How to Calculate Gross Profit Margin: The Basics Explained

In running an online business, the performance of a multitude of metrics can either make or break your company. Among these many numbers, ratios, and figures, gross profit margin emerges as one of the most important.

With competitors now only a click away, it’s become imperative to understand and optimize your gross profit margin. This can shed light on your company's health and its operational efficiency, and it will serve as a testament to your business’ resilience and capacity for growth.

In this article, we'll delve more deeply into what gross profit margin is and why it matters. We’ll also discuss how it interplays with operational and strategic-decision making. And before we wrap up, we’ll explain how to calculate gross profit margin for your own company.

What is gross profit margin?

At its core, gross profit margin represents the percentage of sales revenue that exceeds the cost of goods sold (COGS). It essentially illuminates how efficiently a business can produce its goods or services, stripping away other operational expenses. 

This metric doesn't merely show a figure. It paints a clear picture of a business's core operations by offering insights into:

• Product pricing
• Competitive positioning
• A company’s overall financial health

Knowing how to calculate gross profit margin is only half the battle. Comprehending its significance is vital for long-term growth and stability. 

In a broader context, understanding your gross margin ratio will guide strategic decisions, from pricing adjustments to supply chain optimizations. These factors make it a financial cornerstone for every online entrepreneur.

What is a good gross profit margin?

A good gross profit margin indicates that for every dollar earned, a substantial portion is retained as profit before other expenses come into play. This can be the difference between thriving in a competitive online marketplace and struggling to stay afloat. 

A good gross margin ratio also is typically a sign that a business manages its costs effectively. It’s an indicator that a company has a buffer against potential downturns or unforeseen expenses.

Good gross profit margins vary across industries. You can find the average gross profit margin of different sectors in this data set published by NYU’s Stern School of Business.

Why gross profit margin matters: Its impact on business acquisition and raising funding

If you ever consider selling your online business or raising funds to scale operations, your gross profit margin is often at the forefront of discussions. It’s a critical metric that potential buyers, lenders, or investors will scrutinize.

A strong gross margin ratio can be the difference between approval for a business loan or a line of credit. Lenders seek assurance that the business can generate enough profit to cover loan repayments, and having a good gross profit margin can provide that confidence.

Similarly, when pitching to venture capitalists or angel investors, gross profit margin is a frequently highlighted figure. These kinds of investors invest with the hope of funding a sustainable business model that ideally offers exponential returns.

Whether you're seeking loans, pitching to investors, or looking to buy a company yourself, understanding how to calculate gross profit margin and its implications can serve as leverage. Knowing what that number is will help you better deals and future growth opportunities.

How to calculate gross profit margin

We’ve discussed what gross profit margin is and why it matters. Now let’s cover a simple way to calculate gross profit margin for your business.

Start by determining your gross profit. This is achieved by subtracting the cost of goods sold (COGS) from total sales revenue. 

For instance, say you run an eCommerce store that made sales totaling $1 million and incurred direct costs amounting to $600,000. Your gross profit would stand at $400,000.

Gross Profit = Total Sales Revenue - Cost of Goods

= $1,000,000 - $600,000

=$400,000 Gross Profit

Once you've pinpointed your gross profit, the next step is to find the gross margin ratio. Divide your gross profit by total sales revenue and multiply the result by 100. 

Using the previous example, the calculation would be:

Gross Margin Ratio = (Gross Profit / Total Sales Revenue) x 100

= ($400,000 / $1,000,000) x 100

= 40% Gross Margin Ratio

This indicates that for every dollar earned, $0.40 is retained as profit after accounting for direct costs. 

The role of gross profit margin in your online business’ success

From subscription-based businesses to eCommerce companies, this essential metric offers insight into a venture’s financial well-being. By determining what is gross profit, online entrepreneurs can make informed pricing decisions, investments, and optimize cash flow. 

A favorable gross margin ratio reflects a business's ability to manage its production costs efficiently. It can also be a determining factor when seeking funding from investors or banks.

In a dynamic world where trends can shift overnight, online businesses that keep an eye on their gross profit margins are better equipped to adapt. For those seeking to buy or fund their venture, platforms like Boopos can streamline the process.

We make it easier to identify profitable businesses. Learn how we can guide you through your business acquisition process.