As the official publication of MJ Unpacked, we’re pleased to report that our flagship event is returning to the New York Hilton Midtown with a fresh new look through a partnership with ABC Brand / Design.
Last time we were in New York, the excitement over the impending rollout of adult-use was palpable, so we’re interested to return to the city nearly a year later and see how things are playing out. MJ Unpacked NYC 2023 will take place on April 26-28.
“I have watched MJ Unpacked bring their event to market and, in a little more than a year, become one of the most exciting must-attend events in the industry,” noted Sam Arellano, co-founder of ABC Brand / Design. “Given their trajectory, we knew we could lean in to support their brand to truly reflect their innovation and passion.”
The punchy new branding better captures the energy of the event, which is at once exclusive and inclusive. What do we mean by that? Attendance is limited to accredited investors, as well as cannabis brand and retail executives. Yet within that elite group we see a greater diversity than one might expect, from legacy California growers to BIPOC retail dynamos to executives from the biggest MSOs.
It’s no surprise that the rebrand is on point. ABC Brand / Design co-founders Sam & Johanna Arellano bring decades of CPG branding and design experience to the cannabis space. Sam is a former CMO at Canndescent, and their firm has worked with other leading cannabis brands, as well as with mainstream brands such as Lululemon, Nike, and Red Bull.
MJ Unpacked features two distinct conference programs: the main conference designed for operators, and a venture summit exclusively for investors, fund managers, and family offices. The main conference will offer lively panels, as stars of the cannabis world explore the key issues that we face today. The Brand Experience Hall will showcase leading cannabis brands from across the US cannabis ecosystem, alongside select industry suppliers relevant to the licensed operators.
“The approach to the event design is to have the feel of an executive conference and the discovery of a trade event,” noted co-founder George Jage. “Aside from delivering a highly qualified audience, we prioritize the principles of hospitality in every aspect of the event and create unique experiences for our guests.”
Kim Jage, co-founder and CMO, commented “Sam Arellano and his team nailed it. The rebrand best reflects who we are and where we’re going. We made a splash when we launched and have every intention of being iconic. Thanks to ABC Brand / Design, our new look supports the vision.”
