Danish ro-ro operator DFDS is expecting "growth and progress" this year after a difficult 2009.

Last year, DFDS achieved revenues of Dkr6.5bn (US$1.2bn), compared with Dkr8.1bn in 2008, and an operating profit of Dkr786m, compared with Dkr1bn in 2008. It also bought cross-Channel and Irish Sea ferry operator Norfolkline.

Niels Smedegaard, CEO of DFDS, said: "2009 was a very challenging year and this is reflected in the numbers of the annual report."

"On the other hand, the result is among best in class of our sector, and that is an important benchmark for us. "