Managing SG&A Costs: A Tale of Two Giants

In the competitive landscape of corporate America, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for profitability. Waste Management, Inc. and Delta Air Lines, Inc. offer a fascinating comparison. Over the past decade, Delta Air Lines has seen its SG&A expenses fluctuate significantly, peaking in 2019 before a sharp decline in 2020, likely due to the pandemic's impact. In contrast, Waste Management has maintained a more stable trajectory, with expenses increasing steadily by approximately 30% from 2014 to 2023.

A Closer Look

Delta's SG&A expenses in 2020 were notably low, at just 20% of their 2019 peak, reflecting industry-wide challenges. Meanwhile, Waste Management's expenses have shown resilience, with a consistent upward trend, reaching their highest in 2022. This stability suggests a more controlled approach to cost management, despite missing data for 2024. As businesses navigate economic uncertainties, these insights highlight the importance of strategic SG&A management.