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NEW YORK, Oct. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tradewinds Universal, Inc. (OTCID: TRWD), a fully reporting public holding company, today provided an update on the progress of its transaction with Peppermint Hippo, outlining continued advancements toward closing and operational integration under the leadership of Alan Chang, founder and CEO of Peppermint Hippo and Director of TRWD\u2019s Adult Hospitality Division.<\/p>\n
Following the previously announced agreement between Tradewinds Universal and Peppermint Hippo, the two companies have made significant progress in aligning corporate structure, financial reporting, and state licensing frameworks in preparation for the official completion of the first of several planned acquisitions. The initial acquisition of Peppermint Hippo Toledo will serve as the flagship property for TRWD\u2019s newly formed Adult Hospitality Division, establishing a strong foundation for nationwide expansion.<\/p>\n
Transaction Progress and Integration Milestones<\/strong> Upon finalization, the Adult Hospitality Division will operate as a wholly owned business unit under TRWD, incorporating Peppermint Hippo and additional affiliated brands. This structure is designed to form a consolidated national conglomerate of modernized clubs, creating one of the only publicly traded platforms within the adult hospitality and nightlife sector.<\/p>\n Leadership and Industry Expertise Driving Growth<\/strong> \u201cAlan\u2019s leadership ensures this division is being built with operational excellence and scalability in mind,\u201d said CEO Andrew Read. \u201cHis proven success in transforming underperforming venues into high-performing destinations aligns perfectly with TRWD\u2019s mission to create sustainable, revenue-driven holdings.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n As progress continues, Tradewinds Universal also plans to add additional Board members with expertise in finance, licensing, real estate, and hospitality operations. These appointments will further strengthen corporate governance and leadership depth as the Company advances the Peppermint Hippo transaction and future acquisitions.<\/p>\n Chang\u2019s guidance is instrumental as TRWD integrates Peppermint Hippo\u2019s established brand recognition and performance standards into its public structure, paving the way for long-term shareholder value.<\/p>\n Building the Public Market\u2019s Next Mainstream Entertainment Brand<\/strong> The U.S. bars and nightlife industry generates an estimated $36\u2013$39 billion annually, with the gentlemen\u2019s club segment alone valued near $8 billion. TRWD\u2019s strategy aims to consolidate and modernize a meaningful portion of this market through scalable, revenue-producing properties that meet public-market standards.<\/p>\n Each Peppermint Hippo club delivers a \u201cMini-Vegas\u201d ambiance\u2014featuring upscale design, premium entertainment, and hospitality experiences positioned to thrive in both regional and destination markets.<\/p>\n
Tradewinds Universal confirmed that due diligence, regulatory review, and PCAOB-compliant accounting procedures are advancing in preparation for the next phase of the transaction. The Company is now entering the licensing and legal review stage, which will establish the regulatory foundation required for acquisition completion and ongoing expansion.<\/p>\n
Alan Chang\u2019s appointment to the Board in September marked a pivotal turning point in the transaction\u2019s execution. Chang, who has built Peppermint Hippo into a national entertainment brand with 10 clubs and growing across the U.S., now oversees TRWD\u2019s Adult Hospitality Division, leading both expansion and modernization efforts.<\/p>\n
Peppermint Hippo\u2019s growth strategy reflects TRWD\u2019s broader vision to redefine adult hospitality as a mainstream, asset-backed business model. The Company plans to expand to over 100 modernized venues nationwide, transforming an outdated and fragmented sector into a consistent, branded entertainment experience.<\/p>\n