Operating profit measures how well management runs the day-to-day business. It strips out financing decisions (interest) and tax regimes, making it comparable across companies and countries.
The operating margin (EBIT ÷ revenue) is the single most quoted profitability ratio for established businesses. Tracking the trend reveals whether the business is gaining or losing operational leverage as it grows.
Operating Profit = Revenue − COGS − Operating Expenses
A consultancy with CHF 2m revenue, CHF 800k of direct project costs and CHF 700k of rent, salaries and software earns CHF 500k operating profit — a 25% operating margin.