We even stopped recruiting for one week. These improvements offset a pay increase to company drivers and independent contractors that became effective at the first of the year, Mr. Aronson said. A strong start is boosting confidence among many truckload carriers. Scott M. Niswonger, chairman of Landair Services, Greeneville, Tenn., which reported record revenues and earnings, said he is optimistic the company will perform well throughout the remainder of the year. P.A.M. Transportation Services President Robert W. Weaver also sees a stronger economy this year.
Business is robust and fuel prices are at last exhibiting a downward trend.
These positive developments . . . are reflected in much improved results of operations. We are optimistic that this momentum will continue throughout 1997. This combination, along with lower insurance and claims expenses, set the stage for record revenues and a significant improvement in profits, Mr. Powell said. Flatbed carriers Smithway Motor Xpress of Fort Dodge, Iowa, and Boyd Bros. Transportation of Clayton, Ala., each recorded good results. Increased fuel costs and unmanned trucks have hurt earnings and equipment utilization at Cannon Express for over a year, but, according to Chairman Dean Cannon, the situation has improved over the past two months.