Mr. Ed Khediguian reports

CWB FRANCHISE FINANCE PROVIDES FINANCING TO RICKY'S GROUP FOR ACQUISITION OF FAMOSO NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA

CWB Franchise Finance, a division of Canadian Western Bank, has provided a term loan facility to Ricky's Family Restaurants (Ricky's Group) for the acquisition of the Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria chain (Famoso). Established in 2006, Famoso has 30 franchised locations in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario, and is known for using authentic ingredients and processes in its premium casual pizzeria restaurants. Ricky's Group is part of the FDF Restaurant Brandz folio, with 175 franchised restaurant locations, including Ricky's All Day Grill, Ricky's Country, Ricky's Cafes and Fatburger.

"We've partnered with the leadership team at Ricky's Group for more than 12 years and are pleased to assist with the addition of this complementary brand to their portfolio," said Trish Halliwell, a senior manager with CWB's restaurant division. "When our long-standing partners want to grow, we're there to work with them on their specific financing needs, and to support transaction analysis and due diligence. With this deal, we've also established new financing programs that will benefit Ricky's and Famoso franchisees."

Frank Di Benedetto, chief executive officer and owner of FDF Restaurant Brandz, adds: "CWB Franchise Finance has been a key partner, providing guidance and financial support in our efforts to expand over the last 12 years. CWB is a highly skilled group that understands the franchised restaurant sector extremely well."

About Canadian Western Bank

Canadian Western is a diversified financial services organization serving businesses and individuals across Canada. Operating from its headquarters in Edmonton, Alta., Canadian Western's key business lines include full-service business and personal banking offered through 42 branches of Canadian Western Bank and Internet banking services provided by Motive Financial. Highly responsive specialized financing is delivered under the banners of CWB Equipment Financing, CWB National Leasing, CWB Maxium Financial, CWB Franchise Finance and CWB Optimum Mortgage. Trust services are offered through Canadian Western Trust.