New Cannabis Beverage Council Aimed At Expanding Canna-Drinks Segment
The American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp (ATACH) announced the formation of ATACH’s Cannabis Beverage Council.
The council will bring together the most established cannabis and beverage leaders focused on expanding the cannabis beverage market. The canna-drink market doubled over the past two years according to cannabis-industry analytics firm Headset’s 2019 cannabis beverage report. BDSA Analytics cites the canna-beverage market as making up 5 percent of overall cannabis sales in the United States and 23 percent in Canada, suggesting further U.S. growth.
“The maturing cannabis consumer and even traditional alcohol consumers may explore cannabis-infused drinks and drink mixes as an alternative consumption option,” said Christy Zhou, a founding council member. “These beverage products can differ from traditional solid edibles in their format and effects, and as such, should be approached thoughtfully from a regulatory perspective. As early adopters, it is our duty to help shape regulations such that they encourage the development of responsible and innovative beverage products.”
Founding council members include:
- David Klein, Canopy Growth CEO and ATACH’s “Beverage Executive of the Year”
- Adolphus Busch V, founder, ABV Cannabis Co.
- Scott Coors, business entrepreneur and board of directors, SeroVita Holding Corp.
- Christy Zhou, vice president, Legal and Regulatory Affairs, Organigram
- Erik Knutson, CEO and co-founder, Keef Brands
- Bill Silver, president of new markets, Cannacraft
- Chuck Smith, CEO, BellRock Brands
- Koji Pupo, vice president of business development, Columbia Distributing
- Gary Kaminsky, director of legal compliance, Acreage Holdings
- Jake Bullock, co-founder, CANN
- Josh Lizotte, CEO, Rebel Coast