Profits soared on decreased revenue as the Mondovi-based refrigerated trucking firm cut costs. With lower expenses, Marten's operating profit margin improved from 3.8% to 5.9%. Earnings beat analysts' 13.8 cents a share estimate. Before Tuesday's announcement, Marten stock rose 58 cents to close at $19.22.

1st quarter %

3/31 2009 2008 change

Sales $122.0 $143.4 -14.9

Net income 4.1 2.7 +52.8

EPS (diluted) 0.18 0.12 +50.0

Sales totals include revenue from fuel surcharges. Those aside, sales fell 3.6% in the most recent quarter. Figures in millions except for earnings per share. Percentages are based on unrounded sales and income figures.

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