Tripp Keber, CEO of Dixie Brands, gave a presentation at the State of Marijuana 2015 conference in Santa Monica, California on 9/26/15.

Summary

• First time to ever speak officially in California
• California has been an industry leader for decades
• Tripp discussed his entry into the industry a few years ago following his observation that his alcohol-related business might be impacted by MJ legalization
• While “profit” was his initial pursuit, he realized early on that making a profit is challenging but also has gained a tremendous appreciation for the health and wellness aspects of cannabis
• In the last year, Dixie has had to make 3 package changes and expects another change within the next six months.
• Pesticides are a serious industry issue
• Tripp owns or invests in 28 companies, 1/2 direct and 1/2 ancillary
• 150 SKUs now across 15 or so delivery platforms
• Foria alliance is an example of leveraging capabilities
• Two CBD-focused health and wellness companies launched, Aceso for humans and Therabis for animals
• Excited about MassRoots, where he serves as a director
• Entrepreneurs should focus on applying technology to the industry
• Industry lacks infrastructure, like banking, but other areas as well
• Industry has unique attributes, especially how legacy and new entrants interact.
• Need to collaborate better
• Tripp expects the federal government will legalize in 2017, deferring to states to regulate

Published by NCV Newswire

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