Las Vegas, Nevada (MJBizDaily) — December 6, 2024 – The cannabis industry’s brightest stars were celebrated at the Emjays International Cannabis Awards on Thursday night, hosted at the Pearl Concert Theater inside Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. For the second consecutive year, industry professionals gathered to honor individuals, companies, and organizations that have made significant contributions to the cannabis sector. The winners were determined through public voting, followed by selections from an expert panel of industry leaders.
Major Winners at the Emjays Awards
Cultivation Company of the Year
Royal Queen Seeds, based in the Netherlands, won the prestigious award for Non-Tech Cultivation Company of the Year. Shai Ramsahai, President of Royal Queen Seeds, expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the support of their customers and voters. Ramsahai emphasized the company’s role in advancing the homegrown cannabis market, especially highlighting the potential of cannabis seeds for future growth.
“Thank you to all our customers and the people who voted for us; we couldn’t have won this prize without your support. This year, we’ve shown the people how much potential there is for the homegrown market,” Ramsahai said. “We are convinced that cannabis seeds are the future, so grow higher.”
Advocacy Organization of the Year
The Last Prisoner Project, a leading advocacy group focused on criminal justice reform for individuals affected by cannabis prohibition, was awarded Advocacy Organization of the Year. The award underscores the ongoing importance of cannabis policy reform and the need for equitable justice.
Law Firm of the Year
Denver-based Vicente, a law firm specializing in cannabis law, was recognized as Law Firm of the Year. The firm has been at the forefront of cannabis regulation and compliance, providing critical legal services to operators in the rapidly evolving industry.
Extraction/Concentrate Brand of the Year
The Clear, a well-known cannabis concentrate brand, took home the award for Extraction/Concentrate Brand of the Year. CEO Rich Battenberg Jr. shared a heartfelt message, acknowledging the origins of the company.
“This wouldn’t have happened for us if, 13 years ago, four people in Long Beach hadn’t been in a commune with a grow and a lab,” Battenberg Jr. said, reflecting on the brand’s humble beginnings.
Best Marketing Campaign
DaySavers won the award for Best Marketing Campaign with its “Stoner Dream Job” initiative. The campaign was praised for its innovative approach to engaging consumers and promoting cannabis culture in a fun and accessible way.
Best Newcomer Brand
55Plus, a rising cannabis brand, was recognized as the Best Newcomer Brand of the Year. The brand has made significant strides in bringing cannabis products to older demographics, tapping into a previously underserved market.
Cannabis (Flower) Brand of the Year
American Weed Co., co-founded by Ryan Brooks, was awarded Cannabis (Flower) Brand of the Year. Brooks expressed gratitude for the award, especially dedicating it to veterans and first responders, who he believes should have priority access to cannabis.
“We want to express our deepest gratitude to all the veterans and first responders; they’re the true heroes, and we believe they deserve priority access to this amazing plant,” Brooks said.
He also acknowledged the efforts of pioneers in the industry, particularly those from California’s Emerald Triangle.
Legacy and Newcomer Operators Celebrated
The Emjays Awards showcased a blend of both legacy operators and newer entrants into the cannabis industry. Legacy operators like The Last Prisoner Project and Vicente continue to push for critical advocacy and legal advancements, while newer brands like 55Plus and DaySavers demonstrate the industry’s evolving landscape, embracing innovative marketing and unique approaches to product offerings.
The Emjays International Cannabis Awards 2024 once again highlighted the exceptional talent, passion, and perseverance within the global cannabis industry. From cultivation experts to groundbreaking marketing campaigns, these awards shine a light on the businesses and individuals paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative cannabis future.
