EU verticals create new European MCOs: Multi-Country Operators
Sep. 11, 2024 by SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals
- New European MCOs: Multi-Country Operators
- European cannabis markets are heating up, and virtually every country is buzzing about regulatory change since Germany decriminalized cannabis and removed it from their narcotics list. Now, countries must decide whether to adopt strict or loose medical regulatory frameworks.
- European Multi-Country Operators, or MCOs, are becoming the dominant forces in medical cannabis markets around the globe.
- MSO versus MCO
- One can draw comparisons between multi-state operators in the United States and multi-country operators in the European Union, but there are significant differences between these medical cannabis distribution models.
- American Multi-State Operators
- The typical U.S. Multi-State Operator (MSO) is the best model for capturing and adjusting margins as prices compress over time.
- In the early days of regulated cannabis in the U.S., when prices were high, most independent growers, manufacturers, and even white-labelers were able to flourish. However, prices quickly compressed, and these companies didn’t remain profitable for long.
- To survive and flourish, cannabis companies vertically integrated by adding distribution and retail operations. Those that didn’t vertically integrate lived at the mercy of retailers and price compression. Today, only a few niche players still exist that are not vertically integrated.
- As time went on, more states legalized medical cannabis, and due to the state-by-state cannabis laws in the U.S., products cannot legally cross borders. Each new state required new vertically integrated cultivation, manufacturing, and retail operations, which marked the start of MSOs that own the entire vertical in many states.
- EU Multi-Country Operators
- EU Multi-Country Operators (MCOs) are also vertically integrated; they own their own cultivation and manufacturing facilities and make extra profits on the sales side. However, a major difference between MSOs and MCOs is that MCO cultivation and manufacturing facilities can export to any country that accepts cannabis products.
- EU MCOs can transport their product because medical cannabis is regulated like a medical product in the EU and carries the European Union Good Manufacturing Practices (EU-GMP) herbal pharmaceutical seal of quality. So long as an MCO’s manufacturer and cultivator are EU-GMP certified, MCOs can sell their products to pharmacies and distributors in any European country with regulated medical cannabis.
- With the MCO model, one infrastructure can service many countries, which is a massive positive of MCOs versus MSOs.
- Vertical sales and distribution
- It’s trickier for MCOs to achieve complete vertical integration to capture the final margin.
- MSOs own dispensaries because it is the easiest way to sell cannabis, even though it requires the MSOs to build and license specialty stores. In the EU, however, pharmacies sell products that MCOs produce, and delivering products to pharmacies requires either a pharmaceutical distributor or a specialized cannabis distributor. Though there are nearly 300,000 pharmacies in Europe — not to mention all those in non-European countries — there is little margin in pharmaceutical distribution or pharmacy sales.
- The cost of fully vertically integrating by building or acquiring special infrastructure far exceeds the cost of using existing infrastructure. Using pharmaceutical distributors, pharmacy sales networks, and existing pharmacies may only cost the company 10-15% of the margin.
- A significant challenge arises because cannabis is a narcotic in most countries and, therefore, not accepted enough to be a widespread pharmaceutical product. Accordingly, fewer distributors and pharmacies are willing to carry it.
- Cannabis entrepreneurs saw this hesitancy play out in countries like Germany that legalized medical cannabis relatively early. These entrepreneurs created specialized large distributors and pharmacies that only serviced the cannabis industry. Although this strategy primarily concerns flower products, these groups buy from independent growers and resell to specialized pharmacies.
- The uneven impact of specialized cannabis distribution organizations
- Specialized cannabis distributors take 50 to 100% profit, or more, on these transactions. Pharmacies then take almost 50-100% profit in addition to that wholesale price. To illustrate, the cultivator might sell cannabis flower to the distributor for 3 euros/gram. The distributor sells the product to pharmacies for 6 euros/gram, and the pharmacy sells it for 12 euros/gram. The cultivator is already at the bottom of the pyramid, so any price compression causes more stress to their business models than distributors or pharmacies.
- MCOs pursuing direct sales
- Seeing this margin issue and being unable to reach the broader networks with lower sales margins, vertically integrated MCOs developed sales teams that communicate with doctors, pharmacists and other sales avenues.
- These salespeople can reach out directly to pharmacies and drive prescriptions through doctors’ interactions with patients. Pharmacists are typically more knowledgeable about cannabis, especially when it comes to flower. However, the doctor is ultimately the one who writes the prescriptions for extracts.
- To be a vertically integrated medical cannabis company that offers both flower and extract products, MCOs need to engage doctors and educate pharmacists to capture the margin of cannabis distributors.
- Sales teams are very expensive, and not all cultivators can invest in going directly to the end buyer. With this framework, MCOs also need local inventory management staff, sales employees and managerial sales support teams for each country since they also need a local pharmaceutical distributor willing to work for lower-than-standard pharmaceutical margins. However, investing in sales teams allows MCOs to become as close to vertically integrated as they need to be.
- Medical cannabis clinics and direct sales
- Another avenue driving sales is the medical cannabis clinic. Specialized medical cannabis clinics are one of the fastest-growing ways for patients to get cannabis prescriptions, as they can advertise their services and provide a relatively simple avenue for access.
- However, the price a patient is willing to pay for a prescription has now hit 1 euro since clinics are fighting for patient acquisition. This is not surprising since, in the early days of medical cannabis legalization, the U.S. and Canada also saw prescription prices drop to zero. Doctors won’t work for free, so clinics must still pay in-network doctors between 50 and 100 euros for their time and consultations; having in-house doctors is very expensive.
- Cannabis clinic business models for maximum profitability
- So, how can clinics make money?
- As one option, they can forge deals with manufacturers and cultivators for bulk discounts of around 25%.
- Alternatively, they can own the manufacturing and cultivation, like Curaleaf, and bring in profit by selling products through a clinic. In this situation, the clinic becomes an extension of the sales team.
- Finally, some clinics may own their own pharmacy. This setup gives them the closest possible thing to true vertical integration, where they control the margin from seed to sale. When the clinic owns its own pharmacy, it can generate prescriptions and dispense them in the same location — or even by delivery.
- The future of European MCOs
- As more regulated cannabis markets emerge in the EU, MCOs will be required to conform to each country’s laws. They will also have to make country-by-country decisions on capturing the entire margin and determining which investments make sense for that country’s volume.
- Merger activity, new medical cannabis companies, and structures will emerge as MCOs lead. Europe’s MCOs are the new MSOs. Though not without drawbacks, capturing margin by vertically integrating with sales or clinics will continue as the trend in the future.
- The EU and global cannabis markets don’t have dispensaries, but they have existing massive pharmacy networks. Either way, spreading products around the globe and getting them into patients’ hands requires creativity.
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Cannabis Wealth Michael Sassano, CEO of Somai Pharmaceuticals reflects on Q3 2022.
December 05, 2022
Michael Sassano & Antonio Guedelha: GMP #15 – Quality Control Laboratory Optimization in GMP
Cannabis Law Report The management of a Pharmaceutical Quality Control Laboratory is a complex task that contributes to monitoring and...
December 02, 2022
Glassroots Marketing Podcast: Pharmaceutical Cannabis and The Influence From Big Pharma
Grassroots Marketing discusses Pharmaceutical Cannabis and The Influence From Big Pharma with Michael Sassano, CEO of Somai Pharmaceuticals. Michael is the CEO...
December 01, 2022
The Right Way to Start A European Cannabis Business
Benzinga As the cannabis wave envelopes Europe, so too are entrepreneurs rushing to capitalize on the next biggest market in...
November 30, 2022
International Cannabis Reform Ramps Up in Europe, South America
Green Market Report Many countries waiting to see how efforts unfold elsewhere. Global cannabis reform is gaining momentum. What started...
November 07, 2022
Michael Sassano & Antonio Guedelha: GMP #14 Client Management in GMP
Cannabis Law Report Pharmaceutical cannabis companies with industrial manufacturing facilities operate in a global market and can cater to a...
November 01, 2022
Green Peak Podcast: Somai Pharmaceuticals LTD With Michael Sassano
Michael Sassano is one of the original movers and shakers in the cannabis industry. He was an early investor in...
November 01, 2022
Somai Pharmaceuticals LTD With Michael Sassano – The Green Peak Podcast hosted by Richard Zwicky
Apple Podcasts Michael Sassano is one of the original movers and shakers in the cannabis industry. He was an early...
November 01, 2022
7 Ways to Increase Terpene Levels in Cannabis
Leaf Retailer Terpenes are yet another compound found in the cannabis plant that greatly impact how certain strains taste and...
October 28, 2022
Germany’s Move To Legalize Marijuana Will Spark A Wildfire In Europe, Says This Cannabis CEO
The Fresh Toast “Germany has long been the leader in medical cannabis reform and all the other countries in EU...
October 27, 2022
Germany’s Move to Legalize Marijuana Will Spark a Wildfire In Europe: Mike Sassano
My Cannabis According to Mike Sassano, CEO of Somai Pharmaceutical, this move is likely to spark a wildfire across Europe....
October 26, 2022
Germany recreational cannabis winners and losers
Cannabis Wealth Michael Sassano, CEO of SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA, shares his thoughts on recreational cannabis reform in Germany. Leaks...
October 20, 2022
42_Watch Out. Europe Is Gaining Ground Over The U.S. In Cannabis Medicine
Listen to Michael Sassano who is one of the most respected executives in the pharmaceutical cannabis space today. He was...
October 18, 2022
European Cannabis Q3 2022 Quarterly Update
Talk Markets The third quarter for European cannabis was painfully slow and uneventful. What started as an exciting, promising year...
October 12, 2022
Is It Really Hard To Start A Business When You’re Over 50?
Forbes You’d be amazed how many people want to be entrepreneurs. You’d be even more amazed to learn this enthusiasm...
October 12, 2022
Do Any States Face The Risk Of A Dominant Cannabis Market Operator?
Benzinga Is the American cannabis sector facing the prospect of just a few players dominating the market? While worries abound...
October 02, 2022
CBD Health Podcast Episode #47- Listen to Michael Sassano who’s the international cannabis industry leader
CBD Health Podcast with Dr. Thomas Rocco Listen to Michael Sassano who is one of the most respected executives in...
September 30, 2022
Let’s be Blunt with Montel – INTERNATIONAL CANNA | MICHAEL SASSANO
Let's be Blunt On this episode of Let’s be Blunt, Montel talks with Michael Sassano, CEO of Somai Pharmaceuticals, a...
September 30, 2022
Michael Sassano Exclusive Interview With TheCelebrity.Online
TheCelebrity.Online Michael Sassano is the founder, chairman and CEO of Somai Pharmaceuticals. Michael Sassano is also an invester and expert...
September 28, 2022
Cannabis Crossing Borders: Global Flower Trade in 2022
Ganjapreneur In less than a decade, the cannabis industry has gone from seeing a worldwide blanket prohibition of the plant...
September 26, 2022
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Opens Portugal Manufacturing Facility
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA has officially opened its new state-of-the-art pharmaceutical EU-GMP facility in Portugal.
September 22, 2022
The Mary Jane Society Podcast – Watch Out. Europe Is Gaining Ground Over The U.S. In Cannabis Medicine
Mary Jane Society Michael Sassano, CEO of Somai Pharmaceuticals, a European pharmaceutical, and biotech company centered on manufacturing in Lisbon,...
September 22, 2022
Schumer is still committed to cannabis banking reform
Business of Cannabis The House sponsor of the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act, Rep. Ed Perlmutter, says he...
September 21, 2022
Germany’s Adult Use Cannabis Laws Steeped In Optimism And Uncertainty At The Moment
Benzinga Impact of Possible German Cannabis Legalization If Germany legalizes adult use, a wave of benefits could come to the...
September 19, 2022
To Be Blunt: The Professional Cannabis Business Podcast – Episode 117: The Global Cannabis Market and Why Germany is Poised to Lead
To Be Blunt “If Germany goes recreational, everybody's going to follow them to some extent. If the leader says, look,...
September 13, 2022
The Investor Talk – with Michael Sassano, CEO and Chairman for SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals
Equity Match Episode 29: Watch the #TheInvestorTalk episode with Michael Sassano Michael Sassano, the Founder, Chairman & CEO of Somai...
September 12, 2022
Inside Europe’s largest cannabis manufacturing facility
Sifted Walking around Europe’s largest cannabis manufacturing facility, it quickly becomes obvious that I’m in the hands of a veteran....
September 08, 2022
Making the Best Concentrates For a Global Market
Maximum Yield Article by Anthony Demeo and Michael Sassano The global market is waking up to quality concentrates and extracts,...
September 05, 2022
Michael Sassano & Antonio Guedelha: GMP #13: Preventive Maintenance in GMP
Cannabis Law Journal Consistent and reliable pharmaceutical manufacturing depends on many factors, but a critical one is the process equipment....
August 31, 2022
Michael Sassano of Somai Pharmaceuticals on To Be Blunt – Episode 117 The Global Cannabis Market and Why Germany is Poised to Lead
Shayda Torabi - YouTube Michael Sassano of Somai Pharmaceuticals on To Be Blunt
August 29, 2022
Karma Koala Podcast Episode 92: Professor June McLaughlin, Kim Stuck Allay Consulting, Michael Sassano Somai Pharmaceuticals & Amy McDougal Clearsources
Spotify Heather Allman talks with Michael Sassano of SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals LTD about recent regulatory changes, the differences between Europe and...
August 27, 2022
Interview Time! Michael Sassano – CEO of Somai Pharmaceuticals
YouTube - Ask GenieNansea In this episode, SOMAÍ's CEO, Michael Sassano, explains how he got involved in the industry, talks...
August 22, 2022
With Extracts Expected To Achieve A ‘50% Share Of The EU Cannabis Market’ In The Next Few Years, Who Is Currently Leading The Field?
BusinessCann Michael Sassano, CEO of international cannabis manufacturer Somai Pharmaceuticals, explores the state of cannabis extract manufacturing in Europe and...
August 16, 2022
The Case for THCA and Other Minor Cannabinoids
Cannabis Science and Technology In this article, Somai's R&D Director, Anthony DeMeo, examines why we should be studying cannabinoids beyond...
August 03, 2022
Consider Cannabis – Cannabis and International Markets
Consider Cannabis
August 02, 2022
Michael Sassano & Antonio Guedelha: GMP #12: Optimizing Pharmaceutical Good Manufacturing Processes
Cannabis Law Report Manufacturing process optimization aims to increase productivity, decrease operational costs, and make the manufacturing process more robust...
August 02, 2022
SOMAÍ PHARMACEUTICALS – MEDICAL CANNABIS PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING FACILITY
Anteprojectos Como primeiro investimento da SOMAÍ em Portugal, foi apresentado um edifício com licença de armazém, com a pretensão de...
July 28, 2022
Here Weed Go – It’s Pharmaceutical (in Europe)
Omny Studio Today’s episode has a decidedly European flavor: my guest is Michael Sassano, the Founder, Chairman and CEO of...
July 26, 2022
The Israeli Cannabis Market Is Growing Faster than People Realize
Technical420 I recently had a chance to visit Israel and learn about the Israeli cannabis market from the best growers...
July 26, 2022
European Cannabis Regulators Ease Restrictions in Preparation of EU Green Wave
Cannabis Business Times Changing laws and regulations in countries such as Germany, Switzerland and Spain indicate increased cannabis access for...
July 22, 2022
Vertical Integration: Cannabis Experts Discuss Its Various Pros And Cons
Benzinga Vertical integration in the cannabis industry is one of the most debated topics of the day across the sector....
July 20, 2022
ICBC Berlin 2022 B2B Conference Panels Day 2 | Cannabis In Biotechnology
YouTube - International Cannabis Business Conference Are cannabinoids and other cannabis active ingredients a building block for the biotechnology of...
July 18, 2022
Disposable Vapes Are An Environmental Concern But Producers Won’t Stop Making ’til You Stop Buying
Benzinga Annual cannabis vape sales continue to grow across many major markets–fueling demand and a growing eco-footprint. Rising consumer demand...
July 13, 2022
European Cannabis Q2 2022 Quarterly Update
The second quarter in Europe far outpaced the first quarter in market movements regarding legislative country news and Merger &...
June 24, 2022
SAFE Banking Act Dropped From China Competition Bill
High Times A bill to allow financial services to businesses in the legal cannabis industry was dropped from a China...
June 23, 2022
Switzerland Removes Medical Marijuana Access Limitations As Demand Rises
Benzinga The Swiss government confirmed that it will remove limitations on medical marijuana use, starting August 1st, 2022. Medical marijuana...
June 22, 2022
Switzerland set to lift medical cannabis restrictions
Leafie The Swiss government announced today that it will lift restrictions on cannabis for medical use from August 1st 2022....
June 16, 2022
Cannabis Insiders Split On Market Impact Of Inflation
Benzinga In the days leading up to the recent bear market entry, cannabis insiders provided Benzinga with varied opinions regarding...
June 08, 2022
Thailand removes cannabis from narcotics list, decriminalises growing plants at home
ABC NEWS Thailand has become the first country in Asia to take marijuana off its list of banned substances and...
June 03, 2022
Germany’s legalisation push has lit up the European cannabis market
Cannabis Wealth Mike Sassano, CEO of European cannabis manufacturer Somai Pharmaceuticals, offers his perspective on Germany’s accelerated plans for adult-use...
June 01, 2022
Michael Sassano & Antonio Guedelha: GMP #11: Stock Management in GMP Manufacturing
Cannabis Law Report In Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facilities, managing your stock is critical for Quality Assurance (QA). Your QA...
June 01, 2022
The Cannabis Corner Episode 44 – Michael Sassano, CEO and Chairman for Somai Pharmaceuticals
Cannabis Corner Podcast This week Michael Sassano of Somai Pharmaceuticals , a Lisbon, Portugal based cannabis pharmaceutical manufacturer , joins...
May 17, 2022
Sequire Cannabis & Psychedelic Conference 2022 – Somai Pharmaceuticals
YouTube - Somai Pharmaceuticals Sequire Cannabis & Psychedelic Conference went live on April 20th with industry experts and investor 1:1s....
May 12, 2022
CannaList Conversations with Michael Sassano, CEO and Chairman for Somai Pharmaceuticals
CannaList Conversations We recently sat down with Michael Sassono - he is one of the most respected executives in the...
May 10, 2022
“Positive shock waves”: Germany accelerates process for cannabis legalisation
Cannabis Wealth Germany’s health minister Karl Lauterbach – who until last year was opposed to cannabis legalisation – said Germany’s...
May 09, 2022
CPhI North America 2022: Pharmaceutical Cannabis Global Marketplace
YouTube - Somai Pharmaceuticals Michael Sassano, CEO and Chairman, Somai Pharmaceuticals presented on Monday the 9th of May 2022 at...
May 03, 2022
Michael Sassano & Antonio Guedelha: GMP Article 10: Production Cost Calculation Systems in GMP
Cannabis Law Journal When you look to the future of your company’s life cycle, financial health in planning your exact...
April 28, 2022
MGC Pharma, Cansativa Group & Somai Pharmaceuticals announced among Cannabis Europa sponsors
Pressat As cannabis makes its way into the mainstream across Europe, the continent's premium B2B cannabis industry conference - Cannabis...
April 28, 2022
European Cannabis Q1 2022 Quarterly Update
Talk Markets 2022 started with an incredible amount of progress and hope with European cannabis fast becoming a hot emerging...
April 05, 2022
How to Invest in Marijuana
U.S. News Both strides and setbacks have punctuated the quest for federal legalization of cannabis in the U.S. So far,...
April 02, 2022
Michael Sassano: GMP Article No 9: Bringing New Products to GMP Facility
Cannabis Law Journal Now that your GMP facility has been opened, it’s time to add some new products to your...
March 31, 2022
The European Cannabis Report: 7th Edition | Expert Opinions: Michael Sassano (page 34)
Prohibition Partners What is SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals? SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Ltd is a European pharmaceutical and biotech company with a manufacturing centre...
March 30, 2022
3 Reasons Cannabis Sin Stocks Stay Strong in Volatile Markets
Technical 420 As global stress and market uncertainties remain high during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, investors looking for stability...
March 30, 2022
Inflation: is it affecting the cannabis market?
Cannabis Wealth Inflation is at a record high, but cannabis prices are continuing to fall. Could cannabis be inflation-proof or...
March 24, 2022
The case for improving absorption for cannabinoids using ethosomes
Drug Target Review Michael Sassano and Anthony DeMeo from Somai Pharmaceuticals discuss using ethosomes as an improved method to deliver...
March 21, 2022
Opinion: 2022 could be the year for pharmaceutical marijuana
MJBizDaily Last year proved to be an interesting one for the entire cannabis industry. In particular, the emergence of large...
March 16, 2022
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals + Huge Gage Cannabis News!
Benzinga Benzinga Cannabis Insider is a bi-weekly podcast focused on marijuana and all things weed, CBD, hemp, and psychedelics. Hosts...
March 07, 2022
Karma Koala Podcast Episode 67: This Week Michael Sassano, Inesa Ponomariovaite & Our Regular Segment From Dentons German Cannabis Head, Peter Homberg
Spotify INTERVIEW 2: Michael Sassano, who has been writing regular articles for cannabis law jnl on all things international compliance...
February 16, 2022
Innovations in Dosing Technologies: Getting an Accurate Hit, Every Time
Cannabis Industry Journal The cannabis industry has a wealth of creative talent. With the market beginning to tear away from...
February 10, 2022
Safety and Culture at Forefront of Cannabis Social Club vs. Dispensary Debate
Cannabis Business Times As the legalization of adult-use cannabis sweeps Europe, stakeholders and emerging investors on both sides of the...
February 08, 2022
Synthetic Cannabinoids versus Plant-Derived Products
Terpenes and Testing Magazine Crafting synthetic, semi-synthetic, and isomerization of cannabinoids is old hat for chemists. Natural cannabinoids are derived...
January 27, 2022
Spotlight Interview with Michael Sassano, CEO and Chairman of the Board for Somai Pharmaceuticals
Pharmashots On February 01, 2022, PharmaShots will present the second interview in its new interview section, “Spotlight- Company of the...
January 23, 2022
How Germany Can Enter The Adult-Use Cannabis Market Successfully
The Fresh Toast Germany Recreational Cannabis is Close. The new German coalition has indicated one of its many priorities is...
January 21, 2022
How Germany Can Enter The Adult-Use Cannabis Market Successfully
Benzinga Germany Recreational Cannabis is Close. The new German coalition has indicated one of its many priorities is the legalization...
January 20, 2022
Portugal Is Highly Likely To Legalize Recreational Cannabis
Benzinga Portugal has long been ahead of other European countries in its understanding and stance on drug reform, so it...
December 30, 2021
Michael Sassano – Somai Pharmaceuticals – Conforming to the Highest Pharmaceutical Standards
Valiant CEO Michael Sassano is well known as one of the original investors in the cannabis industry. He is celebrated...
December 28, 2021
Uber Eats to Offer “Baked Goods” with Canadian Cannabis Partnership
Marketscale “Every move that standardizes cannabis into the distribution and sales is a step to combatting the black market. Not...
December 24, 2021
Croptober – Navigating the Business of Cannabis Cultivation and Sustainability – Michael Sassano
YouTube - Somai Pharmaceuticals On Thursday, October 28 Excelsior College hosted a cannabis webinar, Croptober: Navigating the Business of Cannabis...
December 24, 2021
Cannabis Europa London 2021 – Michael Sassano
YouTube - Somai Pharmaceuticals At the Iconic Banking Hall in London, on 11 November Cannabis Europa returned - bringing together...
December 23, 2021
Which Countries Will Likely Legalize Cannabis In 2022 And Why Isn’t The US Among Them?
Benzinga Cannabis reform is heating up across the nation. With it comes a booming multinational market, including a projected $102...
December 19, 2021
Michael Sassano, Renowned Pharmaceutical Expert, and Founder and CEO of Somai Pharmaceuticals LTD Zoom Interviewed
EIN Presswire Michael Sassano, Renowned Pharmaceutical Expert, Founder & CEO of Somai Pharmaceuticals LTD Zoom Interviewed for The DotCom Magazine
December 17, 2021
DotCom Magazine Interview of Michael Sassano, CEO & Founder of Somai Pharmaceuticals LTD
YouTube - Somai Pharmaceuticals Michael Sassano is well known as one of the original investors in the cannabis industry. He...
December 14, 2021
How SOMAÍ is Bringing ‘Peak Efficiency’ and ‘Peak Profitability’ to the European Cannabis Market
Cannabis Europa Michael Sassano has been involved in everything from real estate to banking and cutting-edge tech investment. But he...
December 13, 2021
Cannabis Investment: 7 Best Marijuana Stocks to Buy for 2022
WTOP (Washington DC News) These seven marijuana stocks are on sale. Investors had high hopes for the legal marijuana industry...
December 01, 2021
Michael Sassano: GMP Series #8: Manufacturing Startup
Cannabis Law Journal Your journey maneuvering through the start-up phase of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) will finish with certification of...
November 23, 2021
Few Medical Cannabis Licenses in Portugal Have Been Awarded
High times Infarmed approves only 19 of the 114 applications for medical cannabis cultivation in Portugal. Ever since Tilray decamped...
November 22, 2021
Cannabis Co. Receives $3M ‘Innovative Products’ Grant From Government, EU In Portugal
Benzinga SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA, or SOMAÍ, recently received an “innovative products” grant of 2.7 million euros ($3.07 million). Provided...
November 16, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals awarded €2.7M in funding from Portugal 2020 Grant
BusinessCann SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA has received an innovative products grant of 2.7 million euros by the Portugal 2020 committee....
November 14, 2021
Projeto Nº POCI-02-0853-FEDER-179647
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA has officially opened its new state-of-the-art pharmaceutical EU-GMP facility in Portugal.
November 11, 2021
EU: Cannabis company receives €2.7 million grant
MMJ Daily Somaí Pharmaceuticals has received a €2.7 million grant from the Portugal 2020 committee.
November 11, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Erhält Im Rahmen Von Portugal 2020 Fördermittel In Höhe Von 2,7 Mio. Euro
TechiLive LISSABON, Portugal, Nov. 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA hat vom Portugal 2020-Komitee Fördermittel für innovative...
November 11, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals bénéficie d’un financement de 2,7 millions d’euros de Portugal 2020
News Bit LISBONNE, Portugal, 10 nov. 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA a reçu une subvention pour produits...
November 11, 2021
Somai Pharmaceuticals: SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals erhält im Rahmen von Portugal 2020 Fördermittel in Höhe von 2,7 Mio. Euro
Finanz Nachrichten LISSABON, Portugal, Nov. 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA hat vom Portugal 2020-Komitee Fördermittel für...
November 10, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals awarded €2.7M in funding from Portugal 2020 Grant
Yahoo Finance LISBON, Portugal, Nov. 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA has received an innovative products grant...
November 10, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals awarded €2.7M in funding from Portugal 2020 Grant
AP News LISBON, Portugal, Nov. 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA has received an innovative products grant...
November 10, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals awarded €2.7M in funding from Portugal 2020 Grant
Opera News LISBON, Portugal, Nov. 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA has received an innovative products grant...
November 10, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals awarded €2.7M in funding from Portugal 2020 Grant
Profiles in Legalization LISBON, Portugal — SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA has received an innovative products grant of 2.7 million euros...
November 10, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals bénéficie d’un financement de 2,7 millions d’euros de Portugal 2020
La Bourse Et La Vie LISBONNE, Portugal, 10 nov. 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Unipessoal LDA a reçu une...
November 07, 2021
Somai: The Global Story of Cannabis
Startup Thread I recently spoke with Michael Sassano, founder of SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals, an international company focused on the extraction of...
November 05, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals at MJUnpacked: What Are You Trying To Accomplish At MJ Unpacked?
CFN Media Group
November 05, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals at MJUnpacked: What Markets And Geography Does Somai Pharma Address?
CFN Media Group
November 05, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals at MJUnpacked: What Should Consumers, Other Brands And Investors Know About The Future Of Somai Pharma
CFN Media Group
November 05, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals at MJUnpacked: Tell Us About Your Company And What Makes You Different
CFN Media Group
October 27, 2021
These Are The Cannabis Industry’s Biggest Tricks and Treats So Far
Benzinga Halloween is almost here. As costumed revelers prepare for a weekend of celebrations, the cannabis industry readies for the...
October 05, 2021
Michael Sassano: GMP Series #7: Personnel Recruitment
Cannabis Law Journal No matter what you build or which equipment you purchase, your business cannot be successful without hiring...
September 07, 2021
Michael Sassano: GMP Series Part 6 – Quality Assurance Implementation
Cannabis Law Journal The difference between Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) is not always clear. Quality Control refers...
August 26, 2021
Why Germany is Not the Future Leader of European Cannabis
Technical420 For the last several years, all I have heard about from EU cannabis producers, growers and investors is “GERMANY,...
August 04, 2021
Michael Sassano CEO and Chairman Somai Pharmaceuticals: GMP Series #5: ERP Implementations
Cannabis Law Report When tackling your computer systems, software, and quality control processes, keep in mind that there are many...
August 03, 2021
The Advantages of Ethanol Extraction
Extraction Magazine Extraction technology is constantly evolving each year, which helps drive down associated costs, increase output volumes, and improve...
July 29, 2021
Does Big Business Provide A Better Look Into Cannabis Reform Than Capitol Hill?
Business Insider Operators in various sectors of cannabis feel that the industry provides a better insight into regulatory needs and...
July 29, 2021
Does Big Business Provide A Better Look Into Cannabis Reform Than Capitol Hill?
The Fresh Toast Operators in various sectors of cannabis feel that the industry provides a better insight into regulatory needs...
July 29, 2021
Does Big Business Provide A Better Look Into Cannabis Reform Than Capitol Hill? Operators Believe So.
Benzinga Cannabis operators and executives tell Benzinga that the movement of private and public companies may serve as a better...
July 29, 2021
Cannabis Stocks Next Big Wave Is Coming Late August
Benzinga Multi-State Operators (MSOs) in the United States are primed for the next big stock amp-up, which could see at...
June 21, 2021
Michael Sassano and Antonio Guedelha: GMP Series Part 4: Laboratory Set-Up
Cannabis Law Report The laboratory is both one of the most active and one of the most critical rooms in...
June 14, 2021
GMP Series Part 3: Process Equipment Procurement
Cannabis Law Report In the next installment of the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Series, we will be exploring process equipment...
June 14, 2021
Could Drug Store Giants Eventually Sell THC? It’s Possible, But Many Hurdles Remain
Benzinga Drug store giants are already establishing themselves in the CBD market. Major players, including Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc
April 28, 2021
European Cannabis is Starting to Look Like the US Market 10 Years Ago
Cannabis Industry Journal As the cannabis industry — now estimated to be worth more than USD 200 billion — continues...
April 21, 2021
CANNA WORLD EXPO EUROPEAN UPDATE SOMAI PHARMACEUTICALS CEO MICHAEL SASSANO
Canna World Expo Empowerment 2021 CANNA WORLD EXPO is honored to have Somai Pharmaceuticals CEO, Michael Sassano, as an Empowerment...
April 06, 2021
Expert Interview: Michael Sassano, CEO Somai Pharmaceuticals
Prohibition Partners Who are SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals? SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals is an international company focused on creating unique cannabis formulations for the...
April 01, 2021
Beyond CBD, THC: ‘Minor’ Cannabinoids Flood Market — Lack of data is concerning, even for practitioners who believe in medical cannabis
MedPage Today On the heels of the cannabidiol (CBD) craze come three other cannabinoids touted as potential treatments for various...
April 01, 2021
Why GMP is the Future of Quality Control for the Global Industry
Cannabis Business Executive Good Manufacturing Practices, or GMP, are a systematic way of ensuring that products — from food to...
March 26, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Bringing The Future Of European Cannabis Market
Benzinga When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world by surprise last year, cannabis businesses around the world faced the uncertainty...
March 26, 2021
SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Bringing The Future Of European Cannabis Market
Yahoo Finance When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world by surprise last year, cannabis businesses around the world faced the...
March 25, 2021
Morocco: Cannabis Legislation but the Devil in the Details
Fanack Morocco approved in March 2021 a law that will see a legal cannabis industry emerge in one of the...
March 22, 2021
Low-Cost Pot Stocks To Consider, According To SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals CEO Mike Sassano
Benzinga SOMAÍ Pharmaceuticals Ltd. co-founder and CEO Michael Sassano recently spoke to Benzinga about a particular value buy that's piqued...
March 22, 2021
Cannabis Revival and Year of the SPAC’s: What’s To Be Expected the Rest of 2021?
Cannabis Industry Journal The unusual nature of 2020 gave rise to a reciprocally roller-coaster-like cannabis market. Cannabis was cemented officially...
March 22, 2021
SPAC Mania: The Biggest Cannabis Boom Is Yet To Come
Cannabis Business Executive If you’re reading this you undoubtedly know that special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs) are all the rage....
March 18, 2021
GMP Series Part 2: Building and Design – Authored By: Michael Sassano and Antonio Guedelha
Cannabis Law Report In the quest to become GMP compliant, design and flow of your manufacturing facility are critical. Mistakes...
February 26, 2021
Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference | February 25-26, 2021 | Michael Sassano
Benzinga Capital Conference Michael Sassano, CEO of Somai Pharmaceuticals talk about the European Cannabis Market and how it is starting...
February 25, 2021
Navigating Regulatory Hurdles in Specific Countries
Cannabis Business Executive Despite Europe’s unification, each country is still making their own rules on providing access to medical cannabis...
February 24, 2021
Cannabiz: How to Invest in This Growing Industry
Ticker Tape Early February marked a big step for the cannabis industry with the announcement that Jazz Pharmaceuticals (JAZZ) will...
February 09, 2021
GMP & Compliance: GMP SERIES #1: “Starting Your GMP Approval Process for Cannabis Correctly”
Cannabis Law Report The path to facility and product approval in cannabis is a long road that requires attention to...
February 03, 2021
PREDICTIONS | Want to know the future? There are two ways: a crystal ball or really smart people (pages 74-75)
B2B Wholesaler Magazine Mike Sassano, CEO and Chairman of Somai Pharmaceutical: “2021 is shaping up to be the most explosive...
February 01, 2021
Ingenious Cannabis Entrepreneurs to watch in 2021
IdeaMensch There is way more to cannabis than getting “high.” The United States alone has grossed a total between $71.4B-$87.5B...
January 06, 2021
These Are The Top European Cannabis Companies
CBDevious The legality of cannabis for medical and recreational use varies by country, in terms of its possession, distribution, and...
December 28, 2020
9 Things to Consider When Raising Capital for Startups in Europe
Cannabis Business Executive Since my first job on Wall Street at Lehman Brothers, I was taught to raise money. And...
December 02, 2020
Tantalizing Terpenes Boost Cannabinoid Blends For The European Market (pages 20-21)
CBD Health & Wellness Magazine The recent election in the US brought sweeping changes to the cannabis industry in just...
December 01, 2020
UK to see largest medical cannabis market growth in Europe 2020 to 2025
Yahoo Finance UK Britain is set to see the greatest cannabis medical market growth rate in Europe between 2020-2025. According...
November 24, 2020
Desert Oasis | Solaris Farms is capitalizing on a prime location and plenty of Nevada sunshine (page 58-61 November issue)
MARIJUANA VENTURE MAGAZINE: Michael Sassano took everything he learned from developing real estate and put it into growing plants in...
November 09, 2020
‘The sweet spot for cannabis business opportunities is somewhere between medical and recreational’ – experts explain how to find it
Business Insider Mike Sassano, the founder of Nevada cultivation brand Solaris Farms, explained that many customers consume marijuana for medical...
October 22, 2020
Cannabis Top 20: North America’s Largest Commercial Grows
Greenhouse grower As the cannabis industry continues its evolution, North America-based growing operations are scaling up across multiple states, and...
August 03, 2020
Real Deals – Michael Sassano
Marijuana Business Magazine Now that the economic situation doesn't support unbridled growth in the industry, more cannabis companies might consider...
July 10, 2020
Best practices for securing your cannabis grow operations and supply chains
Security Infowatch The cannabis industry comes with its own set of inherent security risks, especially in vertically integrated grow operations....
June 18, 2020
Cannabis Terpenes: What Growers Need to Know
Greenhouse grower: “There’s no witchcraft to it or anything like that. It’s just kind of the whole combination of light...
June 17, 2020
Opening the Pot: Vegas Cannabis Industry Moving Ahead Amidst COVID
Millennial Magazine Vegas relies on the more than 42 million tourists to maintain its economy, so when COVID-19 (COVID) hit...
May 20, 2020
California joins push to let cannabis businesses use banks as part of coronavirus relief
The Orange County Register: California Attorney General Xavier Becerra is joining a bipartisan group of 34 attorneys general in urging...
May 01, 2020
Cannabis company executives speak to the industry’s trying times
Real Assets Adviser "The United States and worldwide trend of legal sales will only improve, since we are far from...
April 21, 2020
Why Large-scale cannabis producers are turning to Hybrid Greenhouses
Joomag "The environment can be controlled in both indoor and hybrid greenhouses in almost the exact same way, but it...
April 20, 2020
Lawmakers Look to Include Cannabis Banking Reform in Next COVID-19 Stimulus Bill
Cannabis Business Times “There is no positive in having cash outside of the banking industry for the safety of our...
April 19, 2020
COVID-19 Is Leaving Its Mark On The Cannabis Industry, Insiders Say
Huffpost Michael Sassano of Solaris Farms, a large-scale industrial hybrid greenhouse cultivator in Las Vegas says while CBD might work...
April 16, 2020
Why Cannabis Will Boom During the “New Normal”
Nisonco "In the future, the entire cannabis industry will benefit from not only it’s essential medicine title, but also hundreds...
April 10, 2020
Cannabis Do-Gooders: These Companies Are Lending A Helping Hand Against COVID-19
Benzinga “Creating a safe environment while cannabis is deemed 'essential' added tremendous positive energy for our team, while at the...
April 10, 2020
Cannabis Do-Gooders: These Companies Are Lending A Helping Hand Against COVID-19
Yahoo finance "Recently, in-order to give back to the community and create outward good will, Solaris Farms reduced pricing to...
March 27, 2020
Hemp Companies Step Up To Help During Pandemic
Hemp Market Report “Although our first priority is to the safety of our employees and doing our part to slow...
March 18, 2020
Cannabis Pros Sound Off On How Coronavirus Pandemic Will Affect Industry
Forbes Michael Sassano, founder and CEO of Solaris Farms, a Las Vegas-based greenhouse for growing cannabis, is filtering the turmoil...
March 17, 2020
CannaBusiness Tips For Coronavirus Times
Benzinga "Don’t panic, but it’s time to look at a slow down in all businesses, including cannabis sales. Recently, I...
March 12, 2020
Cannabis Executives on Turbulent Markets: “Don’t Panic”
Equities “I’m a believer in letting the flood gates open. But I see things from a well established position. The...
February 27, 2020
Michael Sassano: the man bringing US cannabis know-how to Europe
Cleanroom Technology The focus of the marketplace is on CBD, Sassano admits, noting regulation is developing. "Places like Switzerland have...
February 27, 2020
Michael Sassano: the man bringing US cannabis know-how to Europe
NBR A US native, Sassano believes a more liberal approach to the use of cannabis will take some time for...
February 27, 2020
Michael Sassano: the man bringing US cannabis know-how to Europe
Manufacturing Chemist "This declassification is more symbolic than ground-breaking," tells me Michael Sassano, Founder and CEO of Solaris Farms, a...
February 13, 2020
New Cannabis Products: Kiva’s Camino CBN Line, Solaris x Cannabis & Culture’s Line And A Topical Cream
Yahoo finance "With over $100,000 in sales the first week of launch, it’s clear that Culture and Cannabis’s reach means...
February 13, 2020
New Cannabis Products: Kiva’s Camino CBN Line, Solaris x Cannabis & Culture’s Line And A Topical Cream
Benzinga Michael Sassano, CEO of Solaris, told Benzinga, "The merger of the Culture and Cannabis media group with Solaris Farms...
January 29, 2020
European Union Urges Member Nations to Vote for World Health Organization’s Cannabis Rescheduling Recommendations
Cannabis Business Times “The 1961 Narcotics Act of Europe is similar to [the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA)] Schedule I in...
January 28, 2020
“Marijuana is a global trend that can no longer be stopped.”
Incrussia The largest marijuana market in Europe is now Germany ($100 million). The American market is estimated at about $10...
January 21, 2020
Which European Countries Cannabis Investors Should Watch in the New Decade
Equities Europe is at the crawling stage of cannabis development and starting their first awkward steps with medical acceptance. -...
January 20, 2020
Solaris Farms & Tech-Driven Growing
Culture & Cannabis The cultivation is relatively new, springing up in the summer of 2016. Despite its age, Solaris Farms...
January 10, 2020
‘Big Cannabis’ Technologically Ahead Of Its Times, But Post-Harvest Automation Remains Elusive
Forbes “The tech is getting closer but we’re not there yet,” said Michael Sassano, CEO, Solaris Farms, a cannabis cultivator...
January 06, 2020
U.S. leads in cannabis innovation, but cedes global market to Canada
The Denver Post The genetics and sophistication underlying the U.S. cannabis industry lead to better-quality and higher-potency flowers for those...
January 05, 2020
American pot is the gold standard. But Canada leads the export game — for now
Salon The genetics and sophistication underlying the U.S. cannabis industry lead to better-quality and higher-potency flowers for those who smoke...
January 03, 2020
American pot is the gold standard. But Canada leads the export game — for now
Kaiser Health “The world wants that technology,” said Michael Sassano, CEO of Solaris Farms, the largest cannabis hybrid greenhouse in...
January 01, 2020
From Seed to Sale Nevada’s Cash Crop Cannabis Industry
Nevada Business Initially, no one thought growing cannabis in the Southern Nevada desert would take. But Solaris Farms is growing...
December 27, 2019
America’s marijuana growers are the best in the world, but federal laws are keeping them out of global markets
Washington Post Federal prohibitions are getting in the way of efforts to grow the U.S. marijuana business into a global...
December 26, 2019
What Should Investors Take Away From MJBizCon 2019?
Equities Marijuana Business Daily’s annual MJBizCon is the largest conference and convention in the global legal cannabis industry. This year's...
November 19, 2019
How to Do Cannabis Cultivation Business Planning for Growth
B-Plans Developing a cannabis cultivation business requires significant planning, dedication, and focus. Initially, you’ll need to develop a solid plan...
November 14, 2019
“5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Started Leading a Cannabis Business”, with Michael Sassano and Len Giancola
Medium The cannabis business is a complete dedication and you must make large sacrifices for it. It is very fast...
November 11, 2019
Key trends when investing in the Cannabis industry in Opportunity Zones
Opportunity Zone Cannabis land development is growing and gaining traction in Opportunity Zones (OZ). Not only has a large amount...
November 03, 2019
Vegas Hybrid GreenHouse Dominance by Mike Sassano – page 20
Vegas Cannabis magazine
October 20, 2019
The Cannabis Cultivation Costs by State
MG Retail Magazine To the outside world, the legal cannabis industry appears to be one big cash machine. While it’s...
October 18, 2019
Mike Sassano: Increasing Potency with Greenhouse Technology
Ganjapreneur Michael Sassano is the CEO and founder of Solaris Farms, one of three large greenhouse cannabis cultivators in Nevada....
October 15, 2019
OZ WRITERS COUNCIL DIRECTORY
OZ WRITERS COUNCIL DIRECTORY The Council is an invitation-only group of executives and professionals with experience in the Opportunity Zone...
October 04, 2019
Are cannabis hand-trimmers an endangered species?
Leafly Many people in the cannabis industry start out as trimmers. Wearing “sticky gloves” is a way to learn the...
September 19, 2019
Automation and sensors in hybrid greenhouses
AgTechTomorrow Solaris is a high tech hybrid greenhouse designed specifically for desert environments. It was the first ground up hybrid...
September 18, 2019
Desert Greenhouse Cultivation
Blunt Business Desert greenhouse cultivation with Michael Sassano Founder and CEO of Solaris Farms. Michael says they have the largest...
September 12, 2019
Five Diverse Questions With Michael Sassano, Founder: Solaris Farms
Forbes I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio before attending Boston University. I graduated Cum Laude with Distinction in...
August 20, 2019
Automation is the Future of Cannabis
Equities As industries evolve, the companies within them consistently work to implement new methods that update their processes so they...
August 12, 2019
How Solaris Farms’ Michael Sassano Works: Cannabis Workspace
Cannabis Business Times In this installment, CBT presents an up-close look at the tools and habits behind the Nevada-based cultivator’s...
August 08, 2019
Federal Court Orders DEA to Explain Inaction on Cannabis Cultivation Applications
Analytical Cannabis Michael Sassano, founder and CEO of the Nevada-based cannabis cultivation operation Solaris Farms, told the Cannabis Business Times,...
August 06, 2019
Federal Court Orders DEA to Explain Why It Has Ignored Cannabis Cultivation Applications
Cannabis Business Times A federal court has ordered the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to explain why it has not responded...
July 18, 2019
Soma Pharmaceuticals Reveals Plans for Ireland’s Medical Cannabis Market
Cannabis Business Times As cannabis policy reform continues to sweep the globe, Ireland has launched a medical cannabis pilot program,...
June 27, 2019
What Technology Will Most Impact The Cannabis Industry? 24 Experts Share Their Insights
Disruptor Daily Cannabis legalization is gaining serious steam, and the industry is coming to a crossroads as nationwide demand for...
June 24, 2019
Solaris Farms Tackles Desert Heat with Global Tech
CannabisTech When Michael Sassano founded Solaris Farms in the Las Vegas area in 2016, his goals were ambitious - create...
June 24, 2019
What Trends Are Shaping The Cannabis Industry In 2019? 25 Experts Weigh In
Disruptor Daily Considering the topic of this article, you'd be forgiven for wondering whether it's 4/20 yet. It's not, but...
June 21, 2019
What’s The Future Of The Cannabis Industry? 28 Experts Share Their Perspectives
Disruptor Daily Bob Dylan once said that the times are a-changin', and no industry echoes that message like the cannabis...
June 03, 2019
CANNABIS INTERVIEW – MICHAEL SASSANO – FOUNDER SOLARIS FARMS
Cannabis Magazine Want to know more about one of the world’s largest greenhouses for growing cannabis? We sat down with...
April 27, 2019
Mike Sassano – A Cannabis Business in the Opportunity Zone
BuzzSprouts Mike Sassano's eclectic career has taken him from Cleveland to Wall Street, to Monaco and now Las Vegas. As...
May 17, 2016
Define “Organic”: The Cannabis Movement Is Stuck On Labeling
Dope Magazine Michael Sassano of Nevada’s Green Cross of America said all cannabis grown in the state is done without...