As we recently covered, CannaCon rolled into Tacoma this past weekend and was a success by all accounts.

Showcasing the latest technologies in the cannabis industry, nearly 100 exhibitors filled the upstairs ballroom of the Tacoma Convention Center. From the growers, to the labs, to the end-user products, CannaCon had all the strains of cannabis covered.

Downstairs, the foot traffic was heavy between the two conference rooms where industry experts weighed in on the burgeoning, yet byzantine, biz. In fact, there were 20 seminars over the two-day expo. The 50-minute sessions focused on business operations, government relations, and a whole lot of talk around marketing and advertising.

And, with marijuana legal in 11 states and legal for medical use in 33 states, there was plenty to talk about. Indeed, according to Marijuana Business Daily, up to a dozen states could legalize adult use or medical marijuana in 2020. However, conservative estimates puts that number around six states that will adopt some type of legislation.

CannaCon’s weed warriors were treated to a closing seminar by Flip Croft Caderao, founder of Greenlit Agency. Providing insight into the regulatory nuances of cannabis advertising, Caderao navigated through the different rules and regulations that change state-to-state.

Above all else, Caderao ended with his advertising ‘Top 4 Rules’ that everyone in the business should adhere to.

Flip’s Top 4 Rules

• Don’t Lie.  Similarly, stay away from all hyperbole.
• Don’t make any health claims – ever! In addition, make sure that your advertising is not intentionally – or unintentionally – promoting overuse.
• Do not cross state lines. Advertising must be kept in state – there is no such thing as national advertising in the cannabis world. There are various restrictions within each state that you must adhere to. Ironically, transit ads in Washington State are against regulations. However, if you want to “adopt a highway” with your business name on the road sign, you can go for it.
• Do not market to individuals under 21. Be careful not to depict individuals under 21, or any objects that might suggest the presence of a child (no cartoons, no toys, etc.). Additionally, advertising must be kept 1,000 feet away from schools, playgrounds, rec centers, public parks, libraries and other like gathering spots where those under 21 may be.

If you missed CannaCon in Tacoma, they’re taking their show on the road throughout the year. Catch them in Detroit (April 2 & 3), Oklahoma City (May 29 & 30), Chicago (July 17 & 18), and Boston (August 29 &30).

In the meantime, check out these friendly faces of CannaCon Tacoma 2020.