The aim of this study was to assess the significance of the various factors influencing the profitability of the four companies in the meat industry in 2008-2012. An evaluation of the factors influencing the level of profitability, ie revenues, expenses, earnings and assets as well as equity. Basing on these categories there were determined the profitability ratios of net sales, assets and equity. The relationships among the various components of the basic output categories and value of assets and equity determine the profitability level of each business unit. Efficiency of each surveyed companies was different, but the general trend was low and decreasing the profitability ratios. The main reasons of changes regarding the level of return to equity were changes in the level of sales profitability.