DETROIT (Reuters) - Trucking and logistics company Con-way Inc (CNW.N: Quote, Profile, Research) reported on Wednesday a worse-than-expected quarterly net profit, citing poor weather conditions and a lackluster business climate.

The company also lowered its outlook for the full year citing the weak economy and spiraling fuel costs, and its shares fell over 9 percent in extended trading.

"We're operating in a challenging and uncertain economic environment, which continues to restrain demand and place pressure on pricing and margins," Chief Executive Douglas Stotlar said in a statement.

The San Mateo, California-based company reported first-quarter net income from continuing operations of $22.5 million or 47 cents per share, down from $24.9 million or 51 cents per share a year earlier.

Excluding items, Con-way earned 54 cents in the quarter.

Wall Street analysts had on average expected earnings per share for the quarter of 60 cents excluding items, according to Reuters Estimates.

Revenue in the quarter rose to $1.2 billion from $1 billion a year earlier. Analysts had predicted revenue of $1.19 billion.

Con-way said winter weather had contributed to the lower profit, as it had in the winter a year ago, taking an estimated 4 cents off earnings per share in both years. But the weakening U.S. economy added to problems this time around.

"Based on current economic data and feedback from our customers, there appear to be few catalysts to accelerate demand in the freight markets, at least in the short term," Stotlar said. "The current economy notwithstanding, I was encouraged by modest growth at (main unit) Con-way Freight in the quarter as targeted, customer-specific sales initiatives produced results and increased market share."