Despite the tough economic background, investors should be encouraged by Shanks Group's (LONDON:SKS) pre-close trading update released on 28 September that underlying trading remains in line with expectations. The update shows a slightly mixed picture, with the recovery in the key Dutch solid waste market continuing, but somewhat offset by the negative impact on the Hazardous division from weak oil prices and the delay in opening the Wakefield facility. As a result of circumstances beyond the company’s control, the receivership of one of its project contractors leads to exceptional costs and a small shortfall in profits.