The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday edition that Desjardins Securities Benoit Poirier has reiterated his "buy" recommendation and $82 share target for Stella-Jones. The Globe's David Leeder writes in the Eye On Equities column that analysts on average target the shares at $77. Mr. Poirier says Stella-Jones management's "positive tone" boosted his confidence in the company. He believes "future capital deployment should unlock value for long-term investor." Mr. Poirier says in a note: "Given Stella-Jones recently completed two acquisitions (not part of 2025 targets) as well as the robust demand across many categories, its 2025 targets are poised for upward revisions, in our view. Strong market fundamentals across utility poles and railway ties. Key levers include (1) an ageing network, (2) more recurring weather events, (3) heavier loads requiring bigger poles, (4) increased demand for electricity due to EVs, and (5) the sizable ongoing infrastructure plan in Canada and the US. The acquisition of 1 million additional untreated railway ties should provide greater availability to better serve non Class l/commercial customers, which have a better margin profile and should impact 2024 revenue positively."