Now then, where goes the windfall, and why?
Again,
15% of profits will no longer go the the Federal Government,
annually. It will go somewhere, so we might as well make the case for where we think it should go.
I've already said that I think the general mix of spending will remain fairly constant. Budget priorities have already been determined, deemed worthy, and forecast on a percentage basis.
There will likely be some extra priority given to one area or another. Maybe a couple.
Red has tossed his hat into the area of Fleet and facilities upgrades. Nothing wrong with
some going that way, in anticipation of the huge boost coming to the industry with the strong & growing economy. Upgrades in terms of
capacity would be hard to argue against. It would be short sighted to put all gains into this area, because the finest facilities in the world are
worthless without a dependable and steady stream of quality workers.
The Fleet, already undergoing a substantial upgrade can probably suffice on it's current budget trajectory, able to be tweaked along the way.
Stockholders will certainly get their's. The continued growth and improved efficiencies driving that, as well as improved dividend payouts.
Rates “could” be cut, making us the “wal-mart” of the industry, something we've been told is exactly what we
don't want to do, as a company. Let's hope that holds true.
Employees... Specifically Drivers, could use a boost for a number of reasons. I think we should list these reasons, since there are some good ones.
Growth. You're NOT going to grow significantly without a steady pool of quality drivers/mechanics/dock help. If you think you can grow big league on the backs of current divers (and currant stream of applicants), you will be in a constant battle to service the customer.
Significant Wage increase will drive recruiting in ways not seen in many years. Also the ability to remain fully staffed will keep hours at a reasonable level. Why does this matter? I can promise you, most veterans (including this one) will not be working 12-14 hours/day well into their 60s. They might stay if the typical day is 8-9. Trust me.
Beyond recruiting (made easier), the simple fact remains: The only way to grow significantly is to have the workers to do it. The companies who get in front of this will lead the market in many ways. If FedEx has a lock on top-shelf driver employment (that stack of applications), they will be the among the only carriers able to accept and properly service new business.
What if... All of it went into wages? And included a public announcement, in the next few months? Massive wage hike, across the board?
Massive positive publicity, true. More importantly, reinforced perception as THE place to work, especially for drivers. Application through the roof, set to
handle any and all growth. Equally important, it would send shock waves (disruption) across the industry. Similar, but more powerful than when UPS bumped top wages through the roof.
Result? FedEx not only leads, but DOMINATES the shipping industry, causing disruption across all the entire sector. Could send much of the competition into a panic, unable to compete for the shrinking pool of drivers.
Checkmate.
* The above is just one possible scenario. NOT a prediction. Rather a suggestion, posted for entertainment value, and containing significant elements of truth. Proceed at your own risk...