Stella-Jones Unveils 2026-2028 Financial Objectives and Outlines its Future Growth Plans

Core Viewpoint - Stella-Jones Inc. is set to unveil its financial objectives and capital allocation priorities for the 2026-2028 period, emphasizing a growth strategy focused on operational excellence and value creation for stakeholders [1][2]. Financial Objectives - The company has introduced a three-year financial objective framework, starting with the Q4 2026 financial reports, to maintain a three-year outlook [3]. - Key financial targets for 2026-2028 include: - Annual Sales: Targeting approximately $4,000 million by 2028, up from approximately $3,500 million [4]. - Annual Organic Sales Growth: Aiming for a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4-5%, compared to 4.5% CAGR for 2023-2025 [4]. - EBITDA Margin: Targeting 17.5-18.5%, slightly below the 17.9% margin achieved in 2023-2025 [4]. - Earnings Per Share (EPS): Aiming for greater than 10% CAGR, a new metric introduced for better alignment with growth strategy [4]. Capital Allocation Strategy - The company expects to maintain an EBITDA-to-free cash flow conversion rate of approximately 50% [5]. - Key priorities in the capital allocation strategy include: - Broadening its vision to be the supplier of choice for utilities and railroads [5]. - Targeting annual sales of approximately $4 billion by 2028, supported by the current asset base [5]. - Maintaining an elevated EBITDA margin of 17.5-18.5% [5]. - Introducing an EPS growth target of greater than 10% to align with strategic objectives [5]. - Shifting to an opportunistic share repurchase strategy in line with growth priorities [5]. Maintenance and Growth Capital Expenditures - The company plans to invest approximately 2.5% of sales annually in maintenance capital expenditures, translating to $85 to $95 million per year [6]. - Strategic growth opportunities will involve investments in capital expenditures and value-accretive acquisitions [6]. Commitment to Financial Health - Stella-Jones is committed to maintaining an investment-grade credit rating and a net debt-to-EBITDA ratio within the range of 2.0x-2.5x, with some flexibility for working capital and strategic investments [7]. Key Assumptions - The financial targets for 2026-2028 are based on several assumptions, including organic sales growth in wood utility poles and railway ties, and the impact of recent acquisitions [13].