Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Ferguson plc or Pool Corporation

Optimizing SG&A Costs: A Tale of Two Giants

In the competitive world of business, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for profitability. Ferguson plc and Pool Corporation, two industry leaders, have shown distinct strategies in this regard over the past decade. From 2014 to 2023, Ferguson plc's SG&A expenses have surged by approximately 20%, peaking at over $6 billion in 2023. In contrast, Pool Corporation has maintained a more modest increase of around 100% over the same period, reaching just over $900 million. This stark difference highlights Ferguson's aggressive expansion and investment strategy, while Pool Corporation appears to focus on leaner operations. Notably, data for 2024 is incomplete, leaving room for speculation on future trends. As businesses navigate economic uncertainties, the ability to optimize SG&A costs remains a key differentiator in sustaining growth and profitability.