Happy Belly Food Group's Via Cibo Italian Fast-Casual Restaurant Signs a 10 Unit Development Agreement in Alberta

Core Viewpoint - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. has signed an area development agreement to open ten franchised Via Cibo Italian restaurants in Alberta, indicating strong market confidence and growth potential for the brand [1][3][4]. Company Overview - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. is a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada [10]. - The company operates an asset-light model, focusing on franchising to expand its portfolio [8]. Development Agreement - The new agreement includes the opening of ten Via Cibo locations, building on the existing five locations already operating in Alberta [3][7]. - This expansion reflects the company's confidence in the market opportunity and the brand's performance [3][4]. Market Potential - Alberta is characterized by strong population growth, urban density, and a vibrant dining culture, making it an ideal location for Via Cibo's fast-casual Italian concept [4]. - The agreement highlights the confidence that franchise partners have in Happy Belly's disciplined growth strategy [4]. Brand Performance - Via Cibo currently has eight locations open and 25 in development, contributing to a total of 656 contractually committed retail franchise locations across various emerging brands [7]. - The company emphasizes a predictable and disciplined growth engine that aims to deliver measurable results and long-term value for shareholders [7].