It seems like a rather silly question to ask, but without profit, what really is the point? After all, if there aren't any profits generated from sales to customers, then the business isn't self-sustaining and therefore growth and longevity will be short-lived.

Profit is necessary to pay dividends and enable reinvestment into the business. The marketing function is funded from profits and so it has to perform well giving the business great value for money. There are plenty of out-sourced marketing departments ready to step in!

Profit is not a nasty word, even if you are a social enterprise - you still need to make money.

Understanding the profit margins, gross profit, net profit and profit by product will help you ensure that your marketing effort is targeted in the areas where you will make a profit.