11.   Because refiners were sure that prices had to fall, they tried to avoid being caught with excess inventories.

12.   Boucher said he believes that chipmakers and PC manufacturers are close to eliminating excess inventories that have resulted in poor earnings for many companies.

13.   -- Forzani Group Ltd., which said it asked its suppliers to to accept longer payment terms at a time when its excess inventory is restricting its working capital.

14.   A bigger problem than speculating, Engel said, is dealers either discounting excess inventory or shipping it to other dealers.

15.   A month earlier, sales in that area had been strong as many automobile dealers moved excess inventory by offering zero-percent financing.

16.   Across the nation, vendors of everything from diamonds to underwear are slashing prices to get rid of unanticipated excess inventory, industry analysts said.

17.   Across the United States, vendors of everything from diamonds to underwear are slashing prices to get rid of unanticipated excess inventory, industry analysts said.

18.   Additionally, excess inventories reduced the demand for capital.

19.   Both companies have struggled with excess inventory amid cooling demand.