Evergreen Herbal
Evergreen Herbal creates a world where cannabis can be consumed in a spirit of wellness, freedom, and fun by providing consumers with access to delicious, healthy and reliable cannabis products. We are committed to collaborating with fellow industry leaders, researchers, policy makers, and advocates to create a thriving cannabis industry that benefits everyone.
Please introduce yourself – What’s your name, the name of your organization and your position at the organization.
My name is Marco Hoffman, I am the CEO and Founder of Evergreen Herbal.
When and why did you get involved in it?
A. In 2008 a relative very dear to me began her battle with breast cancer and it was then I witnessed firsthand the dramatic benefits cannabis offered. I decided to immerse myself fully into this industry, quickly becoming an advocate for the legalization and regulation of quality assured cannabis products. Later that year I started one of the fist edible companies in the state of California. The success I found there inspired me to seek out other opportunities to advance both my vision as well as position in the market, and it was at that time I chose to begin anew here in Washington State, founding Evergreen Herbal in 2013.
Most organizations are formed to solve a particular problem – what problem does your cannabis organization solve?
A. We don’t solve problems, we serve. We analyze data and in doing so have a general understanding of what the market is asking for. The market is asking for quality assured, safe, flavorful and well-packaged products. Thusly, we serve the market.
Unfortunately, marijuana is still stigmatized and not fully accepted by many mainstream communities. Have you experienced any negativity from people after telling them what you do? How did you react to it?
A. Initially, I received negative stigma from nearly my entire family. Once someone they were emotionally invested in was positively impacted by cannabis, it changed their attitudes entirely. Transforming perspectives and breaking through stigmas related to cannabis, its users and the industry itself is one of the most exciting parts of my job.
The Trump Administration has at the very least, not taken a pro-cannabis stance. Are you worried about your organization in the era of Donald Trump and Jeff sessions?
A. Thank God for Donald Trump and Jeff Sessions! I truly believe they were the best thing to happen to cannabis. There’s a clown car driving around Washington DC, and with Trump behind the wheel, I don’t believe we have anything to worry about. He can’t get anything done!
What makes your organization different from other similarly situated organization in the industry?
A. With ten years of operational experience behind us, we have a better understanding of the topography of the industry. I can safely state that what sets us apart from the pack is experience. I continuously draw from my background as a cinematographer when making branding and marketing decisions. Recently, we brought in Andy Brassington as CFO which has proven to be a formidable alliance. Andy came to us from Lamb-Weston where he served as General Counsel, and prior served as COO/EVP of Holtzinger Fruit Company, one of the largest grower, packer, and shipper of tree fruit in the Pacific Northwest. His agricultural knowledge combined with my cannabis experience makes for an interesting and well-rounded duo.
What is the one thing you would like interested readers to know about your organization?
A. We pride ourselves on our extensive product research and development process, committing ourselves to producing the highest quality cannabis products in the market today. We manufacture, distribute and sell a wide range of cannabis infused branded consumer packaged goods that look and taste good.
What is the best piece of advice you have for individuals looking to get involved in the marijuana space?
A. If you’re looking to get out of the staunch corporate environment, but are a little reluctant because of the stigma associated with cannabis – don’t be. The industry is starving for intelligent, hardworking and motivated people. No matter what your background or how much experience you have, you have something positive to contribute to this movement. Show up early. Be professional. And don’t consume cannabis at work.
Marco Hoffman is the CEO and Founder of Evergreen Herbal, located downtown Seattle, WA. Marco has been in the cannabis industry for ten years and has persisted as an advocate across the globe for the legalization and regulation of quality assured cannabis products. (more bio below)
