Investors Open to Trucking

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nvestors with capital to put to work are much more receptive to entreaties from trucking executives seeking debt relief and equity financing than they have been in recent years, according to bankers, investment analysts and fleet executives.

Motor carriers have raised about $1.8 billion from the sale of stock since 2002, after pulling in only $39.4 million in 2000 and 2001. The industry’s balance sheet was bolstered, which attracted banks and leasing companies, as trucking’s financial prospects continued to improve.

“We have money that wants to enter the transportation field,” said Joel McGinley, owner of TranStrategy Inc., a consulting firm based in Sherwood, Ore., that provides company valuations and advice on mergers and acquisitions.

For the full story, see the Jan. 3 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.