Sunnies, a Maryland-based cannabis company, is setting a new trend in the state’s cannabis market with the launch of its THC-infused sparkling water. This move comes after significant legal developments in the state, opening up new opportunities for cannabis-based products.
New Horizons for Maryland’s Cannabis Market
In 2023, Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed a bill allowing medical cannabis growers to transition into the recreational market. This legislation dramatically expanded the state’s cannabis industry, essentially doubling the market overnight. Jake Van Wingerden, CEO of Sunmed Growers, which owns Sunnies, saw this as an opportunity to diversify the company’s product offerings and meet growing demand.
A Growing Market
“The market basically doubled overnight,” Van Wingerden says, reflecting on the shift. According to Van Wingerden, flower products—such as pre-rolls and dried cannabis—account for about 60% of sales in dispensaries, while edibles like gummies and chocolates make up about 15%. However, with a vision of expanding into new categories, the company turned its attention to cannabis-infused beverages, an emerging segment in the cannabis industry.
Introducing Sunnies Socials
Sunnies Socials, the company’s new THC-infused sparkling water line, was created to offer consumers a new way to enjoy cannabis without smoking. The drinks, which are designed to provide relaxation without the typical taste of cannabis, have already generated buzz in the market. Van Wingerden explains that the beverages work by delivering a subtle, calming effect that kicks in about 10 to 15 minutes after consumption, lasting for several hours.
An Alternative to Alcohol
In addition to appealing to cannabis users, Sunnies Socials is positioned as a potential alternative to alcohol. Van Wingerden, who himself is trying to reduce alcohol consumption, sees cannabis drinks as a healthier substitute for traditional alcoholic beverages in social settings. “I view this as a replacement potentially for alcohol,” he says, noting that the social nature of drinking makes cannabis-infused drinks an attractive option for those looking for a different way to unwind.
Facing Competition in a Growing Market
The launch of Sunnies Socials is just the beginning for the company, which plans to introduce additional flavors in the near future. Van Wingerden acknowledges the competitive landscape, with several other companies entering the cannabis-infused beverage market. As of now, Sunnies Socials are sold exclusively in licensed dispensaries in Maryland, but Van Wingerden’s vision for the brand is ambitious.
“It’s a very exciting time to be in the industry, but it’s also a competitive business,” he says. The product’s success will depend not only on consumer demand but also on its ability to stand out in a marketplace with numerous competitors.
The Future of Cannabis Consumption
As Maryland’s cannabis industry continues to grow, other businesses are also exploring alternatives to traditional alcohol consumption. With cannabis consumption lounges set to open under the state’s new laws, the demand for social cannabis experiences is likely to increase, and products like Sunnies Socials may play a crucial role in shaping the future of cannabis consumption in Maryland and beyond.
