogs have the details but here's one picture that says it all. 

The quick and easy fixes to GDP growth have already occured.  It's going to be tough sledding now.

US Inventories

Excess inventories in America are being worked off rather quickly as you can see.  It will be interesting to watch this ratio over time and see what industrial production looks like after the ratio stabilizes.  Also note how the ratio has dropped over time.  America has become more efficient in lowering the inventory of 'stuff' needed per unit of sales.

Looking for that inventory bounce

I drive though the Port of Tacoma, which is a major import hub for several Asian car manufacturers, on my way to work every day.

From the freeway spur you can see acres and acres of cars, waiting for distribution to local and regional suppliers. During the panic you could see the inventory stacking up in all sorts of locations not usually used for storing cars. Parking lots for businesses, spare lots, etc. were full of row after row of brand new cars right off the boat.

Some of that excess inventory appears to have been worked off as the fields of cars are only located in their 'normal' staging areas.

Except this spot. This is a brand new warehouse just completed . Google maps' satellite photos don't even show the building yet. It does not contain a business but is completely full, and surrounded by new car inventory.

Driving around the building you can peer inside some of the garage doors and see the entire inside of the warehouse is full of cars as well. This is a 500,000 sq foot warehouse which is absolutely HUGE. Take the time to examine some of the photos below and look at the how many garage doors are along the long side of the building.

At least one real estate management firm is getting inventive on how to lease space.
(Photos were taken August 19th, 2009)












If you are looking for a brand new 500,00 sq foot warehouse right next to a rail hub in Tacoma, you might want to give them a ring.