Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? W.W. Grainger, Inc. or Nordson Corporation

Optimizing SG&A Costs: A Tale of Two Companies

In the competitive landscape of industrial supply and manufacturing, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for profitability. Over the past decade, W.W. Grainger, Inc. and Nordson Corporation have demonstrated contrasting approaches to SG&A optimization. From 2014 to 2023, W.W. Grainger, Inc. consistently reported higher SG&A expenses, peaking at nearly $3.9 billion in 2023. In contrast, Nordson Corporation maintained a more modest trajectory, with expenses reaching approximately $812 million in 2024. This disparity highlights W.W. Grainger's expansive operational scale compared to Nordson's more streamlined approach. Interestingly, while W.W. Grainger's SG&A expenses grew by about 32% over the period, Nordson's increased by roughly 40%, indicating a more aggressive expansion strategy. As businesses navigate economic uncertainties, these insights into SG&A management offer valuable lessons in balancing growth with cost efficiency.