Wincanton expects continued profit rise

Wincanton expects its half-yearly figures in November to continue to show the increased profit and turnover it recorded in its last financial year. In its pre-close season update for the six months to 30 September, the £1.9bn-turnover haulier said its business momentum "has been maintained in the first half of the current year".

The group highlighted major new contracts with Adidas, Gallo and Tragus, as well as increased business with B&Q, Comet, Sainsbury's and Woolworths. In the year to 31 March 2007 Wincanton's turnover rose 6.8% to £1.93bn, with pre-tax profits up from £31.3m to £32.6 million.

Despite the increase in business, Wincanton has closed depots at Tewkesbury and Ross-on-Wye, with the loss of 180 drivers' jobs. The closures were caused by a reorganisation of distribution for supermarket Somerfield.