This past March, the world’s biggest cannabis festival, Spannabis, once again took over the vibrant city of Barcelona. The event, which has been running since 2004, attracted cannabis enthusiasts and business leaders from all corners of the globe. As the Cannabis Now Team captured the energy of the festival on film, it was clear that this was not just your average trade show.
Spannabis has always been known for its unique blend of a conference trade show and a music festival, creating an unparalleled experience for attendees. And this year was no different. The recap video, shot on the last day of the festival, gives a closer look at Spannabis and features exclusive interviews with leaders from top cannabis brands such as Blimburn Seeds, Royal Queen Seeds, High Tide, Humboldt Seed Company, Athena, Vlasic Labs, and more.
One of the most striking aspects of Spannabis is the strong sense of camaraderie and collaboration among brands. Despite the challenges faced by the industry, these leaders are determined to work together to strengthen and grow the cannabis community. Ramon Van Wanrooij, director of e-commerce at High Tide, reflects on the tough nature of the industry, saying, “Constantly you’re dealing with legal issues, compliance issues, but the ones that are in the industry—eventually they became really great leaders and really great businessmen because they had to deal with so many issues being flexible.” His advice for the next generation? “Work hard, socialize, follow your passion, embrace the culture.”
But as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. And for Spannabis, that end will come in March 2025, as the festival will be moving to Bilboa next year. While Barcelona and its vibrant culture have been the perfect backdrop for Spannabis, it’s time to see what the future holds. Sergio Martinez, CEO of BBG Projects at Blimburn Seeds, has been attending Spannabis since its inception and is optimistic about what’s to come. “I see things how they used to be like 20 years ago and how they are now, and I’m really optimistic of what I think is going to come next,” he says.
As we bid farewell to Spannabis in Barcelona, we can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the past and excitement for the future. The end of an era is bittersweet, but it also marks the beginning of a new chapter for the cannabis industry. And with the passion, dedication, and collaboration of these leaders, the future looks bright indeed.
