Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements The breakdown of the number of employees of Group companies by function is as follows: 2018 2017 Sales 22,446 21,010 Research and development 1,609 1,494 Production 3,564 3,271 Administration 1,385 1,106 Total employees (as at December 31) 29,004 26,881 (32) Depreciation and amortization This position comprises depreciation, amortization and impairment losses on intangible assets as well as property, plant and equipment. (33) Other operating expenses Major items included in other operating expenses are the below: in CHF million 2018 2017 Expenditures for rent (194.2) (172.4) Travel (167.9) (145.0) Outward freight (137.4) (123.3) Maintenance & repairs (100.9) (90.7) Legal & consulting (87.1) (72.7) Marketing & communication (63.5) (61.5) Other (134.9) (128.3) Total other operating expenses (885.9) (793.9) 2018 Financial Report | 66