John Menzies plc, the time-critical logistics company, today issues a trading update ahead of its interim results for the half year ending 30 June 2007, which will be announced on Tuesday 4 September 2007.

 

Trading performance across the Group remains in line with our expectations.

 

Menzies Aviation has had a good start to the year having gained significant new contracts which are offsetting lower than anticipated cargo volumes. Start up costs associated to these contracts are affecting the first half result, however, the overall position for the year remains as anticipated.

 

In the first half we completed the acquisition of UAC, a freight forwarding business which complements our existing AMI operation and we continue to look for further appropriate acquisitive opportunities.

 

Menzies Distribution continues to operate in an evolving marketplace. Like for like magazine volumes are down in the second quarter on last year but this is in line with our expectations. Cost initiatives highlighted at the year end remain on track and we expect the savings to be delivered.

 

During the first half we completed the acquisition of Leadenhall News, and we await regulatory approval for the acquisition of Grays Newsagents of York.

 

The Board believes that further progress will be made in the second half and that full year trading for 2007 will be in line with our expectations.

 

 

 

 

Paul Dollman, Group Finance Director, John Menzies plc	0131 459 8018
John Geddes, Company Secretary, John Menzies plc	0131 459 8180