SLOWER BUILDUP: U.S. companies restocked their store shelves and warehouses at a slower 0.1 percent pace in December, the smallest rise since last June and a sign of caution as sales weakened.
SLUGGISH SALES: Total sales for wholesalers, retailers and manufacturers increased only 0.3 percent, down from a 0.9 percent clip in November. Slower rebuilding of inventories means factories produced less, lowering overall economic output.
SILVER LINING: But if sales keep growing, companies may have to restock more quickly in the January-March quarter, boosting growth.