Medición del impacto de las líneas de producción de las empresas aglomerados Cotopaxi S.A. en su generación de rentabilidad

Abstract

The main objective of the research was to evaluate the impact of the production lines (Fibraplac-MDF, Duraplac-Agglomerate, Decorative Moldings and Panels, and Raw Wood) between 2021 and 2024, in order to optimize operational efficiency and maximize value generation. A mixed methodological approach (qualitative-quantitative), non-experimental and cross-sectional was used, which integrated the financial analysis of the financial statements with semi-structured interviews with the heads of production, finance and sales. The financial analysis showed a clear difference in profitability. The Duraplac and Fibraplac lines proved to be sustainable and lucrative, with average operating margins of 16% and 8% respectively, supporting the company's stability. On the other hand, the Molding and Raw Wood lines presented a critical situation: despite having very high gross margins (63% and 83%), they reported negative or very low operating and net margins (-5% and 6%), which reveals a severe reduction in their profits due to high operating expenses and structural costs. The SWOT analysis indicated that this problem is caused by internal factors, such as the low turnover of inventories and accounts receivable in Moldings, as well as the logistical and climatic vulnerability in Raw Wood, including external threats such as competition from substitute products and market instability. Based on this diagnosis, the research developed a Strategic Optimization Proposal composed of four priority initiatives: 1) Internationalization of Fibraplac, 2) Operational and commercial restructuring of Molduras, 3) Improvement in general energy efficiency, and 4) A contingency plan for liquidity. The financial evaluation of this proposal anticipates a total Return on Investment (ROI) of 28. 8% and a payback period of 15 months, with a total investment estimated at $141,000, strategically distributed according to the impact potential and viability of each initiative. In summary, the study concludes that the profitability of Aglomerados Cotopaxi S.A. is strongly influenced by the uneven performance of its production portfolio. Keywords: Profitability, Production management, financial analysis, Forest industry, Decision making.