Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Ferguson plc or Rockwell Automation, Inc.

Optimizing SG&A Costs: A Comparative Analysis

In the competitive landscape of industrial giants, Ferguson plc and Rockwell Automation, Inc. stand out for their strategic management of Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses. Over the past decade, Ferguson plc has demonstrated a remarkable increase in SG&A efficiency, with costs rising from a modest $5 million in 2014 to over $6 billion in 2024. This represents a staggering growth of over 120,000%, reflecting their aggressive expansion and operational scaling.

Conversely, Rockwell Automation, Inc. has maintained a more stable SG&A trajectory, with expenses increasing from approximately $1.57 billion in 2014 to $2 billion in 2024, marking a 29% rise. This stability suggests a focus on consistent operational efficiency.

The data highlights Ferguson's rapid growth strategy compared to Rockwell's steady approach, offering valuable insights into their respective business models and market strategies.