Identify one common expense that impacts a deli's ROI.

Labor costs are a significant expense that greatly impacts a deli's return on investment (ROI). In the deli business, the workforce is essential for providing quality customer service, preparing food, and maintaining operational efficiency. Labor costs can include wages, benefits, and overtime pay, and they tend to be one of the largest expenses a deli incurs.

When managing a deli, controlling labor costs is crucial for improving profitability. High labor costs can diminish ROI because they directly affect the overall expenses relative to the income generated by sales. Effective scheduling and training can help minimize unnecessary overtime or employee turnover, which in turn can lead to a better ROI.

In contrast, marketing expenses, utility bills, and rent for property, while also important operational considerations, typically do not impact ROI to the same extent as labor costs. Marketing expenses are generally aimed at driving sales rather than being an immediate ongoing cost. Utility bills are variable costs that can fluctuate but are usually more predictable, and rent is a fixed cost that does not change frequently. Therefore, labor costs remain a critical factor in calculating and improving the ROI of a deli.