Driven Deliveries, Inc. (OTC: DRVD), a publicly traded cannabis company, has formed a strategic partnership with Dr. Greenthumb’s Dispensary in Sylmar, California, to handle its e-commerce and on-demand delivery. The agreement connects rapper B-Real's popular brand with Driven's distribution platform, aiming to expand direct-to-consumer sales in legal markets. This move highlights the growing integration of celebrity-backed cannabis ventures with technology-driven logistics amid California's evolving regulatory landscape.
A Celebrity Brand Meets Delivery Expertise
B-Real, known for Cypress Hill, launched Dr. Greenthumb’s in August 2018 as a fully licensed outlet for medical and adult-use cannabis, accessories, and apparel. The dispensary draws on his stature in music and cannabis culture, with Cypress Hill promoting it through social media and marketing channels. Driven Deliveries, founded by technology and cannabis executives, will use a newly acquired distribution license to ensure full product availability and deliver in permitted cities.
Expanding Reach Through Online Sales
The partnership includes building an online store for Dr. Greenthumb’s to increase exposure and customer access. Driven's platform supports on-demand marijuana delivery where laws allow, addressing gaps in physical retail. Dr. Greenthumb’s plans a Sacramento location opening on June 30, 2019, and eyes further sites in California and other legal states, signaling ambitions beyond its Sylmar base.
Executive Optimism and Cultural Ties
CEO Christian Schenk called the deal an ideal match for a growing brand, praising B-Real as a legend whose products will boost Driven's sales and profile. B-Real, now a connoisseur and ambassador rather than full-time cultivator, emphasized new strains like Insane O.G. and future flavors, managed by longtime associates. He described the collaboration as a major step driving availability and revenue, the first of several initiatives.
Navigating Regulations and Industry Risks
B-Real voiced caution amid California's bureaucracy, citing shutdowns of unlicensed dispensaries and past cases like Tommy Chong's imprisonment for bong manufacturing. His team avoids overexpansion to protect momentum, focusing on strains and mini glassworks like nanoscopes instead of large-scale production. The partnership positions both companies to deliver high-quality products while adapting to enforcement that demands complete paperwork before operations, a challenge echoed in states like Hawaii.
