. our consolidated inventory balances were unfavorably affected by u.s . capacity limitations during 2006 ; nevertheless , our consolidated inventory balances remain at industry-leading levels . despite the unfavorable movement in the absolute balance , average core working capital continues to improve as a percentage of net sales . for the trailing fifty-two weeks ended december 30 , 2006 , core working capital was 6.8% ( 6.8 % ) of net sales , as compared to 7.0% ( 7.0 % ) as of year-end 2005 and 7.3% ( 7