Need more proof you need to keep the right sizes in stock? Shares of Bebe, retailer of trendy women's apparel, plunged 20% when it announced it expected significantly lower earnings. One of the reasons analysts gave for Bebe's troubles:

"In essence, the company needs to carry significantly more sizing options to provide a full assortment for the customer. Additionally, the more sophisticated, higher-priced merchandise tends to turn more slowly in the stores," Tennant said.

Inventory Control is not just a "nice to have" or "one of the secrets of success". Inventory control is the engine of the retail company. If the inventory control is not working, nothing will move forward.