Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Emerson Electric Co. or Republic Services, Inc.

Optimizing SG&A Costs: A Tale of Two Companies

In the competitive landscape of corporate America, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for profitability. Emerson Electric Co. and Republic Services, Inc. have been navigating this financial terrain since 2014. Emerson Electric Co. has seen a significant reduction in SG&A expenses, dropping from approximately $5.7 billion in 2014 to around $4.2 billion in 2023, a decrease of nearly 26%. Meanwhile, Republic Services, Inc. has experienced a steady increase, with expenses rising from about $896 million in 2014 to $1.5 billion in 2023, marking a 70% increase. This divergence highlights Emerson's strategic cost optimization, while Republic Services' growth in expenses may reflect expansion or increased operational costs. The data for 2024 is incomplete, leaving room for speculation on future trends.