Latest news with #SeanBlack
Globe and Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Happy Belly Food Group's Heal Wellness QSR Secures Real-Estate Location for it's Franchisee in the City of Grand Prairie, Alberta
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 22, 2025) - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company"), a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada is pleased to announce that its Heal Wellness brand has secured a real-estate location for its franchisee in the city of Grand Prairie, Alberta. Heal Wellness ("Heal") is a fresh smoothie bowls, acai bowls, and smoothies quick serve restaurant ("QSR"). To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: "We are pleased that in just over two short months we were able to secure our Heal franchisee who signed Heal's 50th franchise agreement on May 13 th, 2025, with a real-estate location expected to open in Q4 2025," said Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly. "Heal Wellness continues to strengthen its development pipeline and drive consistent organic growth with a steady stream of signed franchise agreements and the securing of strategic real estate across Canada. Our progress reinforces our expansion strategy while generating long-term value creation for our shareholders. Our vision remains clear-to establish Heal Wellness as the leading acai bowl and smoothie brand in Canada." To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: As we move into the second half of 2025 and planning for 2026, Happy Belly remains focused on accelerating growth through both organic development and strategic acquisitions. Heal Wellness is rapidly gaining national brand recognition, establishing itself as Canada's first true coast-to-coast smoothie bowl brand as it gains traction across new markets, building customer loyalty and brand visibility at an impressive pace—further validating our long-term vision and the strength of our franchise model. With 195 units secured through national development agreements—Heal is delivering on its promise of scalable, asset-light expansion while deepening customer loyalty and market presence. The progress of Heal's national expansion reflects Happy Belly's core vision and commitment to building a leading force in the Canadian QSR sector." "The broader Happy Belly portfolio now boasts 616 contractually committed retail locations across various stages of development, construction, and operation. This momentum—fueled by a proven franchise model, experienced operators, and strategic site selection—is translating into meaningful and shareholder value. As we scale nationally with a repeatable, asset-light framework, we are laying the foundation for sustained and predictable growth across our entire brand ecosystem through 2026 and beyond." "We are just getting started," said Sean Black. Neighborhood Grande Prairie, Alberta presents a strong opportunity for a smoothie and açaí bowl restaurant due to its youthful, health-conscious population, growing economy, and limited competition in the health-focused fast-casual space. As a regional hub for northwestern Alberta, the city attracts not only local residents but also consumers from surrounding communities, expanding the potential customer base. The city's active lifestyle culture—supported by recreational facilities, parks, and fitness centers—aligns well with demand for nutritious, on-the-go food options. With a population nearing 70,000 and steady economic growth driven by diverse industries, Grande Prairie offers the right mix of demographics, disposable income, and market gap to support the success of a wellness-oriented food concept. About Heal Wellness Heal Wellness was founded with a passion and mission to provide quick, fresh wellness foods that support a busy and active lifestyle. We currently offer a diverse range of smoothie bowls and smoothies. We take pride in meticulously selecting every superfood ingredient on our menu to fuel the body, including acai smoothie bowls, smoothies, and super-seed grain bowls. Our smoothie bowls are crafted with real fruit and enriched with superfoods like acai, pitaya, goji berries, chia seeds, and more. Franchising For franchising inquiries please see or contact us at hello@ About Happy Belly Food Group Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company") is a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada. Happy Belly 3 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Sean Black Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer Shawn Moniz Co-Founder, Chief Operating Officer Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur and include the future performance of Happy Belly and her subsidiaries. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the business plans for Happy Belly described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Happy Belly Food Group's Heal Wellness QSR Secures Real-Estate Location for it's Franchisee in the City of Grand Prairie, Alberta
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 22, 2025) - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company"), a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada is pleased to announce that its Heal Wellness brand has secured a real-estate location for its franchisee in the city of Grand Prairie, Alberta. Heal Wellness ("Heal") is a fresh smoothie bowls, acai bowls, and smoothies quick serve restaurant ("QSR"). Happy Belly 1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: "We are pleased that in just over two short months we were able to secure our Heal franchisee who signed Heal's 50th franchise agreement on May 13th, 2025, with a real-estate location expected to open in Q4 2025," said Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly. "Heal Wellness continues to strengthen its development pipeline and drive consistent organic growth with a steady stream of signed franchise agreements and the securing of strategic real estate across Canada. Our progress reinforces our expansion strategy while generating long-term value creation for our shareholders. Our vision remains clear-to establish Heal Wellness as the leading acai bowl and smoothie brand in Canada." Happy Belly 2 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: As we move into the second half of 2025 and planning for 2026, Happy Belly remains focused on accelerating growth through both organic development and strategic acquisitions. Heal Wellness is rapidly gaining national brand recognition, establishing itself as Canada's first true coast-to-coast smoothie bowl brand as it gains traction across new markets, building customer loyalty and brand visibility at an impressive pace—further validating our long-term vision and the strength of our franchise model. With 195 units secured through national development agreements—Heal is delivering on its promise of scalable, asset-light expansion while deepening customer loyalty and market presence. The progress of Heal's national expansion reflects Happy Belly's core vision and commitment to building a leading force in the Canadian QSR sector.""The broader Happy Belly portfolio now boasts 616 contractually committed retail locations across various stages of development, construction, and operation. This momentum—fueled by a proven franchise model, experienced operators, and strategic site selection—is translating into meaningful and shareholder value. As we scale nationally with a repeatable, asset-light framework, we are laying the foundation for sustained and predictable growth across our entire brand ecosystem through 2026 and beyond." "We are just getting started," said Sean Black. Neighborhood Grande Prairie, Alberta presents a strong opportunity for a smoothie and açaí bowl restaurant due to its youthful, health-conscious population, growing economy, and limited competition in the health-focused fast-casual space. As a regional hub for northwestern Alberta, the city attracts not only local residents but also consumers from surrounding communities, expanding the potential customer base. The city's active lifestyle culture—supported by recreational facilities, parks, and fitness centers—aligns well with demand for nutritious, on-the-go food options. With a population nearing 70,000 and steady economic growth driven by diverse industries, Grande Prairie offers the right mix of demographics, disposable income, and market gap to support the success of a wellness-oriented food concept. About Heal WellnessHeal Wellness was founded with a passion and mission to provide quick, fresh wellness foods that support a busy and active lifestyle. We currently offer a diverse range of smoothie bowls and smoothies. We take pride in meticulously selecting every superfood ingredient on our menu to fuel the body, including acai smoothie bowls, smoothies, and super-seed grain bowls. Our smoothie bowls are crafted with real fruit and enriched with superfoods like acai, pitaya, goji berries, chia seeds, and franchising inquiries please see or contact us at hello@ About Happy Belly Food GroupHappy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company") is a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada. Happy Belly 3 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Sean BlackCo-Founder, Chief Executive Officer Shawn MonizCo-Founder, Chief Operating Officer FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:www: or email hello@ you wish to contact us please call: 1-877-589-8805 Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur and include the future performance of Happy Belly and her subsidiaries. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the business plans for Happy Belly described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on To view the source version of this press release, please visit Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Happy Belly Food Group's Rosie's Burgers Announces the Signing of a Franchise Agreement and Real Estate Location for Waterloo, Ontario's Uptown Neighborhood
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 21, 2025) - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company"), a leading consolidator of emerging food brands, is pleased to announce the signing of a franchise agreement and real estate location for Rosie's Burgers in Waterloo, Ontario's Uptown Neighborhood. Rosie's Burgers ("Rosie's") is a boutique QSR restaurant brand serving original recipe smash burgers, poutine, onion rings, milkshakes and more. "Securing Ontario's 8 th real estate location for Rosie's marks another step forward in our 30-unit development commitment for the province. Opening of this Waterloo location is expected in Q4 of 2025. Our team is already ahead of our development schedule and have more locations scheduled for 2025 & 2026. We are actively leveraging our franchise network to drive accelerated growth and secure high-quality, strategic real estate across the country for our partners," said Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly. Waterloo, Ontario, is an ideal location for Rosie's thanks to its strong demographic mix and consistent foot traffic driven by its two major post-secondary institutions: the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University. With tens of thousands of students, faculty, and staff moving through campus areas daily, the city offers a built-in customer base seeking fast, satisfying, and affordable meals. This dense concentration of young, on-the-go consumers creates a natural fit for our Rosie's brand that delivers bold flavor and quality service. Beyond the university crowd, Waterloo's booming tech and innovation sector attracts professionals and families who appreciate high-quality yet casual dining experiences. The constant energy in the town core and surrounding neighborhoods, combined with Waterloo's reputation for embracing new, on-trend food brands, makes it a prime market for us as we believe this to be a premium location for our newest Rosie's location. Rosie's Burgers 2 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: "As Happy Belly continues to grow its footprint in the Canadian QSR sector, we're witnessing strong nationwide momentum, supported by an influx of prime real estate opportunities for our brands. Our asset-light franchising approach—paired with careful site selection, comprehensive training programs, focused marketing initiatives, and consistent operational support—sets our franchise partners up for long-term success. The trust placed in our platform by experienced operators is a testament to the credibility of our systems, the strength of our leadership, and the clarity of our brand vision. We remain actively engaged in conversations with groups coast to coast to accelerate the expansion of Rosie's Burgers and the broader Happy Belly portfolio. As we continue to add new locations and solidify our presence in key markets, our focus remains on building a scalable, disciplined growth engine and delivering sustained value for our shareholders as Canada's leading restaurant consolidator. "With 115 Rosie's locations already secured under Multi-Unit and Area Development agreements across key provinces—including Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan—the brand is set to scale rapidly in the years ahead. Our dual expansion strategy, combining franchised growth with targeted corporate store openings, reinforces our commitment to accelerating Rosie's development. With a proven track record in the burger space, a solid foundation in organic growth, and a high-performing franchise model, Rosie's Burgers is on track to become Canada's leading smash burger brand. Rosie's Burgers 3 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: "With 616 retail locations for all brands across our Happy Belly portfolio under Multi-Unit and Area Development agreements—spanning projects in development, under construction, or already open—our franchise pipeline is growing. By carefully selecting the right partners and prime real estate, we will maintain momentum and achieve our disciplined growth objectives through 2026. " We are just getting started," said Sean Black. About Rosie's Burgers Deliciously handcrafted smashed burgers, golden fries, and classic milkshakes. Rosie's is your neighbourhood burger shop serving up nostalgic flavours you know, love, and crave. From our Smashburgers and French fries to strawberry shakes and onion rings—we're all about keeping things simple and perfecting tradition. Because the classics were made classic for a reason, right? Franchising For franchising inquiries please see or contact us at hello@ Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company") is a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada. Happy Belly Food Group To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Sean Black Chief Executive Officer Shawn Moniz Chief Operating Officer Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur and include the future performance of Happy Belly and her subsidiaries. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the business plans for Happy Belly described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on
Times
4 days ago
- Politics
- Times
Record entire killing process of farmed Salmon on CCTV, guidance says
Britain's biggest animal welfare charity has called for a ban on suffocating farmed salmon to be enshrined in law. The RSPCA has welcomed new Scottish government guidance designed to make the slaughter of 55 million fish a year more humane. But the charity wants legislators in Holyrood and Westminster to make the new rules — which also recommend pre-stunning salmon and recording the entire killing process on CCTV — legally binding. Sean Black, the senior scientific officer of aquaculture at the RSPCA, said: 'Ultimately protecting all salmon can only be achieved by mandatory rather than voluntary standards put in place further to protect salmon welfare.' He added: 'We believe that issuing guidance does not go far enough and urge the Scottish government to do something more meaningful and introduce legislation to protect salmon at the time of slaughter. 'Nevertheless, we're pleased that our pioneering standards have been influential in developing the Scottish government's own guidance on this issue. Whilst our standards cover over 70 per cent of farmed Scottish salmon, we wish to see all farmed salmon have this protection, so this guidance is a big step forward. 'Sadly there is no detailed or specific legislation to protect farmed fish including at the time of killing and, for too long, there has been a reliance on voluntary schemes such as the RSPCA Assured scheme, which has detailed requirements to better safeguard fish welfare at all stages of their lives.' Some animal rights campaigners have said that the RSPCA's seal of approval has been used as a cover for what they regard as cruel practices in fish farming. The new guidance comes after scientists discovered that fish — including salmon — are sentient and can feel pain and distress. For much of human history the main way of killing fish was to take them out of the water, asphyxiating them. This is now regarded as inhumane. RSPCA wants it legally banned. The charity also wants a requirement that equipment used in slaughter facilities is fit for purpose, that all staff are trained and competent, and all phases are covered by CCTV. Other animal welfare organisations have also urged the Scottish government to legalise the guidance, warning that without enforcement, the measures may not be respected. Dr Iain Berrill, the technical head of Salmon Scotland, said: 'Scottish salmon farmers already meet the highest animal health and welfare standards anywhere on the globe. 'All farm-raised Scottish salmon are stunned and slaughtered in seconds, in harvest stations that are independently certified and covered by CCTV to ensure that the highest humane slaughter standards are met or exceeded. 'We've worked closely with the Scottish government to develop this guidance and would be happy to work with Scottish ministers to ensure any future legislation in this area is appropriate to our sector.'
Globe and Mail
09-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Happy Belly Food Group's Heal Wellness QSR Announces the Opening of Its Newest Location in Calgary's Kensington Neighborhood, Alberta
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 9, 2025) - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company"), a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada, is pleased to announce the opening of its 27 th Heal Wellness, located in Calgary's vibrant Kensington neighborhood, Alberta. Heal Wellness (" Heal") is a fresh smoothie bowls, acai bowls, and smoothies quick serve restaurant (" QSR"). The Grand opening will be located at 201-10th Street North West, this Saturday July 12 th, 2025. Heal Wellness 1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: "With the soft opening already underway, this latest location marks our 27th operating store for Heal Wellness, proudly serving guests across Canada with several more currently under construction and scheduled to launch throughout 2025," said Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly. "The momentum we're experiencing with Heal Wellness—and across the Happy Belly portfolio of emerging brands—continues to accelerate as we rapidly expand our footprint through both corporate and franchised locations. Our disciplined strategy of combining organic growth with strategic acquisitions is delivering tangible results. "What's especially exciting is that customers from coast to coast are beginning to recognize Heal as Canada's first truly national smoothie bowl brand. We're seeing growing brand awareness and loyalty in every new market we enter, validating our vision and reinforcing the strength of our franchise system. Franchisees are responding with confidence—many of our existing partners are expanding into multi-unit ownership, which shows tremendous trust they place in our brands and our operational model. This strong franchise engagement, paired with our scalable and asset-light approach, continues to unlock value for our stakeholders. For our investors, this rollout is a clear signal of our long-term growth trajectory and our commitment to building a leading force in the Canadian QSR landscape. "With each new restaurant opening our national footprint continues to expand. Heal's first-mover advantage in our chosen markets has enabled us to experience significant growth with more units now under construction in Alberta, Ontario and P.E.I. Supported by 195 units for Heal Wellness already secured under development agreements stretching coast to coast, we have set the stage for continued, predictable expansion for Heal. Heal Wellness 2 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: "The Happy Belly portfolio has 616 retail locations under contract—spanning projects in development, under construction, or already open—our franchise pipeline is robust. By carefully selecting the right partners and prime real estate, we will maintain momentum and achieve our disciplined growth objectives through 2026. "We are just getting started," said Sean Black. About Heal Wellness Heal Wellness was founded with a passion and mission to provide quick, fresh wellness foods that support a busy and active lifestyle. We currently offer a diverse range of smoothie bowls and smoothies. We take pride in meticulously selecting every superfood ingredient on our menu to fuel the body, including acai smoothie bowls, smoothies, and super-seed grain bowls. Our smoothie bowls are crafted with real fruit and enriched with superfoods like acai, pitaya, goji berries, chia seeds, and more. Franchising For franchising inquiries please see or contact us at hello@ Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company") is a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada. Happy Belly Food Group To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Sean Black Chief Executive Officer Shawn Moniz Chief Operating Officer FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur and include the future performance of Happy Belly and her subsidiaries. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the business plans for Happy Belly described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on
