Inventory Nightmares

I'm curious how many small medical device or implant dealers have perfect inventory reports, leave a company without losing money or commission, or in general find this part of their business a challenge. Think about it. You have a few salespeople, an office, maybe an admin person (your wife or husband), and handle hundreds, maybe thousands of items like implants and instruments that can total at list in six figures.

As long as the business is growing all is forgiven, but if the company gets bought or your 30 day agreement is terminated suddenly every little sample or disposable is like gold. Yikes.

So I'm curious about your story. I suspect that there are some good ones. We once got sideways with a hip and knee company and all agreed to disagree and get a divorce. Suddenly, I got a huge list of missing stock that totaled more than the last commission check. I did some research and found that in the last three years, only one of several terminated dealers or employees or managers got their last check. So there was a pattern here and recurring problem. It did not seem like a fair fight but in the end it turned out OK after I brought in an inventory ninja who was able to handle the load. But it was expensive. So what's your story? Enjoy the summer, and remember, more sales cure all problems!