Josh Hyatt, CFO Magazine
December 1, 2008

Questionnable Facts or Allusions

This was a good article with a lot of good ideas for established consumer products companies.

There was one questionnable fact or allusion early in the article. In discussing bankruptcy as an option for retailers the author cited a number of retailers who had recently gone through bankruptcy.

All of the names were familiar stories except Kohl's. I know Kohl's is having their share of volume and profit problems. But, unless I missed a press release, I don't believe they're going through bankruptcy. Nor have they gone through bankruptcy in the recent past - if ever. What they're contemplating is unclear but I think they're still in the black.

A comment like the one in the article, if broadly disseminated, can have a decidedly negative impact on a company's stock. I'd suggest a correction or clarification by the author might be in order.

Posted by TOM LIEVEN | Jan 2, 2009 12:26 AM ET

Needless Mark-up

I enjoyed this article because focusing on improving revenue is the surest way to maintain viability during tough times. Let a third party expert cut your expenses on a true gain sharing model. Our expense reduction business is up significantly at this time, but companies should continuously be reviewing expenses for opportunities to cut cots. So much focus on cutting travel expenses and headcount is short sighted at best.

Posted by Patrick Driscoll | Dec 2, 2008 12:30 PM ET