Rather than being a cynic, I'd hope that they avail themselves of some real-time inventory software, both for stores as well as on-line orders. It is a pleasure to do business with firms that operate in that manner, no back orders, no crossing of the fingers. See it, order it or answer the question about shelf inventory, no problem. And it is a lot less hassle for the seller, too ... no canceled orders. From the buyer's perspective, it frees up his available line of credit, if he operates in that manner. 'Just a thot', as WTS is prone to say.