CBD: On the Brink of Big

It’s a rare moment to have a clear view of the industry illuminated with near-certain potential for exponential growth. But in 2018, with society’s perception of cannabis shifting shifting to a more favorable position, products containing cannabidiol (“CBD”) have been entering the market and are poised to have a positive impact on consumers and a profitable outcome for businesses.

CBD, one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp that does not cause any psychoactive effects, is quickly becoming known for its numerous benefits, and has already entered the market as one of the fastest growing areas of the cannabis industry. According to a recent report by Forbes, sales of CBD products are expected to see an increase of 700 percent by 2020.

Demand for CBD products continues to soar, as more and more consumers look to cannabinoid compounds for their purported health and wellness benefits. In addition, recent studies have suggested that CBD may help relieve the symptoms of many chronic conditions, as concluded in a survey for 2,400 people by HelloMD, a market research firm, as well as Brightfield Group, who found that 80 percent of those surveyed said that determined CBD products to be “very or extremely effective.” This puts the retail market in prime position for that near-certain growth potential, with the ability to capitalize on both new customers and repeat buyers who were pleased with their initial experience.

CBD has also been receiving favorable treatment at the state level, paving a clear path for retailers, distributors, and consumers. Several states have passed legislation allowing for the distribution and retail sale of products containing CBD for medicinal and/or recreational uses, including CBD derived from the cannabis plant and/or from hemp in compliance with the 2014 US Farm Bill.

CBD product development is being driven by consumer demand, but current legislation is creating a clearer roadmap for retailers looking to grow their business in this lucrative, evolving market. In a 2017 report published by the Brightfield Group, it started that hemp-derived CBD will be a $1 billion industry by 2020. In addition, according to the Hemp Business Journal, hemp-derived CBD has enjoyed a 53 percent annual growth rate and is on track to outdo the cannabis annual rate of increase when looking at five year projections.

As CBD becomes even more mainstream and has been gaining positive traction with consumers, now is the time for retailers distributors to get a strong foothold in the industry. The potential for growth and profit is there. It’s pretty easy to see.

Sources:

1. “CBD Market Estimated to Grow …”, nauturallysplendid.com
2. Forbes study referenced, cashinbis.com/cbd-market-forbes
3. “The CBD Explosion,” April 2, 2018 by Patrick Wagner, marijuanaventure.com

This story is an advertorial that first appeared in the July/August 2018 issue of Tobacco Business Magazine