The company’s sales for 2005 were also up 22% to C$157.1m, due to continued strength in the utility pole and railway tie markets.
Organic growth accounted for two-thirds of Stella-Jones’ C$28.1m sales increase last year, while a recently-acquired railway tie facility in Wisconsin contributed sales of C$9.8m.
President and CEO Brian McManus said: “The North American railroad industry is in a strong growth phase, with many national and short line railroads reporting record rail traffic. This trend is translating into increased demand for railway ties as railroads expand their capacity in busy corridors and maintain their existing infrastructure.”
The company saw a sales dip for industrial treated wood, consumer lumber and overseas utility pole exports.
Stella-Jones is planning further growth and is currently in takeover discussions with the US$60m turnover Bell Lumber & Pole Company.
