By Paul Armentano A recently featured article in CBE, entitled “Implications of the MORE Act and Possible Federal Legalization of Cannabis,” opines that removing the cannabis plant from the federal Controlled Substances Act – as initially proposed by the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act of 2019 – will reclassify it as a prescription-only substance. […]
News & Insights
Louisiana-based Waitr getting into the marijuana delivery business; here’s how it’ll work
Lafayette-based food delivery company Waitr said it is teaming up with Flow Payments to create a specialized platform for the sale and delivery of legal marijuana. The company said the partnership will use Waitr’s proprietary delivery technology along with Flow’s payment processing capabilities to create a platform that abides by federal and state laws. According to Leafly, a […]
Cannabis Potency is Under Attack. It’s Time to Respond
For decades, opponents of cannabis legalization have relied heavily on scare tactics, untruthful rhetoric and increasingly unpersuasive propaganda to cast cannabis in a negative light. From the “Reefer Madness” era of the 1930s to the declaration of a formal “war on drugs” in the 1970s, significant efforts continue to be made encouraging a return to […]
U.S. Cannabis Sales Hit Record $17.5 Billion As Americans Consume More Marijuana Than Ever Before
The coronavirus was good for some industries and ruinous for others. For cannabis, 2020 was a breakout year. Legal sales across the U.S.—15 states allow adult use, 35 allow for medical sales—hit a record of $17.5 billion, a 46% increase from 2019, according to a new report. Most of the sales growth came from adult-use markets, especially mature markets like Colorado, […]
Vaping marijuana linked to lung injury in teens, study says
Teens are about twice as likely to report “wheezing or whistling” in the chest after vaping marijuana than after smoking cigarettes or using e-cigarettes, a new study has found. “This surprised us, we thought we would find more negative respiratory symptoms in both cigarettes and e-cigarettes users,” said study author Carol Boyd, co-director of the […]
Consequences of COVID: Severe Stress Rises Among Men
This article explores the impact that the pandemic has had on men in particular and what that might mean for the CBD industry. In September and October 2020, High Yield Insights ran a national study on consumer lifestyles, the impact of Covid-19, and an in-depth questionnaire on CBD usage. Nearly 13,500 men aged 21+ in […]
The 10 Best Marijuana Stocks in February
Following a more than one-year downtrend, there’s no longer any doubt about it: Marijuana stocks are back in a big way. Cannabis projects as one of the fastest-growing industries this decade, with a report from New Frontier Data suggesting that U.S. pot sales could potentially triple by 2025 to as high as $41.5 billion annually. […]
U.S. Marijuana Legalization Could Decide Future of Canadian Marijuana Stocks
While I analyze the entire legal marijuana industry—both U.S. and Canadian pot stocks—there’s a fundamental difference between the two. The simple fact is that what’s good for U.S.-based pot stocks may actually be bad for Canadian weed stocks, and vice versa. As a marijuana stock investor, it’s important to understand what those opposing forces are and how […]
Gov. Inslee Appoints David Postman as Chair of the Liquor and Cannabis Board
PRESS RELEASE OLYMPIA – The Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) today announces that Gov. Jay Inslee has appointed David Postman as Chair of the LCB Board. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Postman had served as Gov. Inslee’s chief of staff from Dec. 2015 until Nov. 15, 2020. He served in the Inslee Administration since the […]
Chinese CBD Market In The Sights Of Yooma After £6m EMMAC Deal
UK cannabis business EMMAC Life Sciences Group has sold its Yooma Wellness business for over $8m with the emerging Chinese wellness market in the sights of its new owners. Canadian Securities Exchange-listed Yooma has acquired the Blossom, MYO, Hello Joya and What the Hemp brands which have a strong presence Asia. EMMAC and Yooma had […]
How to prepare for a “SPAC-tacular” exit: Get Your Cannabis Company Ready for Acquisition in 4 Steps
By Dan Roda, J.D., LL.M. Demand for medical and adult-use cannabis far exceeded expectations in 2020. The industry was declared to be essential, and from coast-to-coast revenue hit an all time high. In 2021, federal legalization of cannabis is inching closer to being a reality and an unprecedented level of capital is prepared to enter […]
How to Save $200,000 (and Lose $3 Million) Launching Your Cultivation Start-Up
Start-ups have two options for building a new cultivation site: they can either piece together all of the individual components that make up a cultivation facility or invest in a turnkey project. Although turnkey facilities initially cost more than do-it-yourself projects, they offer entrepreneurs the benefit of a reduced learning curve and a rapid entry […]
Three Ways Employment Screening is Impacted by Cannabis Laws
By Angela Preston With discrepancies at the federal and state level, a great debate is underway around the topic of marijuana testing for employment. Let’s take a step back and look at the laws and regulations surrounding marijuana use and screening. Laws and policies are rapidly evolving in this area, but why? There are two […]
Cuomo Issues Amendments to His Legalization Proposal—Next Steps for Legalized Cannabis in New York
By Lori B. Green and Catherine A. Savio, Nixon Peabody LLP As the Empire State moves toward legalization, Governor Cuomo has released amendments to his plan to legalize adult-use cannabis in the State of New York. The amendments permit home delivery of cannabis, reduce criminal penalties for unlawful sales, and clarify the distribution of funds […]
Beckham-Backed Synthetic CBD Company To List On London Stock Exchange On February 26
A £25m CBD company backed by footballer David Beckham’s investment firm is to list on the London Stock Exchange later this week. Cellular Goods says it has attracted strong demand from institutional and private investors for its initial public offering to join the main market – scheduled for February 26. The London-based company says it […]
Acreage Announces Management Change
PRESS RELEASE NEW YORK, Feb. 23, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Acreage Holdings, Inc. (“Acreage” or “Company”) (CSE: ACRG.A.U, ACRG.B.U), (OTC: ACRHF, ACRDF) announced today that Glen Leibowitz, Acreage’s Chief Financial Officer, is leaving the Company, effective April 2, 2021. Glen, who was a key player in establishing Acreage as a leading participant in the developing […]
10 top tax issues in cannabis operating agreements
by Michael Harlow Members of CohnReznick’s Cannabis team recently participated in a webinar with New Frontier Data and NFP titled “Industry Outlook: The Cannabis Commercial Landscape in 2021 and Beyond.” We were excited to see many insightful questions from the attendees, many of which concerned entity structure and issues we have encountered with operating agreements. In […]
Improvements in Sustainability in the Cannabis Industry
By Jourdan Binder From the outside looking in, it is easy to assume the cannabis industry operates in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly fashion. Because cannabis culture has long since been represented as eco-conscious “hippy types,” many think the industry has established protocols for environmental protection. However, a more in-depth look at the modern cannabis industry exposes a field lacking […]
Chris Webber launches $100 million cannabis fund with JW Asset Management
Former NBA star Chris Webber on Tuesday launched a $100 million private equity cannabis fund with New York-based JW Asset Management, aimed at investing in companies run by people from underrepresented communities. Legal cannabis producers in the United States have faced scrutiny for being predominantly run by white men, an issue that is present across […]
How to Determine the Best Way to Grow: Part Two
There are three ways to cultivate cannabis commercially: hydroponically, organically, or a hybrid of the two. Hydroponics Hydroponics is the practice of growing plants without soil. Instead, growers provide plants with an oxygenated, nutrient-rich solution delivered directly to their roots. The energy the plant would dedicate to root growth in search of food and water […]
Could legal marijuana lead to fewer opioid deaths? New study offers tantalizing evidence
Counties with greater numbers of cannabis dispensaries saw fewer opioid-related deaths, according to a study recently published by the University of California Davis. Study co-author Greta Hsu, a UC Davis professor of management, was careful to point out that correlation was not causality, and that further study of the subject is needed. “We’re trying to […]
Pot Stocks Are Flying High Again. It’s Not Just Reddit.
Some of the retail traders on Reddit’s WallStreetBets forum who helped spark GameStop stock’s brief parabolic pop have set their sights on public cannabis companies. Canadian grower Tilray (ticker: TLRY) jumped about 51% on Wednesday. Aphria (APHA), which has a deal to merge with Tilray, was up only 10%, despite trading in step with the latter earlier in the year. Sundial Growers (SNDL) jumped 79%. […]
Recommended Order Clarifies Not All Marijuana Businesses Should Be Denied Trademark Protection
by Jihee Ahn, Attorney at Harris Bricken Last summer, we reported on the trademark infringement lawsuit filed by Veritas Fine Cannabis (“VFC”) against Veritas Farms here and here. In late August, I had reported Veritas Farms filed a motion to dismiss on the basis VFC does not actually possess the common law federal trademarks it […]
Top 5 Steps to Take Before Obtaining a Cannabis License in a Newly Legal State
By Henry Baskerville In November 2020, voters in five states passed legislation allowing some form of marijuana sales, joining the rising tide of cannabis legalization sweeping the nation. However, because cannabis is still classified as a Schedule 1 drug under the Federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA), each new state entering the fray will have its […]
How Zenabis Transformed From Ingenious Concept To Crash in 11 Months
It’s not much of a challenge to find cannabis companies that have crashed and burned since the business became legal and companies began to go public about five years ago. But one would be hard pressed to find a more dramatic shooting star than Zenabis Global Inc. In less than a year, starting in January […]
Marijuana Retail Leasing Faces Blunt Challenges as Legalization Spreads
The number of marijuana stores in the U.S. is poised to grow in 2021 and 2022 as more states legalize the narcotic, the federal government toys with legalization at the national level, and already large sales chains seek to get larger. The expected growth is a small miracle given that tenants, landlords and commercial real […]
Working with a Creative Agency: Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze?
For businesses that have never worked with a creative marketing agency, realizing such services’ value can be challenging. The often hefty price tags that come with abstract terms like “discovery” and “creative” can seem quite daunting. Yet, in the vast expanses of the cannabis startup culture, there is perhaps no better way to make your […]
Why Closing the Gender Gap in the Cannabis Industry is Critical to Success
A lack of equal representation by employees of all genders negatively affects every level of cannabis businesses and the cannabis industry – from products to marketing, access to capital, revenue, and the creation of generational wealth – according to new gender parity research from The Arcview Group and NCIA. To put the limitations that the […]
Top Cannabis Businesses, Associations, and Advocacy Organizations Join Forces to Launch U.S. Cannabis Council
PRESS RELEASE A Coalition of Leading Companies and Advocates, USCC Aims to Advance Social Equity and Racial Justice, and End Federal Cannabis Prohibition WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Top cannabis businesses, associations, and advocacy organizations in the United States today launched the U.S. Cannabis Council (USCC), a 501(c)4 nonprofit organization that strategically aligns and unifies its members’ collective […]
Marijuana M&A boom awaits, in California and beyond
Jazz Pharmaceuticals’ $7.2-billion purchase of GW Pharmaceuticals last week is the biggest tie-up yet for the cannabis industry. And it’s probably just the beginning. The blockbuster deal, which dwarfs Tilray Inc. and Aphria Inc.’s $3.8-billion merger as well as Constellation Brands Inc.’s multibillion-dollar investment in Canopy Growth Corp., shows the growing interest in pharmaceutical-grade cannabinoids. With big money […]
Former NBA star presses lawmakers for Black equity in marijuana industry
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Ron Wyden announced this week that they are working to advance comprehensive marijuana reform legislation. “The War on Drugs has been a war on people — particularly people of color,” the senators said in a joint statement on Monday. “Ending the federal marijuana prohibition […]
Cannabis ETFs Spike on Jazz-GW Pharma Deal
Cannabis stocks have been the biggest winners to start 2021 buoyed by hopes of wider legalization and near-term decriminalization as well as the growing adoption of marijuana in more states. The recent comments from several prominent politicians regarding cannabis reform legislation added to the strength (read: 5 Best ETF Investing Ideas for 2021). In fact, […]
Pot-Investment Stock 9,500% Gain in Peril as Trades Canceled
Micro-cap Nabis Holdings Inc. surged from a penny to nearly a dollar over the course of a week before the stock was halted. Now a Canadian regulator says it will nix all those trades. The Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada said all trades between Jan. 27 and Feb. 2 would be canceled. Short-selling was […]
BGP Acquisition Corp. Announces Completion of U.S. $115,000,000 Initial Public Offering Including the Full Exercise of the Over-Allotment Option
PRESS RELEASE VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 4, 2021 /CNW/ – BGP Acquisition Corp. (“BGP“) is pleased to announce the closing of the initial public offering (the “Offering“) of 11,500,000 class A restricted voting units (“Class A Restricted Voting Units“) (including 1,500,000 Class A Restricted Voting Units issued pursuant to the exercise in full of the over-allotment option) at […]
Why Developing and Executing a Go-to-Market Cannabis Strategy Matters Now More Than Ever
It’s important to think about the cannabis industry not only from a competitive perspective, but also from an opportunity angle. One area of certainty — in a year primarily marked by its notable uncertainty — was the strides made in the legalization of cannabis. The 2020 election was another exciting turning point: Four new states […]
World’s Largest Cannabis Deal Sees UK Firm GW Pharma Bought For $7.2bn
IRISH firm Jazz Pharmaceuticals has agreed to purchase UK medical cannabis trailblazer GW Pharmaceuticals for $7.2bn. The deal will be the biggest ever transaction in the rapidly-emerging global cannabis sector and marks a major milestone for the UK industry. The announcement was made on the NASDAQ exchange – where both firms are listed – early […]
How cannabis has mainstream sleep aids counting sheep
2021 threatens to deliver another year of turmoil, characterized by further lockdowns, social distancing, and an ongoing threat to health, daily routines, and financial security on a global scale – any one of which would be ample cause to lose sleep. Dubbed by some as ‘Coronasomnia’, observers have found evidence of sleep disorders occurring around […]
There’s no stopping the industry now’: Democratic control is a big win for marijuana
The industry is poised for a big shakeup even though the prospects for passing major changes to federal policy remain slim. The day after Democrats swept both Senate seats in the Georgia runoff election— giving them a slim majority and installing pro-marijuana legalization leaders in the upper chamber — Curaleaf Chair Boris Jordan decided to […]
5 B2B Marketing Tactics that Work in the Cannabis Industry
Marketing in the cannabis industry comes with a long list of challenges. With restrictions on social media advertising, pay-per-click advertising, and more, many affordable and effective go-to B2B marketing tactics aren’t available to businesses operating in the cannabis industry, or the limitations imposed on businesses operating in and with the cannabis industry make them poor […]
Date Set For First Medical Cannabis Company To List On The London Stock Exchange
THE London Stock Exchange will accept the first cannabis company in its 320-year history next month – marking a significant milestone in the growth and development of the industry in the UK and Europe. Spinnaker Opportunities has today (January 29) announced the successful completion of a £6m fundraise which will allow its close on its […]
How to Determine the Best Way to Grow: Part One
Selecting an appropriate cultivation strategy is one of the most critical steps in launching or expanding a cannabis cultivation business. A cultivation strategy dictates how a company will produce its cannabis. This decision can determine a company’s likelihood of success and directly influence its capital and operational expenditures. Selecting an appropriate strategy will result in […]
Fluence Hires Jordon Musser as Chief Product Officer
PRESS RELEASE AUSTIN, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Fluence by OSRAM (Fluence), a leading global provider of energy-efficient LED lighting solutions for commercial cannabis and agriculture production, announced the appointment of Jordon Musser to chief product officer. Musser joins Fluence from Dallas, Texas-based Flex Lighting Solutions, a division of Flex that provides LED high-bay fixtures to commercial and industrial […]
Can the cannabis industry be an agent of social justice? Or is it just another big business?
Jason White has created dazzling advertising and marketing campaigns for Nike and Disney, the World Cup and Olympic Games, to name a few. But when the Georgetown alumnus told his parents he was exiting Apple-owned Beats by Dre for the cannabis industry, the announcement landed with a thud. “What they heard was, ‘You’re going to […]
Cannabis Lab Testing: Huge Improvements Still Need to Be Made
State regulations are increasingly calling for the testing of cannabis flower and products for their potency, cannabinoid, terpene profiles and contaminants. As important as it is that these tests take place, it is equally important to ask, “How reliable are these tests?” The answer is “Not very”. In 2010/2011, California NORML and Project CBD initiated […]
The USA Cannabis Opportunity is Significant: New entrants who know what they are doing and operate smartly will be successful
By Terry Booth Compared to Canada, the American cannabis industry is a very different ballgame — and it’s still only in the first inning. The highly rated research team at Cowen & Company, led by Vivien Azer, estimates that the legal cannabis market in the U.S. will grow from an anticipated $20 billion in 2020 […]
Cannabis in the New Year: Old Challenges Meet New Opportunities
Despite a global pandemic that uprooted businesses around the world, the U.S. cannabis market showed no signs of slowing down in 2020, as we had predicted a year ago. Through lockdowns and mask mandates, the industry innovated how consumers purchase cannabis. Brands grew nationwide thanks to increased SPAC involvement and the growth and ambition of […]
Five Key Cybersecurity Trends For 2021
The pandemic has dominated the news in 2020, overshadowing everything else. We’ve seen a rapid rise in remote working, a wave of pandemic-related scams, and pressure to modernize IT while cutting costs. As the dust settles on a tumultuous year, it’s time to plan ahead. IT departments were forced to accelerate their plans and roll […]
Recreational marijuana sales kick off in Arizona
Recreational marijuana sales have started in Arizona, with many of the state’s medical-marijuana dispensaries getting the OK on Friday to open sales to anyone 21 or older. A Harvest Health and Recreation dispensary in Scottsdale got approval at about noon. The staff quickly broke out signs showing where recreational customers would check in, separating them from medical […]
The Effects Of Marijuana Legalization On American Real Estate
When America’s real estate history is written, there will be a chapter with the legalization of marijuana as a focal point. I’m a third-generation warehouse owner in Denver, in the state that recreational marijuana was first legalized in, so it’s impossible for me to not be compelled to analyze the spillover effects. In the beginning, […]
What role can CBD play in alleviating America’s mental health epidemic?
Within hours of the Inauguration Day ceremonies, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) issued a press release calling for the Biden administration to help Americans struggling with mental health exacerbated or brought on by pandemic. In NAMI’s words, the pandemic has brought about a surge in “mental health, substance abuse, and suicide challenges”. Recently […]
Children’s Dutch Epilepsy Cannabis Medicines Will Be Made In The UK To Overcome Import Impasse
A PERMANENT solution to the import impasse on children’s epilepsy cannabis medication has emerged with the Dutch manufacturer set to see the medicines made in the UK. However, the Transvaal Pharmacy, which is based in the Hague, says this will not be in operation for at least a few months meaning a short-term solution still […]
Why a hands-on approach is essential in the cannabis retail industry
By Tatyana Parkanskaia To (mis)quote Mark Twain, the “Death of Retail” has been greatly exaggerated. Consider the explosion of cannabis retail stores throughout southwestern Ontario. Even with some businesses suffering and in dire circumstances due to COVID, cannabis stores are thriving. In some neighbourhoods in downtown Toronto, there are multiple new stores on every block, […]
Cresco Labs Hires PepsiCo Veteran and Supply Chain Expert Ty Gent as Its New Chief Operating Officer
PRESS RELEASE CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Cresco Labs (CSE:CL) (OTCQX:CRLBF) (“Cresco” or “the Company”), one of the largest vertically integrated multistate cannabis operators in the United States, announced the hiring of CPG industry veteran Ty Gent as the Company’s new Chief Operating Officer (“COO”). As COO, Gent will be responsible for operational consistency and efficiency across markets […]
How Some THC Is Legal — For Now
Delta-8-THC — a less-potent cousin of famed Delta-9-THC — is legal enough to sell in most states. But how does it work? And will the DEA shut it down? According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), there are currently at least 144 known cannabinoids that have been isolated from the cannabis plant. The most popular among […]
Why GMP is the Future of Quality Control for the Global Industry
Good Manufacturing Practices, or GMP, are a systematic way of ensuring that products — from food to supplements to pharmaceuticals — are produced consistently according to established quality control standards. Essentially, GMP ensures a universal minimum standard of quality to protect consumers. For the sake of this article, we’ll focus on GMP in two major […]
The New Era of Carbon Negative Footprint Cannabis Cultivation
By Bill Shevlin California grows some of the best cannabis in the world. Unfortunately, cultivation can have not-so-green consequences. From unregulated guerilla grows in the Emerald Triangle, to indoor cultivation in cities like Los Angeles, there are often negative side effects for the environment. High energy consumption, water shortages and the endless wasteful packaging that’s […]
USADA ‘essentially’ eliminating marijuana use as UFC violation
The UFC has “essentially” struck marijuana as a punishable offense in its anti-doping policy, the promotion and anti-doping partner USADA said Thursday. Beginning retroactively Jan. 1, a positive drug test for carboxy-THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, will no longer be considered a violation — unless USADA is able to prove that an athlete intentionally […]
Bengal Capital Welcomes 4FRONT Ventures Josh Rosen
PRESS RELEASE Accomplished Cannabis Investment Team Adds Operations and Institutional Investing Experience January 14, 2021, Chicago, IL and Phoenix, AZ – Bengal Capital announced today that Josh Rosen, co-founder, former CEO and current Chairman of 4Front Ventures (CSE: FFNT), has joined the firm as a Managing Partner. “Bengal has been immersed in the cannabis industry […]
Perkins Coie Adds Director of Public Policy for National Cannabis Industry Association Andrew J. Kline as Senior Counsel
PRESS RELEASE DENVER (January 12, 2021) – Perkins Coie is pleased to announce that Andrew J. Kline has joined the firm in Denver as a senior counsel in the firm’s Commercial Litigation Practice and Cannabis Law Industry Group. Kline brings a rare combination of public policy, cannabis law, coalition building and prosecutorial expertise to the firm, following […]
Jushi Holdings Inc. Expands Retail Footprint in California
Press Release Signs definitive agreements to acquire an operating dispensary in Palm Springs and a retail license holder in Grover Beach Entered into a long-term lease agreement and plans to commence construction in Culver City BOCA RATON, Fla., Jan. 14, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jushi Holdings Inc. (“Jushi” or the “Company”) (CSE: JUSH) (OTCMKTS: JUSHF), […]
Cresco Labs to Expand Into Florida Through Acquisition of Bluma Wellness Inc.
PRESS RELEASE The Company will now have meaningful operations in all 7 cannabis markets that fall within the top 10 most populated states in the U.S. CHICAGO – January 14, 2021 — Cresco Labs (CSE:CL) (OTCQX:CRLBF) (“Cresco Labs” or “the Company”), one of the largest vertically integrated, multistate cannabis operators in the United States, and […]
Markets: US Stocks Surge With Democrats’ Victory, Columbia Care, Sativa Wellness, Cann Group et al…
by Peter McCusker WITH the Democrats in control of the White House, Senate and Congress Wall Street now beckons for America’s cannabis industry. Stock prices moved ahead rapidly in the last week following the Georgia state run-off which tipped the Senate into Democrat hands. The closely-followed new New Cannabis Ventures Global Cannabis Stock Index rose […]
Oregon Cannabis: What is My Partial Marijuana Dispensary Ownership Interest Worth?
by Jesse Mondry A couple of months ago, my colleague Vince Sliwoski wrote Oregon Cannabis Dispensary Sales: What We Are Seeing on Valuation, which focused on the secondary market for cannabis licenses and businesses. Vince explained that the retail market, i.e. the purchase and sale of dispensaries, is still mostly done on multiples of revenue. […]
CANNABIS CRYSTAL BALL: What Lies Ahead for the Cannabis Industry in 2021 and Beyond
By Reggie Snyder In early 2020, prior to the coronavirus pandemic, cannabis reform efforts were making steady progress on Capitol Hill. By all objective metrics, 2020 was initially shaping up to be a banner year for the cannabis industry at the federal and state level. However, after the coronavirus spread rapidly across the country, cannabis-related […]
The Last Drug Warrior: Sheldon Adelson Was The Final Billionaire To Fight Marijuana Legalization. And He Lost.
Sheldon Adelson, the billionaire casino mogul and Republican megadonor whose death at 87 was announced Tuesday, left an indelible mark on American politics. Adelson was one of the first ultrawealthy Americans to funnel oceans of cash through “super PACs” to influence policy and elections, and one of the most effective. A lifelong supporter of the […]
How Customer Data Can Drive Cannabis Operators’ Decision Making
In traditional consumer packaged goods markets, the balance between retailers and manufacturers is dynamic and competitive. When it comes to consumer data and shopping behavior data, retailers have a huge advantage over their manufacturer providers. Why? Because they have access to SKU level shopping data, and with the advent of loyalty/frequent shopper card programs, retailers […]
Better Data for a Better Understanding of the Use and Safety Profile of Cannabidiol (CBD) Products
Over a short period of time, our society has seen a rapid increase in the interest and availability of cannabidiol (CBD) products and other products derived from cannabis. However, we still have a limited understanding of the safety profile of CBD and many other cannabis-derived compounds, including potential safety risks for people and animals. At […]
Four Predictions for 2021
This past year has been game-changing for the industry. Cannabis was deemed essential, and regulators showed a willingness to quickly revise and roll out emergency rules allowing for online ordering and more flexible delivery options. These changes advanced the industry by several years in a short period of time and reassured investors who returned to […]
Study Suggests Use of Medical Marijuana Might Lead To Multiple Withdrawal Symptoms
The medical marijuana movement has been blowing up all around the world. Both ancient and modern studies have cited it as a cure for all sorts of ailments ranging from chronic pain to even leprosy (in the ancient Indian science of ayurveda too, of all places). But recent research shines a light on the darker side of the use of […]
Understanding CapEx and OpEx Requirements for a New Cultivation Business
CapEx costs are the capital expenditures required to launch a cultivation business, while OpEx costs are the day-to-day operational expenses of running that business. These figures are substantial and vary widely between indoor, outdoor, and greenhouse operations. Understanding CapEx and OpEx costs are critical for determining the cash requirements needed to launch and operate a […]
Innovative Industrial Properties Acquires Massachusetts and Washington Properties and Enters Into Long-Term Leases with 4Front
PRESS RELEASE IIP Expands Portfolio to 66 Properties Comprising 5.4 Million Square Feet in 17 States SAN DIEGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Innovative Industrial Properties, Inc. (IIP), the first and only real estate company on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: IIPR) focused on the regulated U.S. cannabis industry, announced today that it closed on the acquisitions of a […]
What Georgia’s Senate Results Mean for Marijuana Stocks
All eyes were on the Georgia special Senate run-off elections on Tuesday with the control of the U.S. Senate hanging in the balance. It looks like that control will shift from the GOP to the Democrats. Democratic Senate candidate Rev. Raphael Warnock has already been declared the victor in his race against incumbent Republican Sen. […]
Identifying Cannabis Markets During a Crisis
By Jonathan Monk In times of crisis, we must never forget the power of human ingenuity. Some of the immense tragedies in history have been met with profound acts of innovation and creativity. As COVID-19 has rocked the modern business world and has forced companies to “pivot or perish.” While the cannabis industry has done […]
Looking To The Future – Florida’s Emergency Edible Rules Provide An Opportunity For Profits – And Perils
by Edd Gaus and Matt Bernstein Nearly four years after Florida voters legalized medical marijuana, in August, the state’s Department of Health’s Office of Medical Marijuana Use published emergency rules allowing licensed medical marijuana treatment centers to produce, package, and label edible marijuana derivative products. Although initially temporary when enacted in August of 2020, the Department […]
Hemp Banking for Credit Unions: Five Key Questions
By Vince Sliwoski, Attorney at Harris Bricken One of the coolest things we’ve done here at Harris Bricken was work with the National Credit Union Association on its June 2020 guidance for servicing hemp-related businesses. Back when we first started working with small, Northwest credit unions in 2014 and 2015 (on the THC banking side) […]
Forget Aurora Cannabis, Curaleaf Is a Better Marijuana Stock
I wonder why there is so much hype around the Canadian pot company Aurora Cannabis (NYSE: ACB) when it has time and again failed to meet investors’ expectations. Aurora Cannabis might be a popular pot stock among investors, but if you look around, U.S. cannabis stocks hold much greater potential. One such company is Massachusetts-based Curaleaf Holdings (OTC: CURLF). While […]
The Art of Competitive Cannabis Pricing
By: Tate Behning Before cannabis was a legal option, prices in the unregulated market varied wildly depending on the whims of the individual seller. But as states find themselves at different points on the path to legalization, the market is rapidly changing. Today, cannabis is a $52 billion industry, and Americans cultivate 29.9 million pounds of […]
What is CRM and why is it important in Cannabis marketing?
How building a strong Customer Relationship Management List can super-charge your retail dispensary business. Imagine that you’re shopping at your favorite local sandwich shop. When you walk in, Wendy, the owner shouts hello to you over the counter with her back turned towards you. “The usual?” she asks? “Also, we’ve got those ice tea flavors […]
Huge Rise In UK Medical Cannabis Imports As Private Sector Steps-Up To Meet Patient Demand
NEW Government figures show a 900% increase in the number of cannabis medicines notified for import demonstrating the private sector’s growing role in fulfilling UK demand. Between March 1, and October 1, this year, the number of packs of unlicensed CBPMs (cannabis-based products for medicinal use) notified for import was 37,543, up from 3,741 in […]
Shawn Kemp is lighting up Seattle again
As the legal weed boom shuts out Black Americans, the former SuperSonics star is vowing to diversify the industry. So why are cannabis activists mad at their hometown hero? SEATTLE — He’s not more than three or four pulls into his joint when, standing in a waterfront sculpture park in the middle of the afternoon, […]
First year of legal marijuana in Illinois generated big bucks but no new minority license holders
Cannifem represents much of what state lawmakers hoped for when they legalized marijuana in Illinois. The startup business was formed by three Black women from areas hardest hit by the war on drugs. Yet the group failed to get any of the three cannabis licenses for which it applied. And the women spent tens of […]
Flower One Provides Update On Convertible Debenture Interest Payment
PRESS RELEASE Flower One Holdings Inc. (“Flower One” or the “Company”) (CSE: FONE) (OTCQX: FLOOF) (FSE: F11), a leading cannabis cultivator, producer and innovator in Nevada, announced today that it does not intend to make the applicable interest payments due on December 31, 2020 related to its Unsecured Convertible Debentures issued in March 2019 and […]
Caliva Ends 2020 in Record-Breaking Fashion with Industry-Changing Announcements
PRESS RELEASE Caliva set the pace for cannabis innovation in 2020 by launching Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter’s MONOGRAM line, expanding its delivery and retail footprint in key California markets, and entering into definitive transaction agreements with Subversive Capital Acquisition Corp. (NEO: SVC.A.U, SVC.WT.U; OTCQX: SBVCF) (“SCAC”), a special purpose acquisition company (“SPAC”), to form TPCO Holding […]
5 Research-Backed Reasons Cannabis Brands Must Prioritize Customer Experience
By Susan Gunelius Across industries, including the cannabis industry, the term customer experience (CX) gained significant traction during 2020, and now, a variety of research studies have put the growing interest in CX into perspective. No longer is customer experience an ideal that businesses will work toward in the future. In 2021, customer experience will be […]
9 Things to Consider When Raising Capital for Startups in Europe
Since my first job on Wall Street at Lehman Brothers, I was taught to raise money. And now, with a landmark vote by the EU to reclassify cannabis as medicine, the race to raise cannabis money is on. Europe has watched cannabis reform unfold in the US and Canada for some time; European countries have […]
10 Tips on How to Launch a Compliant Cannabis Retail Chain
By Lucas McCann Compliance is king. This very notion is paramount to the success of any retail chain looking to make headway in its respective markets. This certainly does not exclude the cannabis industry. To empower prospective cannabis retailers with knowledge and resources needed to launch a successful and compliant cannabis retail chain, here are […]
Cannabis Has Become a Go-To Grownup Stocking Stuffer
When a certain famous young entertainer was recently clocked at the Originals Factory & Weed Shop buying over $3,000 worth of cannabis goodies, those working behind the counter realized they weren’t just spotting a celebrity but a trend. Sensing all eyes upon her as she proceeded to lay out a bundle of hundred dollar bills to cover […]
Cannabis Patents: Which Type is Right for You?
By Jihee Ahn, Attorney at Harris Bricken It’s been a little while since we’ve talked about patent protection on the blog, but a recent consultation reminded me a primer on the different types of patents potentially available could be beneficial. Here in the United States, there are three broad categories of patents, all of which […]
The Persevering Pair Who Helped Open The London Stock Exchange To Cannabis
PERSISTENCE has paid-off for an Israeli businessman and a UK lawyer after the London Stock Exchange issued its first ever listing guidelines for cannabis firms. Roby Zomer, Co-Founder and Managing Director of MGC Pharmaceuticals, says the pending change sets-up the UK for a huge influx of cannabis capital. Nick Davis, CEO of Memery Crystal, says it is […]
Columbia Care Signs Definitive Agreement to Acquire Green Leaf Medical
PRESS RELEASE Positions Company as One of the Leading Cultivators, Processors, Wholesaling Suppliers and Retailers in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and Ohio Company management will conduct a conference call this morning at 8 AM EST to discuss the transaction and answer questions from stakeholders. Substantially Expands Footprint and Operating Scale in East Coast and Mid-Atlantic Adds […]
New European Ecosystem Highlights Emerging Opportunities For Cannabis Entrepreneurs
Inspite of its delayed arrival Europe has a first-class opportunity to become a world-leader in the emerging global cannabis industry. This is one of the key take-aways from the latest First Wednesdays’ Ecosystem cannabis legend – this time of the emerging European medical cannabis industry. Back in June, FW corralled its database and publicly-available information to […]
Looking to cash in on the green wave and jump into a new market? Here’s some PR tips from an industry pro
By Jordan Isenstadt With the recent ballot measure victories on Election Day, a total of 36 states (along with Washington, D.C. and three territories) have some form of legal cannabis on the books. With dollar signs in mind, many are turning their attention to legal cannabis markets, especially states that have recently expanded their cannabis […]
The basics of creating a high quality infused gummy brand
By Lauren Tamburro & Evan Smith There is something incredibly exciting about the blossoming cannabis industry. People from all walks of life, in all kinds of careers, can develop an innovative product idea and then actually make it happen. Some of today’s most successful brands were started in a home kitchen, on evenings and weekends and […]
If You Have Only Protected Your Cannabis Business Using the Minimum Security Required by Law, YOU ARE NOT SECURE
This year has been filled with what has been termed peaceful protests. Unfortunately, the reality is these peaceful protests have left an undetermined amount of damage in their wakes sure to total tens of billions of dollars across the U.S. Many businesses have been damaged and looted with no rhyme nor reason as to the […]
Schultze Special Purpose Acquisition Corp. and Clever Leaves International Inc. Complete Business Combination
PRESS RELEASE Common Shares and Warrants of the Combined Company to Begin Trading on Nasdaq Under Symbols CLVR and CLVRW on Friday, December 18, 2020 RYE BROOK, N.Y., Dec. 18, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Schultze Special Purpose Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: SAMA, SAMAW, and SAMAU) (“SAMA”) and Clever Leaves International Inc. (“Clever Leaves”) announced that following […]
Acreage Holdings Names Peter Caldini, Former President Pfizer North America Consumer Healthcare, as CEO
PRESS RELEASE NEW YORK, Dec. 18, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Acreage Holdings, Inc. (“Acreage”or “Company”) (CSE: ACRG.A.U, ACRG.B.U), (OTC: ACRHF, ACRDF) is pleased to announce that Peter Caldini has been appointed as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. He officially joins Acreage on Monday, December 21st. Peter brings an ideal mix of capabilities and experience to […]
CBD Marketing: There’s Hope Beyond Black Friday
by Scott Waldman Black Friday is widely considered the holy grail for holiday sales. Marketers will spend months preparing the perfect campaign to win conversions between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday – but then what happens? Is it still possible for CBD brands to boost sales and capture new markets through December, or even into January? […]
Over 500 Deals Pitched To $200m UK Cannabis Fund
NEWLY-LAUNCHED legal medicinal cannabis fund Verdite Capital plans to make its first investments in the spring of 2021 – with team members having already considered over 500 deals in the sector. It is close to securing $75m from a UK-based multi-family office and is looking to top that up to $100m for the first close – with […]
Aphria and Tilray Combine to Create Largest Global Cannabis Company With Pro Forma Revenue of C$874 Million (US$685 Million)
PRESS RELEASE Complementary, Scalable Medical and Adult-Use Cannabis Businesses Strengthen Leadership Position in Canada; Expands U.S. and International Reach through World-Class Cultivation, Manufacturing, Diversified Product Portfolio and Distribution Footprint Robust Supply Chain and Operational Efficiencies Expected to Generate Approximately C$100 Million of Pre-Tax Annual Cost Synergies Aphria and Tilray to Host a Conference Call and […]
Verano Holdings Enters into an Agreement for a Go-Public Transaction in Conjunction with AltMed Merger
PRESS RELEASE CHICAGO – December 15, 2020 – Verano Holdings, LLC (“Verano” or the “Company”), a leading multi-state cannabis operator, today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to consummate a go-public transaction in Canada (the “Transaction”). The Transaction will be effected by Verano participating in a reverse takeover (the “RTO”) of Majesta Minerals […]
