BusinessMJ
FunkAway Tackles Odor at the Source – Not Just the Surface
An interview with Kyle Bolke, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, FunkAway, LLC
MBSD: What is FunkAway best known for?
K B : F u n k A w a y i s k n o w n
u g h , embedded odors from clothes, gear, cars and homes –and is shaking up the way consumers think about freshness Unlike sprays that mask smells with fragrances and chemicals, FunkAway created an OM Complex™, a patented technology that traps and destroys odor molecules leaving your items or spaces free of odors.
M B S D : W h a t makes FunkAway d
ers?
KB: Most sprays
The APEHEX Machine Redefines Pre-Roll Production
In an industry increasingly shaped by technology, the APEHEX Automated Pre-Roll Machine is emerging as a symbol of precision and productivity in cannabis manu f a c t u r i n g D e v e l o p e d b y P e r f e c t i o n i s t R o l l i n g Equipment (PRE), a Phoenix, Arizona-based company, founded and operated by cannabis professionals, the APEHEX is making waves for its ability to combine speed, consistency and craftsmanship in one sleek, industrial package
At its core, the APEHEX is designed to solve a problem that has long plagued cannabis producers: The inconsistency of hand-rolled joints The system features six independent lanes – eschewing the slower carousel format common to other machines – and delivers a remarkable output of up to 1,100 pre-rolls per hour Each joint can be customized between 0 3 a n d 1 2 5
, with a professional “Dutch Crown”
3 Reasons the VFS-1000 Smokes All Other Systems
1. Stand-Alone System
Advancing Flavors and Innovation in Cannabis Science
The VFS-1000 is designed to integrate seamlessly with any printer or labeling system, making it one of the most versatile feeding solutions in the cannabis packaging market. As a distributor, Dartronics helps match your operation with the perfect combination of hardware from the extensive catalog, ensuring every setup is built for your specific workflow. Whether you’re running flower, edibles, tinctures or concentrates, the VFS1000 adapts to your process, eliminating bottlenecks and simplifying your setup from day one
Continued on Page 25
How CannaZip Is Changing the Cannabis Packaging Game
Executive Officer, CannaZip
MBSD: What inspired the creation of CannaZip?
AS: We recog-
logistics in a single workflow – speeding time to market while reducing headaches
MBSD: What makes CannaZip stand out?
AS: Our domestic-first model eliminates delays, tariff
#C23622 Continued on Page 21
For over a decade, The Terpene Store has been a leading flavorhouse for terpenes in the industry Known w o r l d w i d e f o r u n m a t c h e d q u a l ity, consistency and i n n o v a t i o n , T h e Terpene Store has set the gold standard in aroma and f l a v o r
Every bottle repre-
s i o n o f n a
r e , chemistry and crea t i v i t y : d e l i v e r i n g the purest, most precise terpenes on the market.
Experience the Science of Perfection Terpenes are the heartbeat of scent and flavor A team of experts uses cutting-edge GC-MS testing and
Tucson Dispensary Tackles Cannabis Resource Puzzle
Arizona's persistent drought underscores the urgency of understanding how industries, including cannabis, impact our finite water resources. Without statewide tracking, estimates of annual cannabis water use vary widely, from hundreds of millions to potentially over one billion gallons, highlighting the need for Arizona to explore best practices from other states
D2 has launched ecopride com as an educational platform for Tucsonans and all Arizonans to dive into water inventory challenges, risks of inaction, cannabis water tools and actionable steps for involvement –fostering an informed path forward
D2 Dispensaries is leading by example in
BOOTH
BOOTH #C23312
BOOTH #C21622
BOOTH #C23721
High-Quality Equipment vs. Cheaper Alternatives
While the importance of candy depositors, demolders and silicone molds in cannabis edible production cannot be overstated, manufacturers must also make a critical decision regarding the equipment they choose to invest in. One option is to purchase high-quality, i n d u s t r y - s t a n d a r d e q u i p m e n t , o f t e n sourced from reputable manufacturers in North America or Europe The alternative is opting for cheaper, mass-pro-
duced equipment made in countries like China
Benefits of High-Quality Equipment
H i g h - q u a l i t y c a n d y d e p o s i t o r s , demolders and silicone molds come with a range of benefits that directly impact the production process and the final product These machines are built with precision, durability and ease of maintenance in mind They offer fea-
Capturing the Cannabis Market with Specialty Finishes
B y D r a g a n N i k o l i c , P a r t n e r s h i p s & Enablement Lead, Nobelus
A growing market is a competitive market, and the cannabis industry is no exception As consumers continue to seek out new products and experiences, it is more important for brands to stand out than ever before Purchases are not made a t t h e r e g i s t e r ; t h e y h a p p e n mentally at the shelf when a con-
s u m e r f i n d s a p r o d u c t t h a t a p p e a l s t o t h e m P a c k a g i n g plays a primary role in this first impression.
H
a t appeals to more than one sense
tures that ensure accuracy in dosing, consistency in product shape and minimal downtime for maintenance In the cannabis edibles industry, where dosing accuracy and consistency are param o u n t , h i g h - q u a l i t y m a c h i n e s a n d molds help prevent costly mistakes, such as inaccurate dosages or mold defects, which can lead to customer d i s s a t i s f a c t i o n a n d p o t e n t i a l l e g a l issues
Moreover, high-end equipment is often designed with scalability in mind, a l l o w i n g m a n u f a c t u r e r s t o i n c r e a s e production volumes without sacrificing product quality. These machines are a l s o e a s i e r t o c l e a n a n d m a i n t a i n , which is crucial for ensuring sanitary p r o d u c t i o n e n v i r o n m e n t s , e s p e c i a l l y when working with cannabis, which requires strict adherence to health and safety regulations
Drawbacks of Cheaper Equipment
Opting for cheaper equipment may s e e m a p p e a l i n g d u e t o t h e i r l o w e r upfront cost; however, these machines often come with a range of issues that can compromise production quality One of the most significant problems is the lack of precision in dosing and t e m p e r a t u r e s , w h i c h c a n r e s u l t i n i n c o n s i s t e n t p r o d u c t s . F o r c a n n a b i s e d i b l e s , t h
e detrimental, as consumers depend on accurate dosages for safety and effectiveness
Cheaper equipment may also be l e s s d u
maintenance costs and downtime, ultimately reducing production efficiency. F
materials used in these machines can lead to more frequent breakdowns, c a u s i n g d
is significantly more likely to result in a sale Adding a tactile element to packaging, such as a velvety soft-touch finish or a gritty sandpaper feel, drastically improves how the packaging (and the product) is viewed by the consumer O n t h e o t h e r h a n d , i n a n e r a
marked by next-day shipping and boutique brands, the ability to get products on the shelf quickly can be just as important as packaging quality. Digital packaging is ideal for short-run and ondemand volumes as labels and pouches can be produced with minimal lead times in small quantities For this market, specialty thermal laminates serve as a perfect solution for packaging converters who want to create products with premium finishes while keeping p a c e w i t h n o n - s t o p demand
C
a t e specialty finishes into their marketing strategy by correlating specific products or collections with a particular finish. For instance, a c o m p a n y t h a t s e l l s cannabis gummies in a variety of flavors might use a soft-touch finish for their vanilla flavor, a
term, the cost savings from purchasing c h e a p e r e q u i p m e n t m a y b e o u tweighed by the expense of repairs, replacements and the potential loss of customer trust due to product defects
For more information, see Truffly Made at booth #C21413 or visit www truffly made com
gritty finish for sour candies and a holographic pattern for mixed berry
Specialty finishes can also play a pivotal role in maintaining brand consistency between different packaging types. If a brand uses a soft-touch finish on pouches, using the same finish for sachets, labels, cartons and other packaging formats can help establish a stronger brand presence and, by extension, create brand loyalty With this strategy, consumers come to associate the premium feel of the packaging with the brand’s overall quality and desirability
Finishing solutions suppliers like Nobelus offer a wide range of specialty finishes as both thermal laminates and a d h e s i v e - f r e e f i l m s t o s u p p o r t a n y packaging format From unforgettable haptic films to unmatched durability and irresistible holographic patterns, these finishes are perfect for any converter or brand that wants to make their mark in the cannabis industry
RIOCOCO – Sustainable Substrates Powering the Future of Cannabis Cultivation
For more than two decades, RIOCOCO has led the way in delivering 100% natu r a l , r e n e w a b l e c o c o c o i r g r o w i n g m e d i a t o c u l t i v a t o r s w o r l d w i d e . R I O C O C O ’ s O p e n T o p B a g s , s t a r t e r blocks and plugs are manufactured in its production plants in Sri Lanka using renewable coconut husks Each product is carefully designed to provide ideal pH, low EC, excellent drainage and superior Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) – making them a perfect match for cannabis cultivation.
“ G r o w e r s n e e d c o n s i s t e n c y a n d s u s t a i n a b i l i t y , ” s a y s S h a n H a l a m b a , Chief Executive Officer of RIOCOCO “RIOCOCO products deliver both Our mission is to support cultivators in prod u c i n g c l e a n , h i g h - q u a l i t y c a n n a b i s while protecting the environment ” OMRI-certified coir fiber functions as a highly effective sustainable growth media, sourced directly from ripened coconut husks Renewable coco coir fibers provide an enhanced CEC for supplying nutrients from the soilless growth medium The major benefits offered by RIOCOCO’s eco-friendly coir medium for plant growth speak for themselves. Cultivators throughout the c a n n a b i s i n d u s t r y a r e c h o o s i n g t h e solutions offered by RIOCOCO’s PCM l i n e t o e n s u r e c o n s i s t e n t h e a l t h y growth from clone to flower Flushing excess nutrients from the medium, at the end of the flowering cycle, allows for improved taste and resin product i o n f r o m p l a n t s e n e s c e n c e . S i n c e RIOCOCO’s coconut coir has a uniquely high CEC, it responds to changes in required EC quickly and efficiently to readily support crop steering
Nowadays, you can find numerous mediums other than organic soil in which to grow cannabis. Unlike stone wool, perlite or peat, the unique properties of our RIOCOCO coir substrate make it the ideal choice for growing high-quality cannabis RIOCOCO has a naturally-
occurring pH of 5 5-6 8 Other mediums require continuous monitoring of rhizosphere pH conditions Their low CEC allows for minimal buffering and significant pH swings. RIOCOCO coir provides the root zone pH stability necessary for consistent nutrient uptake
The moisture retention capacity and air-filled porosity of RIOCOCO’s c o c o n u t c o i r i s c o n t r o l l a b l e S i n c e unbuffered coir breaks down slowly, it maintains air pockets in the root zone, allowing excess moisture to drain away from plant roots Lower quality coco coir substrates have excessive particles l e s s t h a n 4 m m i n s i z e T h i s s l o w s drainage and diminishes the availability of oxygen to the roots At the same time, the coir itself holds onto enough moisture so that its retention curve plateaus at the perfect point for generative crop steering and prevents wilting The dual drainage and retention properties of coco coir simplifies irrigation management
RIOCOCO’s coco coir is completely s u s t a i n a b l e , a n a t u r a l b y p r o d u c t o f coconut harvests, and an abundant resource. RIOCOCO produces and supplies the world’s most consistent and trusted coconut coir products to growers around the globe
RIOCOCOs compostable grow bags keep plastic pots out of landfills where they take centuries to fully break down RIOCOCO’s ECOPURE grow bags are made of a cutting-edge biodegradable polymer, breaking down in two years.
A t b o o t h # N 1 4 1 1 7 , R I O C O C O i s p r e s e n t i n g i t s l a t e s t i n n o v a t i o n s i n open top bags and starter block technology, including advanced aeration designs that support root health and water efficiency
F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , g o t o w w w .riococo-mmj.com, call 850.557.0903 or 214 492 0803, email info@riococo com or stop by booth #N14117
CanPay Launches Industry-First Free Merchant Gift Card Program
CanPay, the pioneering pay-by-bank app and payments network trusted by traditional and cannabis retailers alike, announced the launch of its free merchant gift card program, the first of its kind to offer zero cost to merchants for issuing and managing g i f t c a r d s T h i s m e a n s
offered gift cards – or already does and is looking to cut costs –now they can do so completely free through CanPay’s platform
Why This Matters
Program Highlights
•
charges, no cost for issuing, no pertransaction fees
For too long, many merchants have been held back from offering gift cards because of setup costs, management fees, regulations and ongoing operational burdens Others who already run gift card programs see significant costs
solution flips that paradigm CanPay’s Chief Executive Officer, Dustin Eide, says, “With this free gift card program open to all businesses, we’re removing one of the last barriers for merchants – cost – and enabling every retailer, including those in regulated industries, to engage customers, b
n d d r i v e i n c r e m e n t a l sales without paying for the privilege ” Eide’s vision follows the company’s history of delivering transparent, costeffective payment solutions to merchants and their customers.
Key Benefits for Merchants
• Capture incremental sales and raise average transaction value: Gift cards can help boost the total spend per transaction and attract new customers In many cases, customers redeeming gift cards spend more than the card value.
• Boost customer acquisition and loyalty: Gift cards are an effective way to bring in new customers – recipients who may not otherwise shop with you – and then convert them into repeat buyers
• Provide marketing value and brand visibility: Gift cards serve like mini-billboards, keeping the merchant’s brand top-of-mind
• Lower friction and cost compared to l e g a c y s o l u t i o n s : B e c a u s e C a n P a y ’ s program is free for merchants, the key barrier of legacy gift card programs is eliminated. For merchants already running a gift card program, shifting to CanPay can reduce or eliminate costly i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , i s s u a n c e a n d m a i n t enance fees
• Available to highly regulated merchants: Since CanPay already supports regulated industries like cannabis, this gift card program opens up opportunities for retailers in those spaces to participate in the gift card ecosystem.
• Accept gift cards anywhere: Designed for ins
mobile redemption
• Full integration with t h
CanPay’s existing payments infrastructure to support gift card redemption seamlessly
• Ideal for retailers that already offer gift cards: CanPay’s free program helps those merchants reduce overhead and improve margins.
•
deterred by cost or complexity, they now have a path to participation at no cost
•
cannabis retail: Whether you operate a boutique, a chain, a dispensary or other regulated business, you can now offer gift cards through CanPay
How Can Merchants Learn More Merchants interested in launching a gift card program via CanPay – either to replace an existing costly program or to start one with no cost – can visit www.canpaydebit.com or contact your C
onboarding details
About CanPay
CanPay, founded in 2016, is the largest multi-retail and ecommerce pay-bybank payments network, seamlessly facilitating transactions between consumers’ bank accounts and retail businesses CanPay’s easy-to-use payment solution is geared for traditional retailers as well as emerging markets and businesses in highly regulated industries The CanPay team, with over 30 years of payments industry experience, set out to develop the most stable, reliable payment solution across retail sectors – one that saves both consumers and retailers money compared to traditional payment options, which rely on credit card networks that charge significant fees CanPay’s Purchase Power algorithm minimizes fraud, protecting retailers and consumers. The company continues to build its proprietary network of financial institutions, specialized technology providers, consumers and retailers – with the aim of making payments everywhere safe, simple, low-cost, transparent and even more rewarding
F
.canpaydebit.com.
Convenience Meets Innovation in Evolution of Cannabis Beverages
T h e c a n n a b i s b e v e r a g e i n d u s t r y i s moving beyond traditional ready-todrink 12-ounce cans to new formats like shots, sticks of powdered drinks and sampler packs
The innovative new offerings are a hit with consumers and retailers – but they also reflect a broader shift in the cannabis beverage space, operators in the rapidly expanding product category say.
W h e n c a n n a b i s d r i n k s d e b u t e d , ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages in cans were the go-to format because they were familiar and easy to market, says Diana Eberlein, Chief External Affairs Officer at California-based ingredient manufacturer Vertosa and Founder of C o a l i t i o n f o r A d u l t B e v e r a g e Alternatives (CABA)
“A cold can in the hand is something people recognize,” she said
The move away from cans is driven b y c o n s u m e r b e h a v i o r , r e t a i l c o nstraints and the desire for product differentiation.
The Rise of Shots and Stick Packs Along with THC-Infused Beverage Cans
A s t h e $ 1 b i l l i o n m a r k e t f o r T H Ci n f u s e d b e v e r a g e s m a t u r e s , s a v v y brands are realizing that one size – or format – does not fit all
R e t a i l e r s – p a r t i c u l a r l y c o n v e nience stores – have limited shelf space and are pushing for smaller or more
Tucson Dispensary (Cont’d. from p. 1)
D2 has cut its water usage by more than 40% in the last two years Even with some of the state's largest dispensaries, D2 keeps its operational scale compact relative to the broader industry, representing only a minimal share of overall consumption.
T o p r o m o t e e d u c a t i o n a n d accountability, D2 is openly disclosing that its production facility averaged 143,180 gallons total monthly last year for about 18,000 square feet of cultivation and 32,000 square feet dedicated t o e x t r a c t i o n , m a n u f a c t u r i n g a n d kitchen needs. D2 pays monthly utility bills ranging from $2,000-$2,200 for water, sewer and environmental services at its production facility D2 believes that Tucsonans will gravitate towards
(Cont’d from p 1)
c o m p l i c a t i o n s a n d m i s c o m m u n i c ations often associated with offshore suppliers. We consolidate everything: g r a p h i c d e s i g n , p r i n t i n g , p a c k a g i n g and fulfillment – all under one roof
MBSD: How do you support both small and large-scale businesses?
compact products
Shots and stick packs take up less r o o m a n d a r e e a s i e r t o s t o c k . A n d shots, typically 2-ounce servings, have become a popular entry point for new consumers looking to try a product without committing to a full-sized beverage
Liquor stores, on the other hand, are embracing larger formats like 750milliliter bottles, which cater to consumers looking for a more premium, at-home experience
“Once people try the product and realize they like it, they often move to l a r g e r f o r m a t s f o r t h e b e t
c e point,” Eberlein said
Stick packs, which contain powdered cannabis emulsions, are another e m e r g i n g
s e r v e packets can be mixed with water or other beverages, giving consumers the flexibility to customize their experience
Stick packs are lightweight, easy to transport and have a longer shelf life than liquid products, making them an attractive option for both consumers and retailers And sample packs follow a well-trod model successful in the alcohol industry
Cannabis Beverages a Friendly Alternative for New Consumers
But as cannabis beverages gain mainstream acceptance and become avail-
dispensaries who are transparent and share their water usage numbers and costs
"Arizona's water future hinges on informed stewardship, not guesswork," said Moe Asnani, Co-Founder of D2 Dispensaries "As someone who has lived in Tucson since 1999, it is tough to see how hard inflation has hit our community. We pay for our water and work hard to provide locally grown premium
Tucsonans "
Several states with legal cannabis set grow limits to align production with available resources. In Arizona, the absence of such caps has prompted calls for deeper analysis of expansion's effects on water supplies D2 advocates for public education on these topics, especially
AS: We offer low minimums and fast turnaround for startups needing just a few hundred units, and we scale to meet high-volume demands for established operators. Custom pouches, jars, shrink sleeves – we can handle any format with quality and compliance
MBSD: Any recent accolades or milestones?
able at major multi-item retailers such as Target, Circle K and Total Wine, consumer education also remains a priority
Many people are still unfamiliar with THC dosing or how the products differ from traditional edibles.
“ T a k e m y m o m , f o r e x a m p l e , ” Matthew Shirah, Chief Executive Officer of Atlanta-based beverage manufact u r e r S c o f f l a w B e v e r a g e C o , w h i c h makes beverages for brands like Wana Brands and Uncle Arnie’s “She’s not going to smoke a joint, but she’ll try a beverage,” he said. “It’s approachable and easy to consume.”
Looking ahead, Eberlein predicts a shift toward functional beverages with added cannabinoids and adaptogens that promise specific effects like focus or relaxation
“ U n l e s s i t ’ s b r u n c h o n S u n d a y , most people don’t drink alcohol at all times of the day, but with THC they do,” she said.
“They may use beverages throughout the day for different reasons – you m a y d r i n k a b e v e r a g e a t n o o n f o r focus ”
How to Ensure Quality and Consistency in Cannabis Drinks
T h e s h i f t t o n e w b e v e r a g e f o r m a t s presents challenges along with exciting opportunities
U n l i k e s h e l f - s t a b l e a l c o h o l , T H C
a n d o t h e r c a n n a b i n o i d s c a n l o s e
p o t e n c y q u i c k l y i f t h e e n v i r o n m e n t isn’t controlled
And ensuring the THC is evenly distributed throughout the vessel is
amid statewide conservation efforts.
demand, prompting broader conversat
environmental realities in this evolving sector
"Water is life in the desert," said C o n s u e l o H e r n a n d e z , S t a t e Representative for Legislative District 21 who sponsored HB 2941 to control s t a t e w i d e c a n n a b i s
with agriculture, mining, chip manufacturing, AI data centers and new residential and commercial development I am not sure we can sustain overprod u c i n g a c o n t r o l l e d s u b s t a n c e t h a t cannot even be sold outside Arizona legally "
In parallel with water conservation,
important to ensure that if two people a r e s p l i t t i n g a d r i n k , o n e p e r s o n doesn’t end up with all the effects
“Consistency is key,” Eberlien said “Flavor is king, but if you can’t deliver a consistent experience, the consumer isn’t going to stick with your product.”
And shelf life can vary for different cannabinoids, terpenes and beverage types, said Harold Han, Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer of Vertosa
T h e r e c e n t l y l a u n c h e d V e r t o s a Verify program is geared toward ensuring beverages meet seven steps in the supply chain that ensure consistency in cannabis beverages.
These are:
• Cannabinoid type
• Emulsion type
• Formulation
• Packaging
• Co-manufacturing
• Testing
• Distribution and retail
“Cannabis beverages are already in the mainstream, but more regulation is going to come down, so we need to prepare ourselves,” Han said
Smaller and Faster –
The Tech Revolution in THC Beverages THC beverage manufacturing equipment has also improved, said Shirah of Scofflaw
A n o t h e r g a m e - c h a n g e r f o r S c o f f l a w h a s b e e n t h e a d o p t i o n o f high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) equipment
Popularized during the COVID-19
Continued on Page 25
D2 pursues green advancements such as sustainable packaging and efficient l i g h t i n g , d e l i v e r i n g q u a l i t y c a n n a b i s that prioritizes community and environmental health
About D2 Dispensaries
D2 Dispensaries is a locally owned and operated cannabis company with locations in Downtown Tucson, Eastside Tucson and Oracle & Roger Known for q u a l i t y p r o d u c t s , l a r g e s t o r e s a n d expert service, D2 is also a sustainability leader in the industry By limiting its
resources responsibly, D2 offers Tucson r e s i d
choice. F
d2dispensary com
Cannabis Business Insights was a major honor. It acknowledges our commitment to quality and innovation.
MBSD: What’s next for CannaZip?
AS: We're focusing on expanding sustainable options – like biodegradable
hemp plastic tubes – and enhancing our product catalog to meet evolving compliance and branding trends With an in-house design team, fast U.S. production and nationwide distribution,
brand at a time
For more information, go to www canna zipbags com or stop by booth #C21622
CannaZip
s t r i c t q u a l i t y c o n t r o l t o g u a r a n t e e every product meets our uncompromising standards of purity and performance
No fillers. No shortcuts. Just 100% food-grade terpenes designed to deliver extraordinary aroma, flavor and consistency batch after batch
Trusted by Innovators Everywhere
The Terpene Store is not just a supplier It is your creative partner in formulation, innovation and brand success The Terpene Store (Cont’d from p 1)
Where Science Meets Imagination
Every blend begins with science and e
Store’s proprietary formulations recre-
s
Unlock endless possibilities for your brand. If you can imagine the flavor, The Terpene Store will help you bring it to life
Leading the Future of Terpenes
With The Terpene Store, innovation never stops It is constantly pushing boundaries through research, educa-
tion and collaboration to advance terpene science worldwide The Terpene Store’s mission is simple: To make the driving products in our industry taste just as good as they smell
Join leading cannabis brands such as STIIIZY, Turn, Muha Meds and many more to see why they use The Terpene Store as their leading terpenes partner
F o r m o r e i n f o r
theterpenestore com or stop by booth #C23721
FunkAway (Cont’d. from p. 1) fabrics?
just cover up odors with fragrance –F u n k A w a y i s d i f f e r e n t O u r O M
C o m
nates odor molecules, especially those caused by sweat That means once the funk is gone, it stays gone
MBSD: Who is FunkAway designed for?
KB: Anyone who sweats, moves or lives life actively That includes athletes, mili
y p e r s o n n e l , f i r s t r e s p o n d e r s , healthcare workers, pet owners and parents with kids in sports – or just kids i n g e n e r a l . W e a l s o h a v e p r o d u c t s being used by farmers, construction
(Cont’d from p 1)
hand craftsmanship
Beyond sheer output, the APEHEX promises consistency that human labor simply can’t match Every pre-roll is uniform in weight, density and burn quality – attributes that are crucial for building consumer trust and brand loyalty The machine’s compact 27” x 36” foot footprint makes it suitable even for smaller production spaces, while its i
VFS-1000 (Cont’d. from p. 1)
2. Built for Speed & Scale
Handling up to 60 pouches or zippered bags per minute, the VFS-1000 keeps pace with even the fastest production lines Its durable design and precision
c o n t r o l s e n s u r e c o n s i s t e n t p e r f o r mance, whether you’re packaging small batches or scaling to high-volume outp u t W i t h
D
o n i c s built the VFS-1000 to help cannabis
Cannabis Beverages (Cont’d from p 21)
pandemic, the lab technology allows for in-house testing of THC dosages, enabling real-time adjustments
“It allows us to move a little faster because we can test milligram dosages a n d m a k e a d j u s t m e n t s i n - h o u s e , ” Shirah said. “Every batch is a little bit different ”
“If you’ve got the HPLC in-house, you can move faster ”
workers and even musicians who use it on their gear If it stinks, FunkAway can handle it
MBSD: Which products are the most popular?
KB: Our best-sellers include the FunkAway Aerosol Spray, ideal for shoes and gym bags, and our odor eliminating beads, which is great for eliminating odors throughout the household Our Travel-Sized Spray is a fan favorite for people on the go We’ve also launched a new Car Odor Eliminator that’s getting great early feedback
MBSD: Is FunkAway safe to use on all
smooth and even burns
The financial case for automation is equally compelling By reducing the need for manual labor, the APEHEX allows producers to reallocate their workforce to higher-value tasks while improving production efficiency. Industry reports have noted that facilities adopting the system often see “increased output and decreased labor expenses,” giving operators a tangible return on investment For many, this marks a critical step
maintaining throughput and quality as their business grows Expand your output without expanding headaches –your line runs smoothly and efficiently from start to finish
3 Accuracy & Reliability
E
Elevating Cannabis Drinks with Flavor and Form
Evan Eneman, Co-Founder and Chief
E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r o f I c o n i c T o n i c s , focuses on creating products that resonate with consumers on a cultural and lifestyle level.
“We don’t build the technology itself, like emulsification,” he said “We focus on the liquid, the design and the format of the product ”
This holistic approach has led to
KB: Yes, FunkAway is safe for most fabrics and materials, including synthetics like polyester, which tend to trap odors Always test on a small area first, but w e ’ v e d e s i g n e d o u r f o r m u l a t o b e tough on funk and gentle on your stuff.
MBSD: Does FunkAway have a strong scent?
K B : N o , a n d t h a t ’ s i n t e n t i o n a l O u r products are lightly scented but not overpowering The goal isn’t to cover up odors with perfume – it’s to eliminate the funk so you’re left with a clean, neutral scent. We are creating a new
toward scaling up in a competitive and rapidly expanding market
T o f u r t h e r e a s e a d o p t i o n ,
Perfectionist Rolling Equipment offers no bank leasing and financing programs, making the technology accessible to a wider range of businesses. The company also provides training and support to ensure operators can fully harness the machine’s capabilities
As automation continues to shape the future of cannabis production, the APEHEX stands out as more than just a
odorless spray, which should be available early 2026
MBSD: What’s next for FunkAway?
KB: We’re expanding into a few new markets and working on fresh product innovations, including an odor eliminating puck, which will be sold in Giant Foods and a specific puck for Walmart’s baby department We are also very excited for our new launch with Albertsons in October, where we will be launching our odor eliminating beads in over 2,200 of their stores across the nation F o r m
o w w w .funkaway.com.
machine – it’s a milestone It represents the fusion of modern engineering and t r a d i t i o n a l c r a f t s m a n s h i p
product For producers looking to raise their standards and stay ahead of the curve, the APEHEX may well be the future of the pre-roll industry.
tony@rollingpartners com or stop by booth #C23312
Bonus Reason
Stop by booth #C23622 to experience the VFS-1000 difference Let Dartronics show you how a custom-built system can streamline your packaging line and help you scale with confidence F o r m o
o n , g o t o www dartronics com, call 732 324 0800, email sales@dartronics com or stop by booth #C23622
Made in the United States, the VFS1000 helps you avoid long overseas lead times, shipping delays and import tariffs Enjoy easier access to parts, service and expert local support – all while keeping your packaging line operating at full speed.
d e v e l o p m e n t s i n f l a v o r s , p a c k a g i n g and form factors, all aimed at delivering a better consumer experience
While many cannabis beverages s t i c k t o f a m i l i a r p r o f i l e s l i k e b l o o d orange or blue raspberry, Eneman sees and opportunity to push boundaries by offering flavors such as Bosphorus.
A take in a Middle Eastern flavor profile, Iconic Tonic makes the apricotforward flavor with rose and simple syrup for the Klaus brand
D o w n t h e r o a d , E n e m a n s e e s cannabis drinks sold in the same type of bottles used by wine and spirit companies – and he sees THC beverages w o r k i n g a l o n g s i d e m o r e t r a d i t i o n a l alcohol offerings
“Beverages are showing up alongside beer, wine and spirits, not instead of them,” he said “We don’t have to t a k e o v e r e v e r y t h i n g i n t h e i r d a i l y drinking habits I see a symbiotic relationship ”
APEHEX
