The Globe and Mail reports in its Thursday edition that Stifel analyst Martin Landry is keeping his "buy" recommendation for Alimentation Couche-Tard intact. The Globe's David Leeder writes that Mr. Landry gave his share target a $3 boost to $88. Analysts on average target the shares at $84.36. Mr. Landry figures Couche-Tard's improving operating metrics will "bring hope" to investors. He sees Couche-Tard making retail gains south of the border. Mr. Landry says in a note: "Couche-Tard delivered good Q2FY26 results ahead of expectations. U.S. merchandise sales continued their recovery supported by the company's successful food program, a well-executed nicotine pouch promotion and sustained strength in energy drinks sales. Same-store-sales growth of 1.2 per cent year-over-year reassured investors that the days of declines are behind us and that the recovery is firmly underway. Merchandise margins surprised to the upside in all three regions with U.S. merchandise margins reaching their second-highest level in the last 10 years. Couche-Tard appears to have several levers to further enhance merchandise margins. ... The next catalyst could be an M&A announcement or the company's business strategy update on Feb. 11, 2026."