The Future of Cannabis Marketing Event Speaker Spotlight: Chris Cantergiani
On January 18, 2022, the Cannabis Marketing Association is hosting the Future of Cannabis Marketing event. This forward-thinking, half-day virtual Ted-style event will discuss the cannabis future we want cannabis marcom leaders need to do to shape this future.
Chris Cantergiani will be the fourth speaker of the day. Learn about his background and what he will be talking about:
What topic will you be speaking about at the future of cannabis marketing event?
My topic for the January 18th CMA event is “High Society Hospitality”. I realized this year while visiting Detroit, Las Vegas, and San Francisco that the cannabis consumer experience is evolving to include curated locations where people can partake. The cannabis tourism industry will be evolving and expanding in 2022.
Why is what you are discussing at the event interesting and important?
During the pandemic, cannabis was declared an essential business in 30 states. That had a direct impact on helping erase the stigma of cannabis use. Now, with domestic travel approaching pre-pandemic levels, an increasing number of people are basing their destination decisions around whether cannabis is legal in that location. Cannabis travel and tourism is finally a real thing in America. There will be opportunities for marketers to partner with trailblazing entrepreneurs in this exciting new industry.
What is your background in the cannabis marketing industry?
I started covering the medical marijuana industry in Massachusetts in 2014 while working as the investigative producer for the NBC station in Boston. I continued to cover the industry in Ohio for the NBC station in Cleveland a few years later. In 2018, my wife and I started Hello Manito, a marketing and creative content company. Recently I’ve been doing work with cannabis cultivators in Michigan, Ohio and New Mexico focusing on marketing strategy and creative direction.
What do you bring to the cannabis marketing industry that sets you apart?
Seth Godin famously said, “Marketing is no longer about the stuff you make, but the stories you tell.” Over the years I’ve earned 16 Emmy awards for stories I’ve written and produced across the country. I know how to tell stories and now I want to tell yours.
Why do you think the future of cannabis marketing is important and why should people be educated about it?
I recently heard someone in the music business say, “It’s crowded at the bottom.” As I immerse myself more in this rapidly growing industry, I observe that cannabis brands in some states feel the same way. There are an increasing number of companies entering into the cannabis space, and one of the most effective ways for businesses to stand out is via strategic and creative marketing efforts. However, marketing is heavily regulated in this industry. Choosing the marketing partner who is not only skilled in a variety of areas but who is also knowledgeable about the regulations will be the secret weapon that gives cannabis companies the edge over the competition.
Buy your ticket to hear Chris speak at the Future of Cannabis Marketing event here!
