Menzies Shuts Down Cargo Handling At ORD

Jan. 8, 2013
Menzies exited similar operations recently at Glasgow, Birmingham, East Midlands and Manchester airports

Scottish group John Menzies said yesterday restructuring work at both its divisions would lead to an £18million ($29 million) hit on profits.

The airport service provider and newspaper distributor added that despite the exceptional charge in its annual results the overhaul would leave the group in a stronger position with a more stable platform for growth.

Edinburgh-based Menzies said its 2012 results would be in line with expectations.

It also said its aviation arm was to close loss-making cargo-handling operations in Chicago, having looked at alternative options for two years.

The decision will lead to a one-off £7million ($11 million) charge in the 2012 figures but earnings before interest and tax are expected to be boosted by £1.4million ($2.2 million) this year as a result of the closure.

Menzies exited similar operations recently at Glasgow, Birmingham, East Midlands and Manchester airports, allowing it to focus on a single facility at Heathrow.

The company also said finance director Paul Dollman would step down at its AGM in May to concentrate on building a "portfolio career".

Chairman Ian Napier said: "Paul has done an outstanding job for John Menzies over the last 10 years.

"He has been an integral part of the executive team and has played a key role in the success of the group. A full search process (for a replacement) is under way and we will make a further announcement at the appropriate time."

Menzies employs 17,000 people at Menzies Aviation, which operates at around 130 airports in 29 countries. The distribution arm has a 4,000-strong workforce and handles around 5million newspapers and 2.1 million magazines every day.

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