Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Waste Management, Inc. or American Airlines Group Inc.

Optimizing 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 American Airlines Group Inc. offer a fascinating comparison in this regard. Over the past decade, Waste Management has consistently maintained higher SG&A expenses, peaking at approximately $1.93 billion in 2022. In contrast, American Airlines saw a significant dip in 2020, with expenses dropping to around $513 million, likely due to the pandemic's impact on the travel industry. However, by 2023, American Airlines rebounded, with SG&A expenses reaching nearly $1.8 billion. Waste Management's expenses, meanwhile, remained relatively stable, showcasing their robust cost management strategies. This comparison highlights the resilience and adaptability of these industry leaders in optimizing operational costs amidst varying economic conditions.