Happy Belly's Ghost Taco signs 45-unit Ontario franchise deal

Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) has signed a 45-unit area development agreement for its Ghost Taco brand in the province of Ontario, according to a company press release dated September 15, 2026.

The agreement calls for the development of new franchised Ghost Taco locations throughout Ontario. The deal follows Happy Belly's recently completed acquisition of a 50% interest in Ghost Taco.

Ghost Taco is a fast-casual restaurant brand founded by Samantha Buckley, Grant Buckley, and Steve Tallas. The brand started as a pop-up and currently operates locations in Newmarket, Kingston, Whitby, Peterborough, and Barrie, Ontario. Its menu includes Mexican-inspired tacos, bowls, sides, and desserts.

Scott Grandin has been named as the area developer for the agreement. "Ghost Taco immediately stood out to me as a brand with tremendous potential," Grandin said.

Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly, said the company's focus will now turn to securing additional development agreements across Canada. "Ontario is Ghost Taco's home market, and we believe there is tremendous opportunity available to grow this brand across the province," Black said.

Happy Belly's broader portfolio includes Heal Wellness, Rosie's Burgers, Yolks Breakfast, Via Cibo Italian Street Food, and iQ Food Co., among others. The company uses an asset-light franchise model to expand its restaurant brands.

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