MJBizCon 2023 Major Takeaways

The 2023 MJBizCon marked a new level of maturity and a healthy degree of optimism. With Emerald running the show for the first time since acquiring the brand, this year's event provided ample networking opportunities and food for thought. It also saw a significant presence from major players outside of the cannabis space. As one of the top, if not the top, names in cannabis gatherings, MJBizCon is often considered a can't-miss event–and after last week, we'd have to agree. 

Different Sectors at Different Spaces

Hundreds of brands were on display as over 1,400 MJBizCon exhibitors packed the floor with booths showcasing their brands and services. The range of brands showcased highlighted the market's vast product and service diversity. Of the various sectors, the expo floor at MJBizCon 2023 predominantly showcased a range of manufacturing, packaging and labeling brands. 

Afterparties offered access to other sectors, notably brands and dispensaries. Major props to the Grasslands team, who put on an excellent party featuring a guest list of stellar industry names. The post-expo events weren't limited to parties either. The Emjays was an international showcase of the top businesses and industry leaders for their work. The black-tie awards ceremony was a refreshing twist. While we certainly love going casual, dressing to the nines to talk all things 420 was an experience we could get used to from time to time. 

By mixing it up on the expo floor and the afterparties, we met tons of excellent new connections in the cannabis space. We found the most beneficial connections at the afterparties. Consider prioritizing one or the other depending on who you're looking to connect with. 

Major Brands on Display

The 12th annual MJBizCon featured prominent names as sponsors and exhibitors. The list of notable names seems to grow yearly, and 2023 was no different. Brands, marketing firms, advocacy groups, and many others collaborated to put the show on, going off without a hitch. The sheer number of significant cannabis brands is always a sight to see. Talking to many of the brands revealed that their clientele isn't limited to weed. Sectors like packaging show that some names set themselves apart from the pack by working with cannabis and major brands like Pepsi and Coca-Cola. 

There is no doubt that cannabis is its own unique sector. But seeing the rise of brands able to work in weed like any other legal space is a sign of market maturity. We still have a ways to go before the plant is treated like any other federally regulated product. But the walls are dropping. Major names are open, if not enthused, to work with brands and experts with the skillset to service the cannabis sector. 

Close

Attending MJBizCon allowed us to see the market evolving in real-time. Notable names are emerging, while others are crossing over to show the mainstream what working in weed is like. The parties were still fun but quelled a bit by business. In a way, the expo marked a new period in the legal market's maturation. The industry is becoming broader and more welcoming, just as any billion-dollar industry should.