Selling, General, and Administrative Costs: Eaton Corporation plc vs W.W. Grainger, Inc.

A Decade of SG&A Trends: Eaton vs. Grainger

In the ever-evolving landscape of industrial giants, Eaton Corporation plc and W.W. Grainger, Inc. have showcased intriguing trends in their Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses over the past decade. From 2014 to 2023, Eaton's SG&A costs fluctuated, peaking in 2014 and 2023, with a notable dip in 2020. Meanwhile, Grainger's expenses steadily climbed, culminating in a 32% increase by 2023. This divergence highlights Eaton's strategic cost management and Grainger's aggressive expansion. Notably, 2020 marked a pivotal year, with Eaton's expenses dropping by 19%, while Grainger's rose by 8%, reflecting differing responses to global challenges. As these industry leaders navigate economic shifts, their SG&A strategies offer valuable insights into operational resilience and growth trajectories.