You might think that cannabis companies have to operate in the shadows, away from the mainstream market and the public eye. But that’s not the case anymore. Some of the biggest names in cannabis are joining forces with national brands to create products that appeal to a wider audience and boost their visibility.
From burgers to bunnies, here are some of the most surprising and exciting collaborations between cannabis companies and national brands.
Kiva x Fatburger: THC-Infused Ketchup
Who doesn’t love a good burger? Especially when it comes with a side of THC-infused ketchup. That’s what Kiva Confections, a maker of cannabis edibles in six states, is offering in partnership with Fatburger, a burger chain with over 200 locations across the U.S. and Canada.
For a limited time, customers can buy a packet of Kiva x Fatburger ketchup for $5 at two Los Angeles retail chains, Artist Tree and Sweet Flower. The ketchup contains 10mg of THC, which is enough to give you a mild buzz without getting too high.
The goal of this collaboration is to get cannabis into the conversation and introduce new consumers to edibles. Kiva’s co-founder Kristi Palmer said: “We want to reach a new consumer set with something fun and engaging.”
Sackville & Co. x Playboy: Platinum Smoking Collection
Playboy is not just a magazine. It’s also a lifestyle brand that celebrates sexuality, freedom and self-expression. And now, it’s also a cannabis brand that partners with Sackville & Co., a female-founded company that makes stylish smoking accessories.
The two brands have created a “Platinum Smoking Collection” to celebrate Playboy’s platinum anniversary. The collection features two products: a Crystal Ball Pipe ($112) and a Silver Charm Case ($200) inspired by retro cigarette cases. Both products are adorned with Playboy logos and motifs.
The collection is part of Playboy’s cannabis advocacy initiative, which aims to destigmatize cannabis use and support social justice causes. Sackville & Co.'s co-founder Hayley Dineen said: “We are thrilled to partner with Playboy on this collection that celebrates self-care, pleasure and cannabis.”
Green Thumb x Circle K: Adjacent Dispensaries
Sometimes, the best partnerships are the ones that make sense geographically. That’s the case for Green Thumb Industries, a cannabis consumer packaged goods company and owner of RISE Dispensaries, and Circle K, a convenience store chain with over 15,000 locations worldwide.
The two companies have announced a deal to open 10 medical cannabis dispensaries adjacent to Circle K stores in Florida. The dispensaries will sell pre-rolls, vapes and edibles made from cannabis grown at Green Thumb’s 28-acre cultivation facility in Ocala.
The deal is expected to benefit both parties by increasing foot traffic, customer loyalty and brand awareness. Green Thumb’s founder and CEO Ben Kovler said: “This partnership is consistent with our strategy of expanding our distribution channels while creating shareholder value.”
The Future of Cannabis is Collaborative
These are just some examples of how cannabis companies are teaming up with national brands to create innovative products and experiences. As the cannabis industry grows and matures, we can expect to see more collaborations like these that challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of creativity.
Cannabis companies are not afraid to partner with national brands, even if they’re not federally legal yet. They know that by doing so, they can reach new customers, build trust and credibility, and showcase their products in a positive light.
Cannabis companies are not just selling weed. They’re selling a lifestyle. And they’re doing it with style.