Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Waste Management, Inc. or Roper Technologies, 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 Roper Technologies, Inc. have been at the forefront of this financial discipline since 2014. Over the past decade, Roper Technologies has seen a 74% increase in SG&A expenses, peaking in 2021. Meanwhile, Waste Management's SG&A costs rose by 30% during the same period, with a notable dip in 2018.

Roper's strategic investments in technology and innovation have driven its higher SG&A, reflecting its growth ambitions. Conversely, Waste Management's steady cost control aligns with its operational efficiency focus. As of 2023, both companies report similar SG&A expenses, highlighting their distinct yet effective approaches. This comparison underscores the diverse strategies companies employ to optimize costs while pursuing growth.