MSM Company sells clothing for young adults. The firm has normal monthly fixed costs of $140,000 ($68,000 of this amount is fixed salaries). The firms variable cost ratio averages 65%. The firm operates 3 stores in the mid Atlantic region.

1. What is the monthly level of sales dollars needed to breakeven? _____________

2. What is the monthly level of sales dollars needed to earn an operating profit of $40,000 monthly?____________

3. What is the monthly level of sales dollars needed to earn an operating profit of 9% of sales monthly?___________

4. The firm is considering reducing monthly fixed salaries (currently $68,000) and using a combination salary and commission employee compensation plan. The reduction in fixed salaries would equal $10,000 monthly and be replaced with a 2% of gross sales commission payment. The 2% would be shared by all fixed salary employees.

   a. Calculate the new breakeven point in monthly sales dollars.

   b. Calculate the new level of monthly sales dollars needed to earn an operating profit of $40,000 monthly.