Mr. Sean Black reports

HAPPY BELLY FOOD GROUP ANNOUNCES FIRST SIGNED U.S. FRANCHISE AGREEMENT & REAL ESTATE FOR HEAL WELLNESS IN LUBBOCK, TEXAS

Happy Belly Food Group Inc. has signed its first franchise agreement in the United States for its rapidly growing Heal Wellness brand. This milestone builds on the company's Nov. 6, 2025, announcement securing its first U.S. real estate location in Lubbock, Tex., where construction is now well under way. Heal Wellness is a fast-growing quick-service restaurant (QSR) brand specializing in fresh smoothie bowls, acai bowls and smoothies, built around clean ingredients and a better-for-you lifestyle.

The Lubbock location marks Heal Wellness's first franchise agreement in Texas and is strategically positioned near Texas Tech University, one of the largest universities in the United States, reflecting Happy Belly's focus on high-traffic, youth-oriented markets aligned with Heal's core demographic. Texas is driven by strong population growth, a pro-business environment, and a thriving health and fitness culture, all of which support strong demand for Heal's better-for-you menu of acai bowls, smoothie bowls and blended smoothies.

Lubbock itself is a rapidly growing regional hub, with a population exceeding 270,000 and a broader trade area of approximately 360,000 residents. Anchored by Texas Tech University's 41,000 to 42,000 students, the market benefits from consistent, year-round foot traffic and strong demand from students, families and professionals. The region's warm climate further supports sustained demand for cold and refreshing offerings throughout the year. Notably, this agreement is with the same experienced multiunit franchise operator previously announced by the company for expansion in the state of Texas. The franchise partner brings strong local market knowledge and is committed to executing the brand's vision as construction continues to progress, with the location expected to open in Q2 of this year.

"Today's announcement marks a significant step forward for both Heal Wellness and Happy Belly as we prepare to launch operations in the United States," said Sean Black, chief executive officer of Happy Belly. "We are entering an ideal market at the right time with the right brand as Heal Wellness continues to build momentum with its focus on functional, health-forward foods. This first U.S. franchise agreement underscores our broader strategy to scale a portfolio of emerging brands through franchising across North America. With additional multiunit agreements already in place in markets such as Colorado, our global expansion is just getting started.

"Heal Wellness continues to expand rapidly across Canada and into the United States, solidifying its position as a leading acai and smoothie bowl brand," said Mr. Black. "With 35 locations now open nationwide, and more than 173 in development, Heal remains a key driver of growth within Happy Belly's broader portfolio of 666 contractually committed retail franchise locations across multiple emerging brands in various stages of development, construction and operation. Our predictable and disciplined growth engine continues to deliver measurable results as we expand our footprint with a focus on strong real estate, experienced operators and long-term shareholder value.

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. Heal Wellness currently offers a diverse range of smoothie bowls and smoothies. Heal Wellness takes pride in meticulously selecting every superfood ingredient on its menu to fuel the body, including acai smoothie bowls, smoothies and superseed grain bowls. Heal Wellness's smoothie bowls are crafted with real fruit and enriched with superfoods such as acai, pitaya, goji berries, chia seeds and more.

Franchising

For franchising inquiries, please see Happy Belly's website or contact the company at hello@happybellyfg.com.

About Happy Belly Food Group Inc.

Happy Belly Food Group is a leader in acquiring and scaling emerging food brands across Canada.

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