In recent observations, GV Plekhanova Olga Lebedinskaya from the PRUE Department of Statistics notes that finding high-quality goods on difficult shelves can be challenging, yet this is not always the case. A market report, referred to as Hitting the Primer, suggests there are moments when value items do surface despite distribution hurdles.
According to industry insights, retailers reserve space for products tagged as last chance to buy. These items are often offered at substantial discounts, especially when packaging is damaged or the product is approaching or has surpassed its best before date. When revenue is under pressure, customers may still opt for these items, and they frequently scrutinize even the least favored shelf sections for good deals.
Lebedinskaya highlights that in earlier periods such shelves could hold bulk, unboxed goods or even remain empty. Dead shelves, which rarely exceed a small share of total sales, are often neglected by store planners.
Experts explain that present conditions push stores to minimize losses from aging stock. Carrying costs and disposal expenses can be high, and taxes apply to unsold goods, motivating retailers to act decisively with delayed inventory.
Tatiana Chalykh, formerly a Professor in the Department of Commodity Science and Commodity Specialization at the Russian University of Economics, comments on practical buying habits. She notes that everyday items are best purchased new when possible and warns against repeatedly selling goods that have already served their purpose well. This reflects prudent inventory management and consumer education about value versus risk.
Overall, the dialogue among retail professionals emphasizes that while discount shelves and late-life products exist, smart shoppers balance cost savings with product quality and freshness. Marked reports attribute these tendencies to broader market pressures and evolving consumer expectations in both national markets and cross-border trade, underscoring the ongoing impact of stock management on pricing and availability.
Note: The above synthesis reflects industry observations compiled in reports titled Hitting the Primer and is presented with attribution to the involved researchers and institutions for context.