Growpacker, a Canada-based contract manufacturer of THC- and CBD-infused edibles and beverages, has launched a new incubator programme to fast-track THC and CBD brands in California.
The first participating firm is Ceria Brewing Company, which was co-founded by Keith Villa – creator and former brewmaster of Blue Moon beer.
Last December, the company launched its first THC-infused, de-alcoholised craft beer, Grainwave, in Colorado. Growpacker and Ceria are planning to launch the beverage in California soon.
Growpacker said it anticipates that Ceria can become a market leader for de-alcoholised cannabis-infused beer in North America, due to the founders’ “unique brewing process, custom formulations, great-tasting brews and partnerships with top industry advisors”.
The incubator aims to give Growpacker manufacturing partners the opportunity to leverage its expertise, gain early access to new formulations, receive discounted services and fast-track market penetration in California.
“We look forward to introducing this innovative new product category to America’s largest cannabis market through Growpacker’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and distribution network,” said Keith Villa.
“As the leading co-packer in cannabis, Growpacker is helping tomorrow’s brand names grow and scale commercially, while also accelerating the evolution of California’s adult-use market.”
Stephen Boyd, CEO of Growpacker, added: “As our first incubator and accelerator brand, Ceria Brewing Company arrives at a transformational stage in our company’s evolution.
“We are excited to begin this journey with Ceria, and work with their talented team as they move their momentum across the country, establishing their market presence in California. We have seen tremendous interest in this incubator programme and look forward to building one of North America’s largest portfolios of innovative cannabis brands.”
In addition to being part of Growpacker’s incubator, Keith Villa will serve as a strategic advisor to Growpacker for its cannabis beverage category, where he will play a role in developing the de-alcoholised THC-infused beverage segment.
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