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Subject: % MARKUP
Name: LAUREN
Who are you: Other

MY DAD IS TRYING TO SELL PRODUCTS AT A 40% MARKUP. LET'S SAY THE COST IS $55.00. SHOULDN'T YOU JUST DO, 55 X 1.4 = 77 , SO THE $77 IS THE 40% MARKUP??
HE'S SAYING THAT YOU TAKE 55 / 60% = 91.67 .
SO WHO'S FORMULA SHOWS YOU A TRUE 40% MARKUP OF $55.00 DOLLARS??????

Hi Lauren,

When we use the term percentage we should always say percentage of what. Here is what I see in your question

  cost list price markup
Lauren $55.00 $70.00 $15.00
Lauren's dad $55.00 $91.67 $36.67

In your calculation the markup, $15.00, is 40% of the cost. In your dad's calculation the markup, $36.67, is 40% of the list price. Both points of view are valid but you should be clear to your customers which you are using.

Penny

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