Decent Company operates a large discount store and uses the retail method to estimate the cost of ending inventory. Management suspects that in recent weeks there have been unusually heavy losses from shoplifting or employee pilferage. To estimate the amount of the loss, the company has taken a physical inventory and will compare the results with the estimated cost of inventory. Data from the accounting records of Decent Company are as follows: 

Required 

1. Using the retail method, prepare a schedule to estimate the dollar amount of the store’s month-end inventory at cost. 

2. Use the store’s cost to retail ratio to reduce the retail value of the physical inventory to cost. 

3. Calculate the estimated amount of inventory shortage at cost and at retail. 

4. Many retail chains use the retail method because it is efficient. Why do you think using this method is an efficient way for these companies to operate?

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At Cost $51,488 71,733 (2,043) At Retail $ 74,300 August 1 beginning inventory Purchases Purchases returns and allowances Freight-in 108,500 (3,200) 950 Sales Sales returns and allowances August 31 physical inventory at retail 109,183 (933) 62,450