Matthew Palomares

This is what we posted to our 200 member Sonoma Valley Cannabis Group. Why? Because it should be our responsibility to let our members know about this issue - their health and safety come first. : Buyer Alert This is a blockbuster, and honestly frightening, LA Times article on pesticides in cannabis products. If you purchase vapes anywhere, including SPARC, you may want to steer clear of the Stiiizy brand of cartridge. Although the sample I purchased had a different batch number from the product noted in the LA Times article, many in the industry would suggest erring on the side of caution and steering clear of any of the products of any of the brands mentioned. There is a batch of Stiiizy vapes out there reported to contain an insecticide known to cause liver cancer and to mimic human hormones, part of a chemical class known as endocrine disruptors, which over time cause reproductive disorders. “A pink acai vape from Stiiizy, the state’s top-selling cannabis brand, carried more than 60 times the maximum amount of pymetrozine allowed by federal regulators in cigarettes. But because California does not require testing for pymetrozine, the company that makes Stiiizy products said it is not in violation of state regulation.” The LA Times article:

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“It’s like the wind in our cannabis sails in Colorado has just been sucked all the way out,” said Wanda James, founder of Denver dispensary Simply Pure, one of the first recreational dispensaries in the state. A messy assortment of factors has led to the pioneering industry’s struggles. A supply glut caused weed prices to plummet in the wake of the pandemic. The spread of cheap, largely unregulated intoxicating hemp-derived products further heightened competitive pressures. And marijuana remains federally illegal, subjecting operators to sky-high taxes and costly regulations. But more than any other factor, Colorado’s market has been sapped by the rapid spread of legalization across the country. Neighbors New Mexico and Arizona are among the 24 states with their own adult-use legal marijuana markets, wreaking havoc on the business plans of dispensaries on Colorado’s southern border. Tourists who once flooded the state for the opportunity to legally experience Rocky Mountain highs have largely disappeared as the novelty has worn off. Even Texans aren’t driving north to buy weed anymore, satisfied with the proliferation of intoxicating hemp products in their own state. #coloradocannabis #cannabisindustry #simplypure #wandajames #cannabismarket #coloradocannabismarket https://lnkd.in/gpGxG8mA

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🚨 Insightful DEA Report: Illicit marijuana flowers average a THC potency of 16%. 🌿💨 This statistic underscores a significant advantage of purchasing from licensed dispensaries—quality and safety. Unlike the unregulated market, dispensaries offer products that are tested, compliant, and consistent in their THC content. This not only ensures a safer consumer experience but also supports the legal cannabis industry committed to high standards. Why risk the unknown? Choose quality, safety, and reliability every time with dispensary-bought cannabis. Let's advocate for more informed consumer choices and support regulations that emphasize these benefits. Stay informed and choose wisely. #CannabisIndustry #ConsumerSafety #DispensaryQuality #THCPotency #RegulatedCannabis

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I wish more brands would realize how a content strategy that provides REAL value means EVERYONE wins. In this video, I break down the content strategy from Texas Hill Country Provisions which generates hundreds of thousands of video views, provides a ton of high quality entertainment for music fans, and gives emerging musicians a platform to get their music out. That's why I think this just might be the perfect content marketing strategy. #contentmarketing #brand #marketingstrategy https://lnkd.in/gM-rZqNv

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“Every sale of THC beverages outside dispensaries robs the state’s cannabis tax fund roughly $6.08,” Caren Woodson, president of the California Cannabis Industry Association. This quote is entirely uninformed and sensationalist. Tax on zero sales is zero, nobody wants to buy low dose beverages in dispensaries and dispensaries don’t want our drinks! The dispensary ecosystem is not built for beverage. Also why do you think people are leaving your hyper taxed weed alone? Could it be you expect to take an extra 6 dollars from your constituents? America is built on finding better ways to do business, do not penalize our industry for leaving a bad relationship. If your market is worthy of THC drinks… improve yourself instead of running to lawmakers to crush us, California Cannabis Industry Association. https://lnkd.in/g2CUAMA7

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As the cannabis industry matures, we are starting to get reliable data. This can help make decisions based on real sales figures and not predictions. 10 years ago, there was only one state with adult use sales (#colorado) and a handful of states with medical seals. Now there is 24 sates with adult use sales and an additional 15 states with medical seals. At the moment #california leads with total seals but #michigan leads with per capita seals. #florida leads in medical seals. #missouri with a relatively small population and only 17 months since they launched their adult-use market, is already in fifth place. Thank you Debra Borchardt from Green Market Report for the financial update. #cannabisindustry #cannabiscommunity #cannabisnews #cannabiseducation #cannabispolicy #cannbislaw https://lnkd.in/gc96gcCh

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How's your Independence Day promotional planning going? The team at Surfside put together a handy little 1-pager outlining #cannabis sales trends from 2023 to help retailers and brands understand which summer holidays are worth investing in. Top summer holiday? Independence Day, of course. July 3rd, 2023, saw a 31% spike in sales, which is comparable to other ethnographic opportunities like the Super Bowl (42% spike on Saturday) and Halloween (27% on 10/31). This year, with Independence Day being on a Thursday, #Surfside is expecting 2 x the sales (closer to 60%). To put Independence Day in context July 4th promotions account for 1.7% of your annual revenue And 7% of summer revenue. That's nothing to sniff at. Check out the Surfside report today. Comment below or DM us if you need any help! #Vetrina #CannabisRetail #PromotionalPlanning https://lnkd.in/gFt-Z3Hp

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What is California’s cannabis experience brand today? Which attractions, brands, organizations, and experience creators are leading the way and shaping the future of cannabis tourism and travel in California? It’s an important question because California is an influential global brand, a trend-setting market, and a bucket list travel destination with a powerhouse tourism economy – the trifecta. Visit California recently announced that in 2023 travel spending in California grew to approximately $150.4 billion. (Dean Runyan, Economic Impact Report 2023). A powerful fact. The California cannabis brands and businesses that are actively invested in cross-industry growth opportunities with the travel and visitor economy strategies will continue to differentiate and excel in this next stretch. On that note, we’re excited to present a three-part series on the top thirty brands ushering in a new era of cannabis tourism in California. Here are the first ten: Find out who they are at the link below. Written by Brian Applegarth. The Cannabis Trail, Inc.

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What truly defines a lifestyle brand, and why does it matter? In our latest webinar with Crystal Millican from Cookies and Luna Stower from Ispire Vape Technology, Jenny Lamboy finds the answers to these two important questions. In today's competitive market, distinguishing between selling a product and establishing a lifestyle brand can make all the difference. Lifestyle brands go beyond transactions—they integrate into consumers' lives, becoming part of their daily routines and experiences. This transformation is more than a marketing strategy; it's a commitment to adding value and meaning to everyday life. Crystal's insights on Cookies highlight this beautifully. Cookies isn't just about cannabis products; it's about enhancing moments—bringing people together, making them feel good, and addressing specific needs like relaxation or better sleep. This deep integration into consumers' lives underscores the brand’s responsibility and connection with its audience. Similarly, Ispire's journey reflects the aspiration to not only meet consumers where they are but to elevate their experiences. By focusing on premium products and educating consumers about quality and innovation, iSpire builds trust and loyalty. This approach is crucial in an industry often marred by misinformation and low-quality alternatives. Both examples emphasize core values as the foundation of a lifestyle brand. It's about authenticity, meeting consumers where they are, and guiding them towards better experiences. Whether it's through premium offerings or a commitment to consumer education, these brands show that lifestyle integration is key to building lasting relationships and brand loyalty. For any brand aiming to evolve into a lifestyle brand, it's essential to reflect on who you are and who you are not. Core values must be clearly defined and consistently communicated. This clarity helps navigate market challenges and maintain authenticity, ensuring that every product or initiative resonates deeply with your audience. In essence, becoming a lifestyle brand means becoming a trusted part of your consumers' lives—offering not just products, but experiences and values that enrich their everyday moments. Are you ready to make that leap? - Thank you to Luna and Crystal for being fantastic guests and providing incredible insight on lifestyle brands! You can find the full webinar on our website. Just click the link! - #HybridMarketingCo #iSpire #Cookies #Cannabis #CannabisIndustry #Webinar #FreeWebinar #Networking #CannabisBusiness #Lifestyle #LifestyleBrand #Branding #Marketing #CannabisMarketing #MarketingInsights #CoreValues #BrandValues

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What is California’s cannabis experience brand today? Which attractions, brands, organizations, and experience creators are leading the way and shaping the future of cannabis tourism and travel in California? It’s an important question because California is an influential global brand, a trend-setting market, and a bucket list travel destination with a powerhouse tourism economy – the trifecta. Visit California recently announced that in 2023 travel spending in California grew to approximately $150.4 billion. (Dean Runyan, Economic Impact Report 2023). A powerful fact. The California cannabis brands and businesses that are actively invested in cross-industry growth opportunities with the travel and visitor economy strategies will continue to differentiate and excel in this next stretch. On that note, we’re thrilled to present part 3 of this three-part series on the top thirty brands leading the new era of cannabis tourism in California. Written by Brian Applegarth The Cannabis Trail, Inc. Continued at the link below.

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John Schroyer's Green Market Report article, "Colorado has worst April cannabis sales month since 2016," highlights the ongoing challenges in our industry. Despite high hopes for 4/20, April 2024 sales fell to $120.1 million, continuing a trend of stagnation and decline. At Better Days Delivery, we see this as an opportunity to innovate and support our local dispensaries. By partnering with us, we can navigate these challenges together and enhance customer experience through top-notch delivery services. Dispensaries, let’s collaborate to create solutions that benefit our community and revitalize the market. Consumers, enjoy the convenience and quality of Better Days Delivery right to your doorstep. Read the full article for more insights. #CannabisIndustry #ThoughtLeadership #MarketTrends #BetterDaysDelivery #PartnershipOpportunities #BetterDaysAreOnTheWay https://lnkd.in/gD4nT9Vq

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SACRAMENTO, Calif - The California State Fair Cannabis Awards announced its Gold and Silver medal winners. Judges awarded more than 100 medals across nine categories and 44 subcategories, including outdoor flower, mixed light flower, pre-rolls, concentrates, cartridges, edibles, beverages and wellness products. Gold medal winners are now vying for nine coveted “Best of California” Golden Bear trophies, likened to the new “Michelin Guide” of cannabis products. With more than 500 entries in 2024—double that of 2023—the California State Fair Cannabis Awards is the largest sanctioned cannabis competition in the world. For 170 years, the California State Fair has awarded farmers from California’s traditional agricultural industries for their best-in-class bounty. In response to California voters’ overwhelming support for cannabis legalization and in recognition of the tremendous role cannabis plays as one of the state's top-ranking crops by value, the California State Fair has included cannabis in these prestigious awards for the past three years. Embarc Budist California State Fair Cannabis Awards Continuing reading at the link below.

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I've seen a ton of cannabinoid CPG brands advertise with "made with organically grown hemp" and I support the sentiment 100%... But why not maintain organic status through to the finished product? Why stop using organic inputs in your hemp derived products once the hemp leaves the field? First of all, any company can claim they grew a crop organically, but without the USDA organic seal (aka a third party audit), it is just their word with no guaruntee organic practices have truly been followed. Second, using non-organic solvents and processing aids can introduce harsh chemicals into the raw cannabinoid ingredients. Then, formulating finished products with non-organic ingredients opens another door for harmful contaminates to be introduced into products. At Kentucky Heritage Hemp we farm our hemp using 100% organic practices and we have a USDA organic certification to prove it. We don't stop using orgnaic practices at the farm level either. We extract, distill, isolate and produce finished products, to 100% USDA organic standards (with the USDA organic cert to prove it). For our clients, we provide USDA organic extracts, distillates, isolates and finished products, so that they can make claims that surpass "organically grown" and put the USDA organic seal onto their products when applicable. In order for a finished product to carry the USDA organic seal, it doesn't just have to contain USDA organic ingredients, it also needs to be produced/handled in a USDA organic facility until the product is in it's final state (sealed, labeled, etc.) Without a doubt, it can be a bit of a burden to go through the USDA organic certification process, maintain proper records/protocols, and undergo an annual audit. That's why KHH has started to offer private label products, like tinctures and salves, under our USDA organic seal. Meaning your company can have us co-manufacture a tincture or salve under your brand name. Shipped direct to you, ready for sale, out of our USDA organic certified (and annually audited) facilities. That allows you to offer your customers USDA organic products, without the hassle of having your facilities go through the USDA organic certification process. If you prefer to manufacture your own products and would like to pursue a USDA organic certification for your facility/manufacutring processes, we are happy to help provide you with some guidane towards that goal too. Alternatively, if you want to simply further a claim from "organically grown hemp" to "organically grown, extracted and refined cannabinoids", then we can help make that happen as well. Want to learn more about USDA organic cannabinoids, our quality standards and working with KHH? Visit KYHeritageHemp.com or shoot me a message here on LinkedIn. #USDAorganic #CBD #CBG #CBDproducts #cannabinoids #health #organic #CPG

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Community is a buzzword right now. It seems like everywhere I turn I hear every business, every podcast, every everyone talking about #community. #cannabiscommunity refers to the larger community of #cannabis users, a counter culture reference more than anything. What about operators? We're doing something that's incredibly difficult. We're building businesses in a developing industry where there's no playbook for success, access to capital is limited, and massive volatility is the norm. I've been an #entrepreneur for the majority of my career. Entrepreneurship is a lonely endeavor. Being an executive is hard, it can be lonely at the top. Being an entrepreneur or executive in the #cannabisindustry is a double whammy, lonely and stressful, squared. The most helpful thing I've found is the camaraderie of like minded people who are going through the same thing. On the most stressful of days, just knowing your not alone is comforting. Having a peer group to bounce big decisions off of is also incredibly valuable. That's why we built the Elite Cannabis Operators Mastermind Community, to create a forum for founders and executives in the cannabis space to come together and support each other. It's a vetted community for high level plant touching and ancillary operators who are also amazing people. If you're interested in networking with like minded people, we got that. If you want to connect with experienced peers who can give feedback on major decisions, we got that. Whether you've been in the game for a long time and you want to expand your network out of state, or you're new to the industry and looking for mentorship, we got that covered. If you've been sitting on the sidelines wondering about what we're doing, I encourage you to come check it out, it's a powerful group. Shoot me a DM for info on how to apply.

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#RiskManagementAutomation Goodbye to false health claims, Hello #Hemp #Cannabis #Wellness Personalization. Consumers yearn for products that truly deliver on their promises, but are bombarded with fake reviews, misleading claims, and uncertainty about product origins. It's time for a change. Did you know that over 70% of #wellness products contain #contaminants and prohibited ingredients? That's where we step in. By leveraging the power of #AI, we're revolutionizing the wellness industry for #consumers and the #retailers and #brands they shop from. By meticulously analyzing ingredients, #cannabinoids, terpenes, and customer experiences, we offer a tailored approach to wellness. We provide immersive insights, enforce rigorous testing standards, and predict personalized benefits and potential downsides based on each customer's unique health profile. Sources: - https://lnkd.in/eMdatqFK - https://shorturl.at/lpAGH - https://shorturl.at/jDFUV

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If you're a paid #CannabisCMO subscriber, you get early access to this week's interview with former CMO Joe Hodas who will soon be taking over as CEO of Wana Brands! Check it out here: https://lnkd.in/gnkX52Hd #cannabis #cannabisindustry #cannabismarketing #cannabisbrand #branding #marketing #digitalmarketing

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