An Analysis of Operating Performance of Selected Paper Companies in India

Purpose: The aim of this research work is to analyze and compare profitability performance of selected paper companies in India. Approach/Methodology/Design: An analytical study method is employed in this research work by relying on secondary data. In this research work 12 paper companies are selected as a sample based on their higher net sales and the study period are last10 financial years from 2012-13 to 2021-22. Ratio Analysis is used as an accounting tool in which six profitability ratios are employed. One-way ANOVA technique of parametric test is used as a statistical tool to identify the difference among sample means. Findings: The major finding of the research work indicates that in all the selected paper companies the profitability performance of shows fluctuating trend during the study period of 10 years. The overall performance was good and satisfactory in Satia Industries Ltd., JK paper Ltd., Seshasayee Paper and Board Ltd. and NR Agarwal Industries Ltd. and it was low and dissatisfactory in Orient Paper & Industries Ltd. and Astron Paper & Board Mill Ltd. for all the selected profitability ratio during the study period. The results of statistical test revealed that in gross profit ratio, operating profit ratio and return on assets ratio formulated null hypotheses are rejected and in net profit ratio, return on net worth ratio and return on capital employed ratio formulated null hypotheses are accepted. Originality/value: In this research work profitability analysis is carried out which is helpful to know the profitability performance of selected paper companies. The result would help investors to make right choice of investment in selected companies. It would also identify that how efficiently a business can generates profit and value for its shareholders from its sales or operations, shareholders' fund or balance sheet’s assets.