Service Corporation International

Funeral rites represent an important part of collective behaviour in every society. This particular societal need has grown significantly in recent years due to factors such as ageing populations, greater affluence and more awareness of pre-planned funeral arrangements.

SCI manages more than 35,000 acres of land, mostly green space in cemeteries. These cemeteries often serve as community parks in urban areas. The company is also certified by the Green Burial Council in the states of Washington and Florida.

SCI enjoys excellent operating profit margins and has a long-term record of generating superior total shareholder returns. The company’s financial position is underpinned by a funeral plan service worth billions of dollars. This pre-need selling provides an opportunity to gain future market share plus it enhances the stability and predictability of revenue and cash flows.

As a provider of funeral and cemetery services, Service Corp faces ethical scrutiny over pricing transparency and sales practices, particularly relevant as its clients may be vulnerable. Additionally, roles within the industry can be both emotionally and physically demanding. The company must manage mental and physical health risks and ensure compliance with occupational health and safety standards.

Environmental concerns stem from burial and embalming practices, which may involve chemicals which require careful control. Cremation services are also energy-intensive and produce carbon emissions.

Whilst Service Corp actively looks for ways to reduce its environmental impact, the amount of carbon emissions it produces is heavily dependent on the number of services and cremations it performs.