NEW YORK and TORONTO, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- iAnthus Capital Holdings, Inc. (“iAnthus” or the “Company”) (CSE: IAN, OTCID: ITHUF), which owns, operates and partners with regulated cannabis operations across the United States, announces continued progress across its retail expansion, brand development and capital structure initiatives. In Florida, the Company plans to open its 26th GrowHealthy dispensary in Tequesta, FL, further expanding its footprint in a core market. GrowHealthy’s Tequesta disp ...

Industry Overview - The U.S. cannabis sector is at a critical inflection point as of February 2026, with improved market sentiment but selective investor interest [1] - Long-term demand for cannabis continues to grow despite price volatility, with state-level legalization expanding and medical programs remaining stable [2] - Profitability is now prioritized over rapid expansion, leading companies to tighten operations and protect margins [3] Company Highlights Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (TCNNF) - Trulieve is a dominant cannabis operator in the U.S., operating a vertically integrated business model across cultivation, processing, distribution, and retail sales [4] - The company has a significant presence in Florida, which serves as its core revenue engine, while also expanding into states like Pennsylvania, Arizona, Maryland, Ohio, and Connecticut [5] - As of early 2026, Trulieve operates over 230 dispensaries nationwide, enhancing brand visibility and customer loyalty [7] - The company focuses on disciplined expansion, targeting profitable markets to remain competitive during industry slowdowns [9] - Financially, Trulieve emphasizes cash flow and balance sheet strength, with stable revenue and healthy gross margins despite pricing pressure [10] - Management has taken steps to address near-term debt obligations, improving liquidity and reducing financial risk [11] - Trulieve continues generating meaningful EBITDA and maintains sufficient cash reserves for selective growth [12] - The company is well-positioned for future growth as regulatory clarity improves [13] Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. (CURLF) - Curaleaf is the largest cannabis company in the U.S. by revenue, operating across numerous states and markets, providing diversification and risk mitigation [13] - The company operates over 160 dispensaries, with a significant retail presence in Florida and strong positions in New Jersey, New York, Arizona, and Illinois [14] - Curaleaf focuses on operational efficiency, optimizing existing assets rather than aggressive expansion, which helps preserve margins [17] - Financially, Curaleaf generates over a billion dollars in annual revenue, with recent trends showing stabilization and improved gross margins [18] - The company is focused on reducing expenses and streamlining operations, with debt management being a priority [19] - While net profitability remains elusive, losses have narrowed, reflecting disciplined spending and operational focus [20] Verano Holdings Corp. (VRNOF) - Verano is a vertically integrated cannabis operator with a footprint in key markets such as Illinois, Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Arizona [21] - The company operates retail dispensaries under brands like Zen Leaf and MÜV, maintaining a strategically placed retail network [22] - Verano emphasizes product quality and consistent branding to attract loyal customers, balancing retail growth with operational discipline [24] - Financially, Verano has faced revenue pressure but has focused on cost control to protect margins [25] - The company has significant net losses due to ongoing investments and restructuring costs, but prioritizes operational efficiency [26] - Verano is considered a higher-risk, higher-reward operator, with potential upside if market conditions improve [26]

Core Viewpoint - Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. has opened a new dispensary in Englewood, Ohio, expanding its retail presence in the state's regulated cannabis market, catering to both medical and non-medical customers [1][2]. Group 1: Company Expansion - The new dispensary in Englewood is part of Ascend's strategy to enhance its retail footprint in Ohio, where it already operates multiple locations [2]. - Ascend aims to provide safe access and quality products while focusing on a patient- and customer-centric retail experience [2]. Group 2: Grand Opening and Community Engagement - A grand opening event is scheduled for January 16, inviting local patients, customers, and community members to explore the new facility and learn about Ascend's product offerings [3]. - The dispensary is designed to create an efficient and welcoming shopping experience, featuring a variety of cannabis products from leading brands [4]. Group 3: Product Offering and Customer Engagement - The Englewood dispensary will offer a wide range of cannabis products, including flower, vapes, edibles, and concentrates, with options for in-store or online purchases [4]. - Ascend has introduced a revamped loyalty program, the Ascenders Club, to reward customers for their purchases and in-store deals [5]. Group 4: Operational Details - The Englewood dispensary will operate daily from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., serving both medical and non-medical customers [6]. - For further information about Ascend and its dispensaries, customers can visit the company's website [6]. Group 5: Company Overview - Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. is a vertically integrated cannabis operator with assets across several states, including Ohio, and produces a curated selection of cannabis products for retail and wholesale [7].

Core Insights - The U.S. cannabis sector is evolving with regulatory momentum, and strong operators are positioning for long-term growth as of January 2026 [1] Group 1: Trulieve Cannabis Corp. - Trulieve Cannabis Corp. is a leading multistate operator with a dominant presence in Florida and over 190 dispensaries nationwide, supporting strong brand recognition and retail traffic [2][4] - The company emphasizes vertical integration and customer loyalty programs, which contribute to strong repeat customer visits and controlled expansion [2][4] - Financially, Trulieve focuses on stability, generating strong quarterly revenue and maintaining high gross margins, while also producing positive operating cash flow and reducing debt [4] Group 2: Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. - Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. operates approximately 150 dispensaries across key markets such as Florida, Massachusetts, New York, and California, with extensive cultivation and processing facilities [6][8] - The company offers a diverse product portfolio and is expanding internationally, which diversifies revenue sources beyond the U.S. market [6][8] - Despite facing pricing competition and regulatory costs, Curaleaf generates positive operating cash flow and is focusing on cost reductions to stabilize profitability [8] Group 3: Cresco Labs Inc. - Cresco Labs Inc. is known for its branded product strategy and operates in high-value U.S. markets, including Illinois and Pennsylvania, with a strong emphasis on wholesale distribution [9][11] - The company's recent financial performance shows stable quarterly revenue and narrowing net losses, indicating potential stabilization despite industry headwinds [11] - Cresco benefits from improving wholesale demand and may gain from potential federal policy developments that could enhance profitability [11]

Industry Overview - The U.S. cannabis market is projected to approach $45 billion in sales by 2025, with analysts expecting double-digit annual growth through 2030 [1] - More states are supporting recreational cannabis access, and medical adoption is expanding nationwide [1] - Recent news indicates that President Trump may issue an executive order to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, which could ease restrictions on research, taxation, and investment [1] Trading Insights - Traders are advised to adopt a disciplined process, utilizing technical analysis to identify momentum before volume surges [2] - Key indicators include moving-average curls, trendline breaks, and heavy bid stacking near support [2] - Position sizing should remain small due to the high volatility associated with penny stocks [2] Company Highlights AYR Wellness Inc. (AYRWF) - AYR Wellness is a multi-state cannabis operator based in Miami, Florida, focusing on medical and adult-use cannabis [6] - The company has a vertically integrated structure with cultivation, processing, and retail operations across several states [6] - Financially, AYR reported stagnant revenue year-over-year, with losses expanding due to increased operational costs and competitive pricing pressure [8] FLUENT (CNTMF) - FLUENT is a vertically integrated cannabis company headquartered in Tampa, Florida, with operations in cultivation, manufacturing, and retail [9] - The company has a significant presence in Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania, operating over thirty dispensaries [9] - Recent financial results showed nearly flat revenue year-over-year, with margins compressed due to pricing mix and processing inefficiencies [10] Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CURLF) - Curaleaf is one of the largest cannabis retailers in the U.S., with about 150 retail locations and a diverse product offering [12] - The company has seen revenue growth as new adult-use markets opened, although profitability remains uncertain due to high compliance and operational costs [13] - Curaleaf's extensive retail network provides a competitive advantage, positioning the company well for future growth as federal reforms progress [13] Market Sentiment - The cannabis trade in December focuses on positioning rather than certainty, with stocks like AYRWF, CNTMF, and CURLF providing exposure to real dispensaries and revenue [14] - Improving state access and consumer demand could lead to a stronger industry outlook in 2026 [14]

Core Insights - iAnthus Capital Holdings, Inc. has expanded its operations by opening its 25th GrowHealthy dispensary in St. Petersburg, Florida, enhancing access to premium cannabis products for patients [1][4] Company Overview - iAnthus is a vertically integrated cannabis company focused on building premium brands through cultivation, production, and retail operations across the United States [6] - The company’s brand portfolio includes MPX, Anthologie, Black Label, Cheetah, Frūtful, Last Resort, Moodz, Sunshine State, and The Vault [6] New Dispensary Details - The St. Petersburg dispensary features an expanded lineup of premium product brands, including The Vault, MPX, and Sunshine State, providing patients with greater choice and quality [2][3] - The dispensary is designed to create a local feel while ensuring high-quality service and product consistency [3][4] - Located at 4831 34 Street South, the dispensary operates Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. [5] Commitment to Patient Experience - The opening of the St. Petersburg location reflects iAnthus' commitment to enhancing patient access and improving the cannabis retail experience in Florida [4] - The company emphasizes a compassionate, educational, and genuine connection with patients, aiming to create a welcoming environment [4]

Core Insights - Simply Solventless Concentrates Ltd. (SSC) reported significant financial growth for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, with revenue increasing by 199% to $34.5 million compared to $11.5 million in the same period of 2024 [2][6][3] - The company achieved an Adjusted EBITDA of $7.5 million, reflecting a 379% increase from a loss of $2.7 million in the previous year [3][6] - SSC has expanded its product offerings with 91 new product listings across Canada, including entries into two new provinces expected to generate cash flow in early Q1 2026 [2][10][14] Financial Highlights - **Nine-Month Financial Performance**: - Gross Revenue: $34.5 million (up 199% YoY from $11.5 million) - Net Revenue: $27.2 million (up 280% YoY from $7.2 million) - Gross Profit: $13.0 million (compared to a loss of $0.5 million in 2024) - Net Income: $11.5 million (compared to a loss of $3.1 million in 2024) [3][6][11] - **Quarterly Financial Performance (Q3 2025)**: - Gross Revenue: $9.0 million (up 43% YoY from $6.3 million) - Net Revenue: $6.3 million (up 56% YoY from $4.1 million) - Adjusted EBITDA: $1.1 million (up 118% YoY from $0.5 million) [7][8][9] Commercial Developments - SSC is entering a high momentum commercial phase with a refreshed brand identity and product roadmap aimed at enhancing competitiveness and innovation [13][17] - The company has appointed key personnel, including a new Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Sales, to strengthen its commercial strategy [14][19] - The company has secured exclusive distribution rights for the Sluggers Hit brand in Canada, further expanding its market presence [14][16] Balance Sheet Strength - As of September 30, 2025, SSC reported total assets of $60.3 million, a 57% increase from $38.6 million in December 2024 [11] - Working capital surged to $19.8 million, reflecting a 1,148% increase from $1.6 million in the previous year, indicating improved liquidity [11]

Core Viewpoint - TerrAscend Corp. has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Tyson 2.0 to launch cannabis products in Maryland and Pennsylvania, aiming to expand its market presence and product offerings in these states [1][2]. Company Overview - TerrAscend is a leading cannabis company listed on the TSX, with operations across North America, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Ohio, and California [3]. - The company operates retail locations such as The Apothecarium and has scaled cultivation, processing, and manufacturing facilities, ensuring high-quality cannabis products for both medical and adult-use markets [3]. Product Launch Details - The partnership will allow TerrAscend to manufacture and distribute a range of products, including premium flower, vapes, and edibles in Maryland, while in Pennsylvania, the offerings will include flower, vapes, concentrates, and troches [2]. - Products are expected to be available in the new year at Apothecarium locations and select dispensaries in both states [3].

Core Insights - Jushi Holdings Inc. has opened its first retail location in New Jersey, the Beyond Hello™ Little Ferry dispensary, marking a significant milestone in its national retail expansion [2][4][12] - The dispensary opened to the public on November 7, 2025, with a grand opening celebration scheduled for November 21, 2025, featuring exclusive promotions and local product highlights [3][4] Company Expansion - Beyond Hello Little Ferry is the 42nd store nationwide for Jushi and the company's first in New Jersey, indicating its ongoing strategy to expand its footprint in the cannabis market [2][4] - The dispensary is strategically located along U.S. Route 46, providing easy access to residents in Bergen County and the greater Northern New Jersey/New York metropolitan area [7] Product Offering - The dispensary will offer a wide selection of premium cannabis products sourced from New Jersey-based growers, including flower, vapes, edibles, concentrates, and wellness products [9] - Customers will receive personalized consultations and education from a knowledgeable team of cannabis professionals, enhancing the shopping experience [10] Operational Details - Beyond Hello Little Ferry will operate Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with options for online reservations for in-store pickup [6] - The store aims to create a welcoming retail environment for both local communities and commuters [7][12]

Core Insights - The cannabis sector is attracting investor interest due to growth opportunities despite market volatility, with marijuana penny stocks showing potential for significant upside as conditions improve [1][2] Industry Overview - The cannabis industry is adapting to changing consumer demands, competitive state markets, and evolving regulations, with a focus on financial discipline and strategic progress [2] - State-level expansion continues to support gradual industry growth, even amidst uncertainty regarding federal reform [2] Company Highlights - **Glass House Brands Inc. (GLASF)**: Focuses on large-scale greenhouse cultivation and retail operations in California, emphasizing cost reduction and brand recognition through strategic acquisitions and new store openings [4][7] - **Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. (AAWH)**: Operates across multiple states with a diverse product range, balancing pricing pressures and opportunities through geographic diversification and improved customer experiences [8] - **Planet 13 Holdings Inc. (PLNH)**: Known for its experience-based retail model, particularly in Las Vegas, and is expanding into new states while focusing on branded consumer products and operational efficiency [10][12] Financial Performance - **Glass House Brands**: Revenue growth driven by increased production and improved gross margins, with a positive trend in operating income as the company scales production [7] - **Ascend Wellness Holdings**: Revenue growth supported by wholesale and retail expansion, though still facing net losses due to debt and operating expenses; improving margins indicate operational progress [8] - **Planet 13 Holdings**: Modest revenue growth from store expansion, facing pressure on gross profit margins due to operating expenses, but showing progress in reducing overhead costs [12]