Charles River Laboratories (CRL)

Return on total capital

Dec 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) US$ in thousands 227,347 712,248 675,896 546,765 532,545
Long-term debt US$ in thousands
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 3,461,500 3,596,880 2,976,290 2,534,820 2,114,600
Return on total capital 6.57% 19.80% 22.71% 21.57% 25.18%

December 31, 2024 calculation

Return on total capital = EBIT ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $227,347K ÷ ($—K + $3,461,500K)
= 6.57%

Based on the data provided, Charles River Laboratories' return on total capital has experienced fluctuations over the past five years.

- In December 31, 2020, the return on total capital was 25.18%, indicating that the company generated $0.2518 in profit for every dollar of total capital employed.

- By December 31, 2021, the return on total capital had decreased to 21.57%, suggesting a slight decline in the company's ability to generate returns from its capital base.

- In December 31, 2022, the return on total capital improved to 22.71%, showing a recovery from the previous year's dip.

- However, by December 31, 2023, the return on total capital declined to 19.80%, signaling a decrease in efficiency in utilizing the company's total capital.

- The most significant drop occurred by December 31, 2024, where the return on total capital fell sharply to 6.57%. This substantial decline may raise concerns about the company's capital allocation and operational performance during that period.

Overall, while the return on total capital has exhibited some variability, it is essential for Charles River Laboratories to closely monitor and evaluate its capital utilization to enhance profitability and shareholder value in the future.