FARMINGTON HILLS, MI – From a high of 9.7 percent to a low of 3.1 percent, pre-tax profits varied widely among manufacturers in the work truck industry. The gap widened even more so when return on investment (ROI) between the typical manufacturer (6.8 percent) and the high-profit manufacturer (25.2 percent) was examined.

These are a few of the results reported by the National Truck Equipment Association’s (NTEA) recently released 2007 Manufacturer Financial and Operating Report. The Report reviews the factors for success that distinguish high-profit firms from typical performance firms. It concludes that no firm is perfect, but the most successful ones tend to fit a model that creates improved results for the company. The challenge is knowing how to build the model for the specific company.

The results profiled in the report are based on income statement, balance sheet, and operating data provided by manufacturers. The report includes:

• Executive summary that provides an overview of the study.
  

• Detailed results that examine ROI, income statement, balance sheet, and financial ratios for companies.
  

• Analysis by sales volume examines manufacturers by sales volume category.
  

• Analysis of variance provides the range of common experience for each of the ratios and measures.

  The survey was conducted and compiled for NTEA by the Mackay Research Group. Participants have received a copy of the report free-of-charge, while it is available to nonparticipating NTEA members for $25 and nonmembers for $50. To purchase a copy of the report, visit NTEA.com or call (800) 441-NTEA (6832).