Textbook Problem

LOCKBOX SYSTEM Fisher-Gardner Corporation (FGC) began operations 5 years ago as a small firm serving customers in the Chicago area. However, its reputation and market area grew quickly. Today FGC has customers all over the United States. Despite its broad customer base, FGC has maintained its headquarters in Chicago, and it keeps its central billing system there. On average, it takes 7 days from the time customers mail in payments until FGC can receive, process, and deposit them. FGC would like to set up a lockbox collection system, which it estimates would reduce the time lag from customer mailing to deposit by 2 days––bringing it down to 5 days. FGC receives an average of $2,300,000 in payments per day.

1. a. How much free cash would FGC generate if it implemented the lockbox system? Would this be a one-time cash flow or a recurring one, assuming the company ceases to grow? How would growth affect your answer?
2. b. If FGC has an opportunity cost of 6%, how much is the lockbox system worth on an annual basis?
3. c. What is the maximum monthly charge FGC should pay for the lockbox system?