Conference Schedule

(Panel Discussion) BC’s Direct Delivery model is shifting control from centralized distribution to the hands of growers and retailers. This panel explores how micro and small-scale producers are using direct delivery to increase margins, speed up time-to-market, and build stronger partnerships with stores. Retailers will share how direct relationships with cultivators are helping them differentiate their offerings and better serve local markets. Plus, hear from a marketing agency on how strategic brand support can enhance the impact of direct delivery. Join us for a practical discussion on the benefits, trade-offs, and real-world strategies for making direct delivery work.

Moderated By: Jaclynn Pehota

11:00 am - 1:00 pm (2 hours)

Separate Ticketed Event
Free for brand zone exhibitors and approved retail buyers.

Mark your calendars! On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, our Brands and Buyers Speed Networking event returns. This dynamic experience brings together innovative cannabis brands and key retail buyers, creating the perfect platform to highlight your products, make valuable connections, and grow your business.

(Panel Discussion) The cannabis retail landscape is evolving fast — and success lies in understanding your customer and acting on the data. In Part 1, dive into the latest consumer insights, including shifting demographics, emerging product trends, and key purchase drivers. In Part 2, learn how to turn those insights into action through data-driven inventory management, smart pricing, and targeted promotions. This hands-on session equips you with the tools to attract new segments, retain loyal customers, and boost profitability — all while staying compliant in a dynamic market.

Moderated By: Katie Pringle

(Panel Discussion) As cannabis retail continues to evolve, one of the biggest opportunities lies in forging stronger connections between retailers and brands. Moderated from the retailer’s perspective — “How can I, as a retailer, make these connections?” — this discussion will explore how collaborative partnerships can help stores stand out in a competitive market. From exclusive product deals and co-marketing initiatives to working directly with small producers, panelists will share strategies that strengthen relationships and unlock mutual growth. We’ll also look ahead to innovations shaping retail’s future, including personalization, loyalty ecosystems, and the potential of consumption spaces. Retailers and brands alike will leave with practical insights to build partnerships that create lasting impact.

Moderated By: Rob Laurie

 

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm (2 hours)

Separate Ticketed Event
Free for brand zone exhibitors and approved retail buyers.

Mark your calendars! On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, our Brands and Buyers Speed Networking event returns. This dynamic experience brings together innovative cannabis brands and key retail buyers, creating the perfect platform to highlight your products, make valuable connections, and grow your business.

(Panel Discussion) Before legalization, there were decades of resistance, risk, and resilience. This deeply personal panel brings together voices from the front lines of the cannabis movement to share untold stories — from courtroom battles and storefront raids to civil disobedience and grassroots activism.

Together, they’ll explore what it meant to fight for access in a criminalized world, and how the transition to a regulated industry has impacted the culture, community, and values that built it. Through powerful storytelling and sharp reflection, this conversation honors the past while asking hard questions about justice, inclusion, and who truly gets to participate in the future of cannabis.

Whether you’re part of the new wave or the old guard, these are the voices that shaped the foundation of today’s industry — and they have something to say.

Moderated By: Robert Laurie

 

(Presentation) Getting a product onto dispensary shelves is the easy part — keeping it there is where brands win or lose. This session breaks down the real strategies that drive sell-through in competitive cannabis markets without racing to the bottom on price.

We’ll dig into how to build retail relationships that last, design promotions that protect margin while still moving volume, and leverage data to position products with intention. Attendees will walk away with practical frameworks they can apply immediately — whether they’re launching a new SKU or trying to revive a slow mover.

Shelf space doesn’t equal success. Sell-through does.