Apr 16, 2004 11:09 AM, from staff and wire reports

Werner Enterprises Inc, the Omaha NE-based truckload transportation company, reported its 10th consecutive year-over-year quarter of higher operating revenues and earnings for the first quarter ended March 31, 2004.

Operating revenues increased 11% to $386.3 million compared with $347.2 million in first-quarter 2003. Net income rose 31% to $15.6 million versus $11.8 million in first-quarter 2003. Earnings per share for first-quarter 2004 were $.19 per share, or 32% higher than the $.15 per share in first-quarter 2003.

"During first quarter, we were pleased that the demand for our services was stronger than the weaker demand of first quarter a year ago," said Clarence "C L" Werner, chairman and chief executive officer. "Typically, we experience a noticeable decline in freight volumes from the seasonally strong fourth quarter to the seasonally weaker first quarter.”."