Unsold U.S. retail inventory a challenge after dismal earnings season

A pile-up of unsold inventory across U.S. retail chains is likely to squeeze profits further as stores struggle to make up for a weak first quarter marred by weak sales and share declines. Target's shares fell to a 52-week low on Wednesday after its sales missed estimates. Target Chief Executive Brian Cornell, speaking after the company released its earnings, cautioned investors about the impact of the stock build-up.