Transport and logistics company Asciano Group
(ASX:AIO) said in its September quarter operating report this morning that it has seen some encouraging signs within a number of its businesses, with volumes and trading conditions showing signs of stability or improvement in the quarter.
Chief executive and managing director Mark Rowsthorn said first quarter coal haulage by its Pacific National rail business improved 25 per cent on a year ago. And while Asciano’s Patrick Container Ports stevedoring business saw the number of lifts improve 8 per cent quarter-on-quarter, the numbers were still down 17 per cent on a year ago.
Mr Rowsthorn said that although volumes for its non-bulk businesses remain below last year’s level, the overall results are in line with expectations.
Asciano’s net profit in 2009 was sharply lower than in 2008.
