In what way can excess inventory negatively impact a company?

Excess inventory negatively impacts a company primarily by increasing carrying costs and the risk of obsolescence. When a company holds more inventory than necessary, it incurs additional costs associated with storage, insurance, and handling. These carrying costs can accumulate and divert resources away from other critical areas of the business. Furthermore, excessive inventory may become outdated or obsolete, especially in industries characterized by rapid changes in technology or consumer preferences. This risk can result in financial losses when the inventory cannot be sold, or must be heavily discounted, affecting the overall profitability of the organization. By managing inventory levels more effectively, companies can mitigate these costs and reduce the chances of having unsellable stock, ultimately improving operational efficiency.