Craft-Brew Inspired Cannabis Company Hires Anheuser-Busch InBev Veteran As New CEO

In a decisive move to amplify its foothold in the cannabis beverage market, Blaze Life Holdings (BLH) has named Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV BUD veteran, Shreyas Balakrishnan as its new CEO.

With a stellar career spanning almost two decades at Anheuser-Busch, Balakrishnan has showcased prowess in brewing and distillery operations, distribution, sales and M&A. "Under his leadership, Cutwater Spirits has become the #1 RTD Cocktail Brand in the US," per a press release, highlighting his growth strategy.

See Also: Discover Wellness: The Latest In Cannabis-Infused Beverages & Gummies Redefining Tomorrow

His recent stint as president of Cutwater Spirits saw the brand's acquisition by Anheuser-Busch in 2019 and its distribution across all 50 states and overseas markets like the UK, Canada and Australia.

Paul Burgis, BLH co-founder, commented on the appointment. "Shreyas' proven track record... will accelerate our momentum and grow the cannabis beverage category overall." He emphasized Balakrishnan’s experience, highlighting his role in "navigating the route to market in complex environments."

At a pivotal juncture in the California cannabis scene, BLH aims to model its distribution on the regulated alcohol industry's three-tier system.

"The deeply ingrained culture of ownership and not taking shortcuts carry over to my journey into the dynamic cannabis industry," said Balakrishnan.

About Blaze Life Holdings: Founded in 2017 by cannabis visionaries, Scott Kim and Paul Burgis, BLH aspires to revolutionize the cannabis beverage industry, drawing operational parallels with the craft brewing sector.

Set for production commencement in Q4 2023, BLH's Delta Bev co-packing facility in Canoga Park, Los Angeles, promises to be a game-changer as the globe's largest cannabis beverage manufacturing hub.

Read Next: Cannabis-based Alcoholic Beverages Market Size & Share to Surpass $1.1 Billion by 2030 | Vantage Market Research

In related news, a new report revealed that the 'Cannabis Beverages Market' is poised for substantial growth, offering insights into the industry's size, scope, and potential. This market is expected to grow annually by 6.8% (CAGR) from 2023 to 2030.

Want to hear more? Consider joining us at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago this Sept 27-28. All information is available at bzcannabis.com

Image by Blaze Life Holdings