Rail supplier news from ARI, Jacobs, HARTING and Aztec (July 29)

For second-quarter 2016, American Railcar Industries Inc. (ARI) reported net earnings of $19.9 million, or $1.02 per share, compared with $33 million, or $1.54 per share, a year ago. Revenue declined 22 percent to $150 million in the quarter, compared with $191 million in the same period last year. The revenue decline was driven primarily by decreased revenue in the manufacturing segment and partially offset by increased revenue in the rail-car leasing and rail-car services segments, ARI officials said in a press release. Revenue from rail-car leasing jumped 18 percent to $33.2 million, compared with $28.2 million in last year's second quarter.

Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. obtained a contract with Network Rail to improve rail links from the Great Western rail line to London's Heathrow International Airport. Under contract terms, Jacobs will support Network Rail's development consent order submission. The initial work will define a preferred option. After a recommendation is made, Jacobs will lead the engineering and environmental design component for the new 3.1 mile tunneled route. That work will include completing the environmental impact assessment, according to a Jacobs press release.

HARTING North America has opened a sales office in Mexico City and a manufacturing plant in Silao, Mexico. The new locations will play a "critical role" in the company's ability to provide North American customers competitive solutions, HARTING officials said in a press release. The new plant joins the company's 13 other manufacturing facilities worldwide.

Aztec Engineering Group Inc. has opened an office in Santa Ana, Calif. The location marks the company's second office in California. Aztec provides engineering and project management services for all elements of rail and transit projects.