Due to erratic sales of its sole producta high-capacity battery for laptop computersPEM, Incorporated, has been experiencing financial difficulty for some time. The companys contribution format income statement for the most recent month is given below:

Sales (19,500 units $30 per unit) $ 585,000

Variable expenses 409,500

Contribution margin 175,500

Fixed expenses 180,000

Net operating loss $ (4,500)

Refer to the original data. By automating, the company could reduce variable expenses by $3 per unit. However, fixed expenses would increase by $72,000 each month. Assume that the company expects to sell 26,000 units next month. Prepare two contribution format income statements, one assuming that operations are not automated and one assuming that they are. (Show data on a per unit and percentage basis, as well as in total, for each alternative.)