Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Salesforce, Inc. or Zebra Technologies Corporation

Optimizing SG&A Costs: A Tale of Two Companies

In the competitive landscape of corporate America, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for profitability. Salesforce, Inc. and Zebra Technologies Corporation, two giants in their respective fields, offer a fascinating study in contrasts. Over the past decade, Salesforce's SG&A expenses have surged by approximately 480%, reflecting its aggressive growth strategy. In contrast, Zebra Technologies has maintained a more stable SG&A cost structure, with a modest increase of around 160% over the same period.

A Decade of Financial Strategy

From 2014 to 2023, Salesforce's SG&A expenses grew from $2.8 billion to $16.1 billion, while Zebra's expenses increased from $351 million to $982 million. This disparity highlights Salesforce's expansive approach compared to Zebra's more conservative financial management. However, the data for 2024 is incomplete, leaving room for speculation on future trends. As businesses navigate the post-pandemic economy, these strategies will be pivotal in determining their market positions.