As Saia looks to the last half of 2009, we, like most other carriers, are still operating in an enormously turbulent economic environment. We also recognize that many of our customers continue to struggle against unprecedented challenges brought on by the declining economy. While no one really knows when the economy will begin to see true, sustained recovery, a few recent indicators have provided some hope that we all have seen the worst of this downturn.
As a leader in the LTL industry for 85 years, I want our customers to know that Saia is working hard to fulfill their shipping needs during these tough times by providing both real value and great customer service. Now, more than ever, Saia is focused on these core fundamentals as we all navigate through this downturn. Indeed providing great service is a mantra we take very seriously at Saia.
With regard to customer service, I am very proud that Saia has consistently posted over 97% on-time service this entire year. Additionally, our second quarter on-time service was 98% in our intra-state lanes. We know that offering great, reliable service during challenges times means one less worry our customer's have to be concerned about.
Another important focus at Saia is our support and service to our employees and their families. It has saddened all of us to see staff reductions over this past year but we have also tried to recognize our employees through various programs to thank them for their perseverance. Recently, a new employee recognition program, which began last year, ended recently with over 200 employees receiving special recognition for their service to each other and Saia's customers. We are extremely proud of our employees at Saia and recognize that they are our most important asset.
I also am pleased to announce that we awarded 12 students scholarships totaling $18,000 as part of the company's 2009 Scholarship Award Program. The immense response Saia sees each year to the program demonstrates the great interest employees and their dependents have in building a solid educational future. We feel it an honor to be able to support our employees and their dependents in this manner - most especially during tough economic times when student loans and scholarships are in great demand. Indeed, since the program's inception in 2003, we have awarded a total of $105,000 to 70 students.
As is often quoted, "To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity." Service is a drumbeat we march to every day at Saia. Let us show you how serious we are when it comes to service - whether it's to our employees, their families, or our shippers.
Sincerely,
Rick O'Dell President & CEO