MariMed Launches Hemp-Derived THC Drink Mix
Cannabis consumer packaged goods company and retailer MariMed Inc. just launched a hemp-derived THC version of its Vibations hydrating drink mix brand in Rhode Island.
Distributing a hemp-derived version of Vibations not only gets the brand into an established retail channel, it also advances MariMed’s Expand the Brand strategy, which is focused on broadening distribution of the company’s core brands. According to BDSA and Lit Alerts, Vibations is a top 10 selling cannabis beverage brand in Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland and Delaware.
The hemp-derived THC version of Vibations is infused with 5mg of THC per stick, according to the company. Flavors available for the Rhode Island launch include Lemon Lime (Sugar Free), Half & Half, Strawberry Lemonade and Tropical Punch. Distribution will be provided through licensed Rhode Island liquor stores that are authorized to carry hemp THC beverages and products. There are currently more than 150 licensed and approved liquor stores in the state.
Expanding the Hemp-Derived THC Market
“The regulated hemp THC market is a strategic extension of our Expand the Brand initiative,” said Jon Levine, CEO of MariMed, in a news release. “It allows us to introduce our portfolio of leading brands into new channels with broad retail access. Our focus is on disciplined execution, working with experienced partners and building a scalable distribution framework that supports long-term growth.”
Mr. Levine also addressed the federal government’s recent legislation that, if implemented later this year, would ban hemp-derived THC products such as the new version of Vibations: “We believe such proposals conflict with the regulatory framework established in states like Rhode Island, which prioritize public health and consumer safety. We are confident that ultimately a sensible regulatory solution will be established that enables these existing, state-level programs to continue.”
Distribution of Vibations in Rhode Island is supported by Craft Collective Homegrown, according to the company, which will manage weekly ordering and delivery. MariMed has also entered a new partnership with Modern Infusions, the hemp THC beverage division of Theory Wellness, to manage sales execution and local marketing initiatives, including distributor management, account development, retail merchandising and short and long-term sales planning.
MariMed is also developing plans to expand distribution of Vibations into additional markets during the first half of 2026. Those plans will be contingent on the early performance of the Rhode Island launch and other regulatory considerations and would be implemented using a similarly disciplined and capital-efficient distribution model, according to the company.
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