Can anyone seriously have expected MAG to have announced loads of new routes and airlines when the all the "proper" formalities need to be sorted out. They could hardly have gone to an airline whilst discussing the bid and said..."We may be buying Stansted. We'd like you to start services to Shangri-La using your most modern equipment. We're not in a position to give you an figures regarding the costs of operating into Stansted if we take over but surely you can estimate and give us your opinion?"
if they can't get airlines to start routes with known demand to the main airport in the group despite talking to them for years, perhaps you will then reign in what your expectations are.
As for ground-handling, if it was that worthwhile then other companies would be aiming to launch their operations. That one has transferred business to a competitor speaks volumes about the profitability of providing such services at STN.