It's common practice for retailers to push many of those costs (as many as they can) back on the suppliers.
For example, Walgreens expects ITS VENDORS to stock the shelves, cycle expired product, and install and replace in-store advertising. Walgreens doesn't do it themselves.
And as for sales, often a supplier is required to buy back stock that goes unsold after a period of time. It's crazy, but that's how much power retailers have.
Oh sure, I work in publishing and that sort of thing goes on. In the old days of mass-market distribution, the guy on the truck would be the one putting books in the racks, and taking back the returns (or the ripped covers). Returns have been a thing for decades. A system of coop payments decides who gets good placement in the store. But in the end, the retailer is paying the vendor for goods sold.
For example, Walgreens expects ITS VENDORS to stock the shelves, cycle expired product, and install and replace in-store advertising. Walgreens doesn't do it themselves.
And as for sales, often a supplier is required to buy back stock that goes unsold after a period of time. It's crazy, but that's how much power retailers have.