News
press release
SLANG Worldwide Returns To California Market Through Strategic Partnership With Natura
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 4, 2021) - SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CNSX: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) ("SLANG" or the "Company"), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods (CPG) company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, today announced that it is relaunching in California with popular edibles brand District Edibles. Products will be manufactured exclusively by Natura Life + Science ("Natura"), a vertically integrated cannabis manufacturing company and available throughout the Golden State.
Based in Sacramento, Natura is bringing back one of California's favorite infused products, District Edibles, which were previously one of the top-selling gummies in the state. "With brand recognition for District Edibles already established, this partnership will enable SLANG to increase Gross Merchandise Value and distribution in one of our key emerging markets," said Chris Driessen, CEO of SLANG.
California is the largest cannabis market in the U.S., generating sales of nearly $4.4 billion USD in 2020 up 57 percent from 2019, according to MJ Biz Daily.
Through a previously announced strategic partnership, Natura has been granted an exclusive license to produce and distribute the SLANG product suite in California. The Company expects to launch more SLANG-branded products in the coming quarters. SLANG will also provide sales consulting services and will receive royalty payments for each branded product sold in the state.
Seth Sznapstajler, VP of Sales, Natura said, "SLANG is one of the most successful and admired industry leaders in cannabis consumer packaged goods. Natura has a world-class manufacturing facility, built to bring the best cannabis products to market. With this partnership, we have a dream team that will enable SLANG brands to thrive in California. By popular demand, we're kicking off the partnership by launching District Edibles. The Natura team is ecstatic to bring such a tasty and high-quality product to the California market."
Equity Compensation Issuances
SLANG also announces that it will issue an aggregate of 732,936 common shares ("SLANG Shares"), at a deemed price of C$0.21 per SLANG Share, to 25 employees, including 3 executive officers, who elected to receive shares as part of their compensation. The issuance of the SLANG Shares is subject to Canadian Securities Exchange (the "Exchange") approval and a hold period expiring 4 months and 1 day from the date of issuance, unless waived by the Exchange.
The Company also announces that it has granted 3,232,398 incentive stock options, 2,742,398 of which were granted to directors and officers, the options are subject to vesting provisions and exercisable for five and ten year periods at a price of C$0.21 per SLANG Share.
The Company further announces it has granted 350,000 restricted share units (each, an "RSU"), to certain key employees of the Company, 250,000 of which were granted to an officer. RSUs represent the right to receive, upon vesting, SLANG Shares, cash, or any combination thereof, at the discretion and approval of the directors of the Company.
To be added to SLANG's email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com with "SLNG" in the subject.
About SLANG Worldwide Inc.
SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements included in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the manufacture and distribution of SLANG branded products in California.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings "Risk Factors" in SLANG's annual information form dated April 29, 2021 and other disclosure documents available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.
Third Party Information
This press release includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third party sources, including industry publications. The Company believes that the industry data is accurate and that its estimates and assumptions are reasonable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of this data. Third party sources generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. Although the data is believed to be reliable, the Company has not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this press release or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources.
Media and Investor inquiriesInvestors@SLANGww.com
KCSA Strategic CommunicationsPhil Carlson / Elizabeth BarkerSLANG@kcsa.com
Press Release
SLANG Worldwide Launches O.pen Daily Strains and District Edibles Products in Washington State through Strategic Partnership with Snowcrest
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 14, 2021) - SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CSE: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) ("SLANG" or the "Company"), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods (CPG) company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, today announced that it has launched two of its best-selling brands, O.pen and District Edibles, in the State of Washington through a strategic partnership with Snowcrest LLC ("Snowcrest"), a cultivator and processor in Vancouver, WA.
One of America's best-selling vape brands, O.pen, is now available across dispensaries in Washington. District Edibles is expected to launch in August, further increasing SLANG's product penetration in the Evergreen State. The strategic partnership with Snowcrest, LLC, allows for SLANG brands to be produced in a vertically integrated facility.
"Washington is one of the largest cannabis markets in the United States and we are excited to launch our first products for the adult-use market," said Chris Driessen, CEO of SLANG. "This strategic partnership enables us to increase our Gross Merchandise Value metric and expand our retail distribution network through a well-respected, vertically integrated operator with an established track record of success."
As part of this previously announced partnership, Snowcrest will manufacture SLANG branded products, and SLANG's sales and marketing teams will work to place these products in dispensaries across the state. The agreement follows a royalty-based payment structure. In addition, Dolce Foglia, LLC, a full-service flavor house catering to the growing food & beverage industries, is also working with Snowcrest to provide premium flavorings in an array of edible products.
Ryan Fabian, Owner of Snowcrest, LLC said, "We are thrilled about the strategic alliance with SLANG Worldwide for the Washington State cannabis market. The widely respected brands by SLANG, along with both teams' shared core values and vision of growth are a perfect fit. We proudly manufacture the highest quality flower, vape and edibles for distribution throughout the State of Washington. We look forward to years of successful growth together with the dynamic team and product brands of SLANG Worldwide."
To be added to SLANG's email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com with "SLNG" in the subject.
About SLANG Worldwide Inc.
SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements included in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the distribution of SLANG branded products in the state of Washington.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings "Risk Factors" in SLANG's annual information form dated April 29, 2021 and other disclosure documents available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.
Media and Investor inquiriesInvestors@SLANGww.comKCSA Strategic CommunicationsPhil Carlson / Elizabeth BarkerSLANG@kcsa.com
Press Release
SLANG Worldwide Creates Third Core Market With Signing of Definitive Merger Agreement to Acquire High Fidelity, Vermont's Largest Vertically Integrated Operation
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - June 28, 2021) - SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CNSX: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) ("SLANG" or the "Company"), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods (CPG) company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, today announced that it has entered into an agreement and plan of merger (the "Merger Agreement") to acquire High Fidelity, Inc. ("HI-FI"), Vermont's largest medical cannabis company (the "Merger").
Key Transaction Benefits:
Delivers an accretive transaction on prospective Adjusted EBITDA basis
Broadens SLANG's core market footprint to include Vermont, adding to its existing core markets of Colorado and Oregon
Adds two of the five medical cannabis licenses in Vermont with four fully operational dispensaries, including in the Burlington area, with ability to add two new retail dispensaries upon receipt of licenses
Expands SLANG's operational footprint with the addition of Vermont's leading vertically integrated cannabis company, which includes a 28,000-square-foot cultivation, production, lab, and distribution facility, with a planned 50,000-square-foot expansion expected to be completed in 2022
Strengthens SLANG's experienced leadership further with engaged and aligned local management teams including a proven and profitable operator with an eight-year history
Key Vermont Market Benefits:
Creates new jobs with competitive wages and benefit packages
Brings fresh capital investment into the state, helping to build infrastructure to meet market demand
Provides immediate opportunity for Vermont-branded product distribution to a larger US market through SLANG's established 2200-outlet retail pipeline
Adds expertise to support best manufacturing practices, innovation and regulatory compliance
Creates strong partnership in supporting the social justice initiatives in Vermont's cannabis laws
HI-FI is one of Vermont's premier vertically integrated cannabis companies, founded in 2012 in Burlington, the state's largest urban and cultural center. The Company owns two of the five medical cannabis licenses in Vermont, Champlain Valley Dispensary ("CVD") and Southern Vermont Wellness ("SVW"), and services approximately 70 percent of registered patients[2]. In June 2021, both CVD and SVW commenced operating under a new brand name, CeresMED. In the upcoming licensing process for adult use, current medical license holders will have early access to the market alongside Vermont's craft growers, giving them a significant opportunity to build consumer loyalty. In addition to the four dispensaries, HI-FI operates statewide home delivery services and wholesale distribution of its own branded products as well as SLANG branded products. HI-FI has a long-standing mutually beneficial relationship with SLANG as a licensed manufacturer and distributor of leading vape brand, O.pen, in Vermont since 2015. Additionally, the Merger is expected to lead to the introduction of more of SLANG's award-winning, market-leading brands (District Edibles, Firefly, Bakked and Lunchbox Alchemy) to the Vermont market.
Retail sales in Vermont for adult-use cannabis products are expected to begin in the fall of 2022, with sales expected to reach up to US$230 million in 2023.
"We recognized the value in High Fidelity as a local success story and pioneer in the Vermont cannabis community, focused on providing access to patients and consumers", said Chris Driessen, Chief Executive Officer of SLANG. "The High Fidelity team is proud of their accomplishments to date and are committed to the 'Vermont Way' of doing things, which means a focus on quality, collaboration and the best consumer and employee experience. We understand these core values and are equally committed to nurturing their value-driven culture. This partnership will not only serve the cannabis community, it will bring quality jobs and revenue to the local and state economy."
Shayne Lynn, President of HI-FI said, "Since our inception, we have led the Vermont cannabis industry with a 'people first' philosophy and a focus on expanding patient access and consumer education. With this transaction, we will be able to share experience and resources to help build new regional brands and create a new business model in the industry. As part of SLANG, we can continue to expand our offerings, create more jobs in our communities and remain true to our Vermont heritage, which the SLANG team values tremendously."
In addition to four medical cannabis licenses, HI-FI also owns Ceres Natural Remedies, Vermont's original CBD store. Since 2016, Ceres has grown to include three retail stores and a portfolio of Ceres branded products with distribution in over 1,200 retail locations, which will expand the SLANG network to over 3,400 total points of retail distribution. In addition to its own branded products, Ceres has a strong track record of scaling up regional and national brands through its sales channels. In 2019, Ceres purchased trētap, a Vermont-based sparkling beverage company and the first of its kind to utilize organic tree water from maple sugarbushes. In 2019, Ceres launched trētap CBD, with four new sparkling beverages infused with CBD.
Additionally, HI-FI is awaiting approval of a social equity application for a retail medical cannabis license in New Jersey. This application was submitted in collaboration with partners native to Trenton, N.J. with a mission to support communities disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs.
Driessen concluded, "Having already worked with the HI-FI team for a number of years, we are excited to expand our relationship with the team and participate in the Vermont market in a more significant way."
Lynn will join SLANG's leadership team and is expected to join the Company's board of directors upon closing of the Merger.
Transaction details:
At the closing of the Merger, SLANG will pay US$12,000,000 of the Purchase Price by issuing an aggregate of 31,578,947 restricted voting shares in the capital of SLANG (the "SLANG Shares") (based on an implied price per share of US$0.38), and paying US$3,000,000 in cash. At the 18-month anniversary of the closing of the Merger, SLANG will pay US$250,000 of the Purchase Price by issuing 657,894 SLANG Shares (based on an implied price per share of US$0.38), and paying US$2,000,000 in cash. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, SLANG may issue additional SLANG Shares upon the achievement of certain performance milestones. Completion of the Merger remains subject to the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions precedent in the Merger Agreement, including the receipt of the approval of the State of Vermont's Department of Public Safety and any other government authority whose approval is required. Closing of the Merger is expected to occur in Q3 2021.
To be added to SLANG's email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com to be added to SLANG's email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com with "SLNG" in the subject.
About SLANG Worldwide Inc.
SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements included in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the completion of the Merger on the terms described herein or at all and the manufacture and distribution of new SLANG-branded products in Vermont.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings "Risk Factors" in SLANG's annual information form dated April 29, 2021 and other disclosure documents available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.
Media and Investor inquiriesInvestors@SLANGww.com
KCSA Strategic CommunicationsPhil Carlson / Elizabeth BarkerSLANG@kcsa.com
press release
SLANG Worldwide Appoints Hilal Tabsh as Chief Revenue Officer
Former BellRock Brands executive joins the company to further integrate commerce and business development
Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – June 18, 2021) – SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CNSX: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) (“SLANG” or the “Company“), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods (CPG) company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, today announced the appointment of Mr. Hilal Tabsh as the Company’s Chief Revenue Officer (“CRO”), effective immediately.
As a 20-year Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry veteran, Mr. Tabsh brings a wealth of experience in leadership, strategy development, and expertise in sales, marketing, and distribution to his new role. Before joining SLANG, Mr. Tabsh worked as a Senior Vice President at BellRock Brands USA, a CPG platform within the global, legal cannabis industry. In this role, he led sales, marketing, and distribution efforts, coupled with the development of the company’s e-commerce strategy, and was able to grow the distribution footprint by 10X during his time in the role.
Mr. Tabsh said, “I’m excited to join the SLANG Worldwide family, known for their legacy of high-quality products and innovation. I’m eager to focus on accelerating consumer reach to SLANG’s superior product portfolio through strategic marketing efforts, as well as outlining a clear winning strategy for retail and expanding our footprint through effective distribution with our partners across North America.”
Prior to this role, Mr. Tabsh was a Co-Founder and Partner at Limitless, a company based in Chicago. He helped develop Limitless lightly caffeinated sparkling water, which grew rapidly and was eventually acquired by Keurig Dr. Pepper in less than three years for an undisclosed amount.
Previously, Mr. Tabsh served eight years as the Head of Sales and Marketing for Red Bull North America, a subsidiary of Red Bull GmbH. In this role, he successfully managed 152 team members under his direct responsibility and over 200 distribution partners that were key to growing the Red Bull footprint across the U.S. He was responsible for partner development, product launches, sales and distribution strategies and goals. Mr. Tabsh also worked for seven years at Red Bull UAE, based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, serving as Director of Sales and Marketing Strategy.
Chris Driessen, CEO of SLANG, said, “I am thrilled to welcome Hilal to the SLANG executive team. His deep experience, and success, in brand building, sales, marketing and growing distribution channels will be invaluable as we grow our business. Now that many of our recent acquisitions are nearing full integration, his skillset will be a tremendous benefit as we now look to rapidly scale distribution into multiple new markets.”
To be added to SLANG’s email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com with “SLNG” in the subject.
About SLANG Worldwide Inc.
SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “intends”, “estimates”, “projects”, “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will”, “would”, “may”, “could” or “should” occur.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings “Risk Factors” in SLANG’s annual information form dated April 29, 2021 and other disclosure documents available on the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.
Media and Investor inquiriesInvestors@SLANGww.comKCSA Strategic CommunicationsPhil Carlson / Elizabeth BarkerSLANG@kcsa.com
press release
SLANG Worldwide Closes Previously Announced Acquisition of Allied Concessions Group, Inc.
Company enters into agreement to acquire NS Holdings Inc. to bolster its Oregon-based manufacturing assets
Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – June 9, 2021) – SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CNSX: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) (“SLANG” or the “Company“), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods (“CPG“) company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced acquisition (the “ACG Acquisition“) of Allied Concessions Group, Inc. (“ACG“), a manufacturing and distribution business based in Colorado. The ACG Acquisition is expected to become effective within the next week and upon confirmation by the Colorado Secretary of State of its acceptance of the statement of merger.
Additionally, SLANG is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive agreement and plan of merger (the “NSH Merger Agreement“) with respect to a proposed acquisition (the “NSH Acquisition“, and together with the ACG Acquisition, the “Acquisitions“) of NS Holdings Inc. (“NSH“). Pursuant to the terms of the NSH Merger Agreement, SLANG will issue to the shareholders of NSH (i) 2,152,002 common shares in the capital of SLANG (the “Common Shares“) and 3,187,503 restricted voting shares in the capital of SLANG (the “Restricted Shares” and together with the Common Shares, the “Shares“) within the next ten days as a deposit, and (ii) 2,125,002 Common Shares and 2,629,690 Restricted Shares upon closing of the NSH Acquisition. Pursuant to the terms of the NSH Merger Agreement, SLANG may issue additional Shares to the NSH vendors upon the achievement of certain performance milestones. Completion of the NSH Acquisition and the issuance of any Shares in connection therewith remain subject to the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions set forth in the NSH Merger Agreement, including the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the “Exchange“) and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission. Closing of the NSH Acquisition is expected to occur in Q3 2020.
The Acquisitions are the latest development in the Company’s strategy to consolidate its supply chain in both of its core markets Colorado and Oregon. Colorado’s and Oregon’s estimated combined cannabis market size is over US$3.3B1. Upon consolidation of these manufacturing assets, the Company will be able to streamline its operations, creating efficiencies and controlling its supply chain in Oregon and Colorado. This is expected to result in an improved ability to scale production volumes in response to changes in demand, ensuring a more nimble operation that can rapidly adapt to changing market dynamics.
Chris Driessen, CEO of SLANG, said, “We are thrilled to complete our acquisition of Allied Concessions Group. The integration of ACG into our platform will allow us to control our own destiny from seed to wholesale of the entire portfolio of SLANG brands in our largest market by consolidating and streamlining our operations in Colorado. While we have been consolidating the economics of ACG since December 31st, we now fully own the asset, securing an integral part of our operations. NSH represents a further opportunity to consolidate our supply chain throughout our core market of Oregon. By having complete control over our production in these core markets we can more effectively address fluctuations in demand while efficiently managing costs.”
ACG is an Infused Product Manufacturer (MIP) that produces O.pen, Bakked, Firefly and Pressies branded cannabis products in Colorado. ACG is comprised of two different manufacturing and distribution facilities that extract both hydrocarbon and CO2 oil for SLANG branded products in Colorado. This expansion follows SLANG’s recent acquisitions of licensed cannabis cultivator Slang Colorado Cultivation, Inc. and licensed manufacturer and distributor, Slang Colorado Distribution, LLC. in Colorado.
NSH is the parent company of GNT Oregon, LLC (“GNT“), the operating asset in Oregon that produces O.pen, Bakked and District Edibles branded cannabis products in Oregon. GNT operates a licensed CO2 extraction and manufacturing facility in Portland, Oregon. The NSH Acquisition follows SLANG’s recent acquisition of licensed manufacturer and distributor, Lunchbox Alchemy in Oregon.
Share Issuances
SLANG also announces that it will issue an aggregate of 315,249 Common Shares, at a deemed price of C$0.295 per Common Share, to 26 employees, including 3 executive officers, who elected to receive shares in lieu of cash as part of their compensation. The Company further announces that it will issue an aggregate of 112,035 Common Shares at a deemed price of C$0.56 per Common Share in consideration of the provision of past services to the Company by a current director. The issuance of the Common Shares is subject to Exchange approval and such Common Shares shall be subject to a hold period expiring 4 months and 1 day from the date of issuance, unless waived by the Exchange.
About SLANG Worldwide Inc.
SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.
To be added to SLANG’s email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com with “SLNG” in the subject.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “intends”, “estimates”, “projects”, “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will”, “would”, “may”, “could” or “should” occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the ACG Acquisition becoming effective and the timing thereof, the terms and completion of the NSH Acquisition and SLANG’s prospects and the manufacture and distribution of SLANG branded products in Colorado and Oregon.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings “Risk Factors” in SLANG’s annual information form dated April 29, 2021 and other disclosure document available on the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.
Third Party Information
This press release includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third party sources, including industry publications. The Company believes that the industry data is accurate and that its estimates and assumptions are reasonable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of this data. Third party sources generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. Although the data is believed to be reliable, the Company has not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this press release or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources.
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Media and Investor InquiriesInvestors@SLANGww.com
KCSA Strategic CommunicationsPhil Carlson / Elizabeth BarkerSLANG@kcsa.com
1 Source: BDSA
Press Release
SLANG Worldwide Closes Previously Announced Acquisition of Allied Concessions Group, Inc.
Company enters into agreement to acquire NS Holdings Inc. to bolster its Oregon-based manufacturing assets
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - June 9, 2021) - SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CNSX: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) ("SLANG" or the "Company"), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods ("CPG") company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced acquisition (the "ACG Acquisition") of Allied Concessions Group, Inc. ("ACG"), a manufacturing and distribution business based in Colorado. The ACG Acquisition is expected to become effective within the next week and upon confirmation by the Colorado Secretary of State of its acceptance of the statement of merger.
Additionally, SLANG is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive agreement and plan of merger (the "NSH Merger Agreement") with respect to a proposed acquisition (the "NSH Acquisition", and together with the ACG Acquisition, the "Acquisitions") of NS Holdings Inc. ("NSH"). Pursuant to the terms of the NSH Merger Agreement, SLANG will issue to the shareholders of NSH (i) 2,152,002 common shares in the capital of SLANG (the "Common Shares") and 3,187,503 restricted voting shares in the capital of SLANG (the "Restricted Shares" and together with the Common Shares, the "Shares") within the next ten days as a deposit, and (ii) 2,125,002 Common Shares and 2,629,690 Restricted Shares upon closing of the NSH Acquisition. Pursuant to the terms of the NSH Merger Agreement, SLANG may issue additional Shares to the NSH vendors upon the achievement of certain performance milestones. Completion of the NSH Acquisition and the issuance of any Shares in connection therewith remain subject to the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions set forth in the NSH Merger Agreement, including the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "Exchange") and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission. Closing of the NSH Acquisition is expected to occur in Q3 2020.
The Acquisitions are the latest development in the Company's strategy to consolidate its supply chain in both of its core markets Colorado and Oregon. Colorado's and Oregon's estimated combined cannabis market size is over US$3.3B1. Upon consolidation of these manufacturing assets, the Company will be able to streamline its operations, creating efficiencies and controlling its supply chain in Oregon and Colorado. This is expected to result in an improved ability to scale production volumes in response to changes in demand, ensuring a more nimble operation that can rapidly adapt to changing market dynamics.
Chris Driessen, CEO of SLANG, said, "We are thrilled to complete our acquisition of Allied Concessions Group. The integration of ACG into our platform will allow us to control our own destiny from seed to wholesale of the entire portfolio of SLANG brands in our largest market by consolidating and streamlining our operations in Colorado. While we have been consolidating the economics of ACG since December 31st, we now fully own the asset, securing an integral part of our operations. NSH represents a further opportunity to consolidate our supply chain throughout our core market of Oregon. By having complete control over our production in these core markets we can more effectively address fluctuations in demand while efficiently managing costs."
ACG is an Infused Product Manufacturer (MIP) that produces O.pen, Bakked, Firefly and Pressies branded cannabis products in Colorado. ACG is comprised of two different manufacturing and distribution facilities that extract both hydrocarbon and CO2 oil for SLANG branded products in Colorado. This expansion follows SLANG's recent acquisitions of licensed cannabis cultivator Slang Colorado Cultivation, Inc. and licensed manufacturer and distributor, Slang Colorado Distribution, LLC. in Colorado.
NSH is the parent company of GNT Oregon, LLC ("GNT"), the operating asset in Oregon that produces O.pen, Bakked and District Edibles branded cannabis products in Oregon. GNT operates a licensed CO2 extraction and manufacturing facility in Portland, Oregon. The NSH Acquisition follows SLANG's recent acquisition of licensed manufacturer and distributor, Lunchbox Alchemy in Oregon.
Share Issuances
SLANG also announces that it will issue an aggregate of 315,249 Common Shares, at a deemed price of C$0.295 per Common Share, to 26 employees, including 3 executive officers, who elected to receive shares in lieu of cash as part of their compensation. The Company further announces that it will issue an aggregate of 112,035 Common Shares at a deemed price of C$0.56 per Common Share in consideration of the provision of past services to the Company by a current director. The issuance of the Common Shares is subject to Exchange approval and such Common Shares shall be subject to a hold period expiring 4 months and 1 day from the date of issuance, unless waived by the Exchange.
About SLANG Worldwide Inc.
SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.
To be added to SLANG's email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com with "SLNG" in the subject.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the ACG Acquisition becoming effective and the timing thereof, the terms and completion of the NSH Acquisition and SLANG's prospects and the manufacture and distribution of SLANG branded products in Colorado and Oregon.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings "Risk Factors" in SLANG's annual information form dated April 29, 2021 and other disclosure document available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.
Third Party Information
This press release includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third party sources, including industry publications. The Company believes that the industry data is accurate and that its estimates and assumptions are reasonable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of this data. Third party sources generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. Although the data is believed to be reliable, the Company has not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this press release or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources.
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES
Media and Investor Inquiries Investors@SLANGww.com
KCSA Strategic Communications Phil Carlson / Elizabeth BarkerSLANG@kcsa.com
1 Source: BDSA
press release
SLANG Worldwide Announces First Quarter 2021 Financial Results
Revenue of $9.9 million in Q1 2021, a 112% increase over Q1 2020
Gross margin of 37% in Q1 2021, compared with 33% in Q4 2020
Cash and cash equivalents of $12.4 million as of March 31, 2021
Strong brand performance, with approximately 747,927 Branded Units sold in Q1 2021 (a 44% increase over Q1 2020)1
Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – May 27, 2021) – SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CNSX: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) (“SLANG” or the “Company“), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods (CPG) company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, today released financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2021. All figures in this press release are stated in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.
Key Financial and Operational Highlights
Financial Highlights:
Revenue for Q1 2021 was $9.9 million, compared with $4.7 million in Q1 2020 and $9.7 million in Q4 2020. The primary driver of growth was strong demand in the Company’s core markets of Colorado and Oregon as well as the consolidation of wholesale revenue. Similar strength in the Company’s emerging markets also contributed to growth, as did the successful launch of new products including Lunchbox Alchemy CBD.
Gross profit of $3.71 million (37% gross margin) in Q1 2021, compared with $2.85 million (61% gross margin) in Q1 2020 and $3.16 million (33% gross margin) in Q4 2020. In 2020 sales were primarily comprised of licensing and packaging revenue. This represented lower topline revenue but higher gross margin percentages, with lower gross profit dollars. With the consolidation of our operations in our core markets2 we are now generating higher topline revenue with lower gross margin percentages and higher gross profit dollars. The increase in margin from Q4 2020 is a result of fully consolidating the economics of our Colorado manufacturing partner from December 31, 2020.
Adjusted EBITDA (LBITDA) of ($0.96 million) in Q1 2021, compared with ($2.7 million) in Q1 2020. The reduction of the Adjusted EBITDA loss is primarily attributable to an increase in revenue and a reduction in operating expenses. The increase in revenue in Q1 2021 of $5.23M which represents a 112% increase can be attributed to the Company’s consolidation of its core market operations as described above.
$12.4 million of cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2021, compared to $6.5 million at December 31, 2020. This includes proceeds from an oversubscribed private placement (the “Financing”) for aggregate gross proceeds of $11.9 million, led by cannabis-focused private equity firm Merida Capital Holdings.
Chris Driessen, CEO of SLANG, said, “We reported improved topline results, both year over year and sequentially, primarily driven by strength in both our core markets of Colorado and Oregon which benefited from the consolidated economics from our recent acquisitions. Gross profit also improved, as expected, as we fully consolidated the economics of ACG, following the execution of a merger agreement to purchase 100% of the equity interest, which is expected to close in the coming weeks. We continued to integrate and invest in the assets that we acquired in 2020 in our core markets, including launching a new e-commerce store through which we are selling our CBD products, in order to maximize the growth opportunity.
“Looking ahead, we are well-positioned to continue our growth strategy of increasing market share in our core markets and expanding in emerging markets. SLANG will continue to benefit from its leaner, more efficient business model which is allowing us effectively manage costs. Excluding expenses associated with the companies acquired in 2020 which were LBA Global, Peoria Partners, Pleasant Valley Ranch and ACG, operating expenses declined by 20% to $8.66M (or 87% of revenue) compared with Q1 2021 operating expenses of $10.78M (or 230% of revenue). All-in, operating expenses still declined in Q1 2021 compared with Q1 2020. This improved operational efficiency, together with our brand leadership and expanding product portfolio, provides us with a strong platform to support the rapid scaling of our business throughout the remainder of the year. We expect to see stronger emerging market sales in 2021 as we drive brand value creation and expand our presence in these markets. Our partnerships with Trulieve, Natura Life + Science and Gage Cannabis will further contribute to our expanded product distribution and improve our brand performance. With a strong cash balance to fuel our expansion into new states and growth in core markets, we are poised for meaningful growth in the remainder of the year.”
Operational Highlights and Growth Drivers:
Capital efficiency: As of December 31, 2020 the Company consolidated the economics of Allied Concessions Group, Inc. (“ACG”), which led to improved gross margin.
Strategic Partnerships & Emerging Market Expansion: The Company is continuing to recalibrate or strengthen relationships in emerging markets to provide for sustainable and profitable growth. Recent highlights include:
California: The Company’s Strategic Partnership with Natura Life + Science (“Natura”) will allow the Company to re-enter the California market in a profitable way. Products, beginning with District Edibles (the previous best-selling gummy in CA), are expected to be available in Q2 2021.
Massachusetts: The Company has a Strategic Partnership with Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (“Trulieve”) to supply branded products to the market. This is the second market in which SLANG and Trulieve will partner, building on the success that both companies have enjoyed in the Florida market. Massachusetts will mark the first time that both companies can partner on wholesale initiatives, which is a SLANG core competency. Products are expected in summer 2021.
Florida: SLANG products continue to be sold at all 81 Trulieve locations in Florida. The Company added O.pen Cured Resin to its Florida portfolio. The Company expects District Edibles gummies in sweet and sour formulations to launch in Q2 2021.
Michigan: SLANG’s Strategic Partnership with Gage Cannabis, signed in Q2 2020, is expected to bring branded products to the Michigan market in Q3 2021.
Oklahoma: SLANG products are now available in over 90 stores in the Oklahoma market. Sales in Oklahoma were in part driven by District Edibles gummies in both sweet and sour formulations. O.Pen Cured Resin is also set to launch in Oklahoma in Q2 2021.
Washington: The Company has a Strategic Partnership with Snowcrest, LLC to supply branded products to the market. The Company is expected to bring branded products to market in Q3 2021.
Canada: In Q1 2021, the Company’s O.pen and Firefly Mini line of products became available in Ontario. The FireflyMini has been ranked as the #1 selling disposable vape for several weeks in Q1 2021.
Key Performance Indicators: Excluding California, the Company showed considerable growth. 747,927 Branded Units were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 44% compared with 520,239 Branded Units sold in Q1 2020; and 56.5 million Branded Servings were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 23% compared with 46 million Branded Servings sold in Q1 2020. Including California, 748,079 Branded Units were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 18% compared with 634,751 Branded Units sold in Q1 2020; and 56.5 million Branded Servings were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 5% compared with 53.8 million Branded Servings sold in Q1 2020. The Company saw a 169% increase in branded unit volume in Oregon and expects California sales to pick up in Q2 2021 with its strategic partnership with Natura. In markets where units are down but servings are up, this generally is a result of consumer preference shifting from .5g carts to 1g carts, which contain a higher number of servings.
Product Diversification: The Company is bringing new product SKUs to market through the launch of additional brands in new product verticals and the expansion of existing product lines. During the first quarter, the Company entered into a strategic partnership to manufacture and distribute cannabis products for Flower by Edie Parker. The SLANG-manufactured products launched in Colorado in early 2021, with the potential to expand into additional markets over time.
Brand Leadership: SLANG’s brands continued to earn market-leading positions in its core markets in the first quarter of 2021. Highlights include: O.pen ranked as the #1 vape cartridge in Colorado and #12 in Oregon; Firefly Mini was the #5 and O.pen was the #4 disposable vaporizer in Colorado; Bakked was the #5 dabbable distillate in Oregon and #5 in Colorado; District Edibles was the #12 gummy in Colorado and Lunchbox Alchemy was the #8 gummy in Oregon; Pressies was the #4 pill in Colorado. (Source: BDSA.)
First Quarter 2021 Corporate Development Update
SLANG continued to grow in its core markets of Colorado and Oregon.
Nationwide, Slang launched a new e-commerce platform, through which its best-selling CBD gummies, Lunchbox Alchemy CBD, are now available for purchase online. Production and fulfilment of all e-commerce orders will be handled in-house through SLANG’s Oregon and Colorado infrastructure that was acquired in 2020.
In Colorado, Slang signed a strategic partnership agreement with Avér Skin to manufacture, co-package and distribute cannabis-based skincare products, with the potential to expand into additional markets over time.
First Quarter 2021 Financial Review
The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with IFRS. The following is selected presentation of the Income Statement for the quarter end March 31, 2021:
3 monthsended31-Mar-21
3 monthsended31-Mar-20
(In thousands except per share data and percentages)
CDN$
CDN$
Net Operating Revenue
$9,923
$4,690
Cost of goods sold*
6,224
1,836
Gross profit before gain on fair value of biological assets
3,699
2,854
Realized fair value amounts included in inventory sold
26
–
Unrealized gain on changes in fair value of biological assets
(11)
–
Gross Profit
3,714
2,854
Gross Profit Margin
37%
61%
Operating expenses
10,322
10,782
Operating Loss
(6,608)
(7,928)
Other items (Impairment, FV adjustment, FX, gains/losses, taxes, etc.)
2,468
($31,069)
Total Comprehensive Income / (Loss)
($9,076)
$23,141
Earnings Per Share
Basic
($0.02)
$0.08
Diluted
($0.02)
$0.07
Non-IFRS Measures
EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted Gross Profit Margin, Branded Unit volume and Branded Servings volume are non-IFRS financial measures that the Company uses to assess its operating performance. EBITDA is defined as net earnings (loss) before net finance costs, income tax expense (benefit) and depreciation and amortization expense. Management defines Adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA adjusted for other non-cash items such as the impact of unrealized fair values, share based compensation expense, impairments, one-time gains and losses, and one-time revenues and expenses. Management defines Adjusted Gross Profit and Adjusted Gross Margin as gross profit and gross margin adjusted for inventory fair value adjustments and fair value changes of biological assets. See the heading “Key Performance Indicators” in the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2021 (the “Q1 2021 MD&A“) for a description of how each of Branded Unit volume and Branded Servings volume is calculated. This data is furnished to provide additional information and are non-IFRS measures and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. The Company uses these non-IFRS measures to provide shareholders and others with supplemental measures of its operating performance. The Company also believes that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties, frequently use these non-IFRS measures in the evaluation of companies, many of which present similar metrics when reporting their results. As other companies may calculate these non-IFRS measures differently than the Company, these metrics may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. We caution readers that Adjusted EBITDA should not be substituted for determining net loss as an indicator of operating results, or as a substitute for cash flows from operating and investing activities.
3 monthsended31-Mar-21
3 monthsended31-Mar-20
(In thousands except per share data and percentages)
CDN
CDN
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)
($9,076)
$23,141
EBITDA
(4,609)
(6,347)
Adjusted EBITDA
(959)
(2,704)
See the Q1 2021 MD&A for a detailed reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Operating Income / (Loss). SLANG’s financial statements and the Q1 2021 MD&A are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on the Company’s Investor Relations website at www.slangww.com.
Conference Call Details
Management plans to host an investor conference call today, May 27, 2021, at 10:00 am EDT to discuss the results.
Timing:
Thursday, May 27, 2021 at 10:00 am EDT
Dial-in:
+1.833-529-0214 (U.S. toll free) or +1.236-389-2114 (international) or+1.647-689-6824 (international)
ConferenceID:
9672407
Webcast:
A live webcast can be accessed from the Investors section of Company’s website at www.slangww.comor at this link.
A replay of the webcast will be archived on the Company’s website for one year.
Media and Investor InquiriesInvestors@SLANGww.com
KCSA Strategic CommunicationsPhil Carlson / Elizabeth BarkerSLANG@kcsa.com
About SLANG Worldwide Inc.
SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.
To be added to SLANG’s email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com with “SLNG” in the subject.
Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “intends”, “estimates”, “projects”, “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will”, “would”, “may”, “could” or “should” occur. Forward-looking statements included in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the Company’s prospects and the distribution of the Company’s branded products in its core and emerging markets, the proposed acquisition of ACG and ongoing consolidation of its supply chain in core markets and the impact thereof.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings “Risk Factors” in SLANG’s annual information form dated April 13, 2021and “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Q1 2021 MD&A and other disclosure document available on the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.
Third Party Information
This news release includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third party sources, including industry publications. The Company believes that the industry data is accurate and that its estimates and assumptions are reasonable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of this data. Third party sources generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. Although the data is believed to be reliable, the Company has not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this press release or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources.
1 Branded Units Sold and Branded Servings exclude sales in the California market, which the Company exited in 2020.2 This includes acquisition or consolidation of LBA Global Corporation (now renamed Slang Oregon, Inc.), Peoria Partners, LLC (now renamed Slang Colorado Distribution, LLC), Pleasant Valley Ranch LLC (now renamed Slang Colorado Cultivation, Inc.) and Allied Concessions Group, Inc.
Press Release
SLANG Worldwide Announces First Quarter 2021 Financial Results
Revenue of $9.9 million in Q1 2021, a 112% increase over Q1 2020
Gross margin of 37% in Q1 2021, compared with 33% in Q4 2020
Cash and cash equivalents of $12.4 million as of March 31, 2021
Strong brand performance, with approximately 747,927 Branded Units sold in Q1 2021 (a 44% increase over Q1 2020)1
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CNSX: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) ("SLANG" or the "Company"), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods (CPG) company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, today released financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2021. All figures in this press release are stated in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.
Key Financial and Operational Highlights
Financial Highlights:
Revenue for Q1 2021 was $9.9 million, compared with $4.7 million in Q1 2020 and $9.7 million in Q4 2020. The primary driver of growth was strong demand in the Company's core markets of Colorado and Oregon as well as the consolidation of wholesale revenue. Similar strength in the Company's emerging markets also contributed to growth, as did the successful launch of new products including Lunchbox Alchemy CBD.
Gross profit of $3.71 million (37% gross margin) in Q1 2021, compared with $2.85 million (61% gross margin) in Q1 2020 and $3.16 million (33% gross margin) in Q4 2020. In 2020 sales were primarily comprised of licensing and packaging revenue. This represented lower topline revenue but higher gross margin percentages, with lower gross profit dollars. With the consolidation of our operations in our core markets2 we are now generating higher topline revenue with lower gross margin percentages and higher gross profit dollars. The increase in margin from Q4 2020 is a result of fully consolidating the economics of our Colorado manufacturing partner from December 31, 2020.
Adjusted EBITDA (LBITDA) of ($0.96 million) in Q1 2021, compared with ($2.7 million) in Q1 2020. The reduction of the Adjusted EBITDA loss is primarily attributable to an increase in revenue and a reduction in operating expenses. The increase in revenue in Q1 2021 of $5.23M which represents a 112% increase can be attributed to the Company's consolidation of its core market operations as described above.
$12.4 million of cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2021, compared to $6.5 million at December 31, 2020. This includes proceeds from an oversubscribed private placement (the "Financing") for aggregate gross proceeds of $11.9 million, led by cannabis-focused private equity firm Merida Capital Holdings.
Chris Driessen, CEO of SLANG, said, "We reported improved topline results, both year over year and sequentially, primarily driven by strength in both our core markets of Colorado and Oregon which benefited from the consolidated economics from our recent acquisitions. Gross profit also improved, as expected, as we fully consolidated the economics of ACG, following the execution of a merger agreement to purchase 100% of the equity interest, which is expected to close in the coming weeks. We continued to integrate and invest in the assets that we acquired in 2020 in our core markets, including launching a new e-commerce store through which we are selling our CBD products, in order to maximize the growth opportunity.
"Looking ahead, we are well-positioned to continue our growth strategy of increasing market share in our core markets and expanding in emerging markets. SLANG will continue to benefit from its leaner, more efficient business model which is allowing us effectively manage costs. Excluding expenses associated with the companies acquired in 2020 which were LBA Global, Peoria Partners, Pleasant Valley Ranch and ACG, operating expenses declined by 20% to $8.66M (or 87% of revenue) compared with Q1 2021 operating expenses of $10.78M (or 230% of revenue). All-in, operating expenses still declined in Q1 2021 compared with Q1 2020. This improved operational efficiency, together with our brand leadership and expanding product portfolio, provides us with a strong platform to support the rapid scaling of our business throughout the remainder of the year. We expect to see stronger emerging market sales in 2021 as we drive brand value creation and expand our presence in these markets. Our partnerships with Trulieve, Natura Life + Science and Gage Cannabis will further contribute to our expanded product distribution and improve our brand performance. With a strong cash balance to fuel our expansion into new states and growth in core markets, we are poised for meaningful growth in the remainder of the year."
Operational Highlights and Growth Drivers:
Capital efficiency: As of December 31, 2020 the Company consolidated the economics of Allied Concessions Group, Inc. ("ACG"), which led to improved gross margin.
Strategic Partnerships & Emerging Market Expansion: The Company is continuing to recalibrate or strengthen relationships in emerging markets to provide for sustainable and profitable growth. Recent highlights include:
California: The Company's Strategic Partnership with Natura Life + Science ("Natura") will allow the Company to re-enter the California market in a profitable way. Products, beginning with District Edibles (the previous best-selling gummy in CA), are expected to be available in Q2 2021.
Massachusetts: The Company has a Strategic Partnership with Trulieve Cannabis Corp. ("Trulieve") to supply branded products to the market. This is the second market in which SLANG and Trulieve will partner, building on the success that both companies have enjoyed in the Florida market. Massachusetts will mark the first time that both companies can partner on wholesale initiatives, which is a SLANG core competency. Products are expected in summer 2021.
Florida: SLANG products continue to be sold at all 81 Trulieve locations in Florida. The Company added O.pen Cured Resin to its Florida portfolio. The Company expects District Edibles gummies in sweet and sour formulations to launch in Q2 2021.
Michigan: SLANG's Strategic Partnership with Gage Cannabis, signed in Q2 2020, is expected to bring branded products to the Michigan market in Q3 2021.
Oklahoma: SLANG products are now available in over 90 stores in the Oklahoma market. Sales in Oklahoma were in part driven by District Edibles gummies in both sweet and sour formulations. O.Pen Cured Resin is also set to launch in Oklahoma in Q2 2021.
Washington: The Company has a Strategic Partnership with Snowcrest, LLC to supply branded products to the market. The Company is expected to bring branded products to market in Q3 2021.
Canada: In Q1 2021, the Company's O.pen and Firefly Mini line of products became available in Ontario. The FireflyMini has been ranked as the #1 selling disposable vape for several weeks in Q1 2021.
Key Performance Indicators: Excluding California, the Company showed considerable growth. 747,927 Branded Units were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 44% compared with 520,239 Branded Units sold in Q1 2020; and 56.5 million Branded Servings were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 23% compared with 46 million Branded Servings sold in Q1 2020. Including California, 748,079 Branded Units were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 18% compared with 634,751 Branded Units sold in Q1 2020; and 56.5 million Branded Servings were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 5% compared with 53.8 million Branded Servings sold in Q1 2020. The Company saw a 169% increase in branded unit volume in Oregon and expects California sales to pick up in Q2 2021 with its strategic partnership with Natura. In markets where units are down but servings are up, this generally is a result of consumer preference shifting from .5g carts to 1g carts, which contain a higher number of servings.
Product Diversification: The Company is bringing new product SKUs to market through the launch of additional brands in new product verticals and the expansion of existing product lines. During the first quarter, the Company entered into a strategic partnership to manufacture and distribute cannabis products for Flower by Edie Parker. The SLANG-manufactured products launched in Colorado in early 2021, with the potential to expand into additional markets over time.
Brand Leadership: SLANG's brands continued to earn market-leading positions in its core markets in the first quarter of 2021. Highlights include: O.pen ranked as the #1 vape cartridge in Colorado and #12 in Oregon; Firefly Mini was the #5 and O.pen was the #4 disposable vaporizer in Colorado; Bakked was the #5 dabbable distillate in Oregon and #5 in Colorado; District Edibles was the #12 gummy in Colorado and Lunchbox Alchemy was the #8 gummy in Oregon; Pressies was the #4 pill in Colorado. (Source: BDSA.)
First Quarter 2021 Corporate Development Update
SLANG continued to grow in its core markets of Colorado and Oregon.
Nationwide, Slang launched a new e-commerce platform, through which its best-selling CBD gummies, Lunchbox Alchemy CBD, are now available for purchase online. Production and fulfilment of all e-commerce orders will be handled in-house through SLANG's Oregon and Colorado infrastructure that was acquired in 2020.
In Colorado, Slang signed a strategic partnership agreement with Avér Skin to manufacture, co-package and distribute cannabis-based skincare products, with the potential to expand into additional markets over time.
First Quarter 2021 Financial Review
The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with IFRS. The following is selected presentation of the Income Statement for the quarter end March 31, 2021:
3 monthsended31-Mar-21
3 monthsended31-Mar-20
(In thousands except per share data and percentages)
CDN$
CDN$
Net Operating Revenue
$9,923
$4,690
Cost of goods sold*
6,224
1,836
Gross profit before gain on fair value of biological assets
3,699
2,854
Realized fair value amounts included in inventory sold
26
-
Unrealized gain on changes in fair value of biological assets
(11)
-
Gross Profit
3,714
2,854
Gross Profit Margin
37%
61%
Operating expenses
10,322
10,782
Operating Loss
(6,608)
(7,928)
Other items (Impairment, FV adjustment, FX, gains/losses, taxes, etc.)
2,468
($31,069)
Total Comprehensive Income / (Loss)
($9,076)
$23,141
Earnings Per Share
Basic
($0.02)
$0.08
Diluted
($0.02)
$0.07
Non-IFRS Measures
EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted Gross Profit Margin, Branded Unit volume and Branded Servings volume are non-IFRS financial measures that the Company uses to assess its operating performance. EBITDA is defined as net earnings (loss) before net finance costs, income tax expense (benefit) and depreciation and amortization expense. Management defines Adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA adjusted for other non-cash items such as the impact of unrealized fair values, share based compensation expense, impairments, one-time gains and losses, and one-time revenues and expenses. Management defines Adjusted Gross Profit and Adjusted Gross Margin as gross profit and gross margin adjusted for inventory fair value adjustments and fair value changes of biological assets. See the heading "Key Performance Indicators" in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2021 (the "Q1 2021 MD&A") for a description of how each of Branded Unit volume and Branded Servings volume is calculated. This data is furnished to provide additional information and are non-IFRS measures and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. The Company uses these non-IFRS measures to provide shareholders and others with supplemental measures of its operating performance. The Company also believes that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties, frequently use these non-IFRS measures in the evaluation of companies, many of which present similar metrics when reporting their results. As other companies may calculate these non-IFRS measures differently than the Company, these metrics may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. We caution readers that Adjusted EBITDA should not be substituted for determining net loss as an indicator of operating results, or as a substitute for cash flows from operating and investing activities.
3 monthsended31-Mar-21
3 monthsended31-Mar-20
(In thousands except per share data and percentages)
CDN
CDN
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)
($9,076)
$23,141
EBITDA
(4,609)
(6,347)
Adjusted EBITDA
(959)
(2,704)
See the Q1 2021 MD&A for a detailed reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Operating Income / (Loss). SLANG's financial statements and the Q1 2021 MD&A are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on the Company's Investor Relations website at www.slangww.com.
Conference Call Details
Management plans to host an investor conference call today, May 27, 2021, at 10:00 am EDT to discuss the results.
Timing:
Thursday, May 27, 2021 at 10:00 am EDT
Dial-in:
+1.833-529-0214 (U.S. toll free) or +1.236-389-2114 (international) or+1.647-689-6824 (international)
ConferenceID:
9672407
Webcast:
A live webcast can be accessed from the Investors section of Company's website at www.slangww.comor at this link.
A replay of the webcast will be archived on the Company's website for one year.
Media and Investor Inquiries Investors@SLANGww.com
KCSA Strategic Communications Phil Carlson / Elizabeth BarkerSLANG@kcsa.com
About SLANG Worldwide Inc.
SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.
To be added to SLANG's email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com with "SLNG" in the subject.
Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements included in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the Company's prospects and the distribution of the Company's branded products in its core and emerging markets, the proposed acquisition of ACG and ongoing consolidation of its supply chain in core markets and the impact thereof.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings "Risk Factors" in SLANG's annual information form dated April 13, 2021and "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Q1 2021 MD&A and other disclosure document available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.
Third Party Information
This news release includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third party sources, including industry publications. The Company believes that the industry data is accurate and that its estimates and assumptions are reasonable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of this data. Third party sources generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. Although the data is believed to be reliable, the Company has not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this press release or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources.
1 Branded Units Sold and Branded Servings exclude sales in the California market, which the Company exited in 2020.2 This includes acquisition or consolidation of LBA Global Corporation (now renamed Slang Oregon, Inc.), Peoria Partners, LLC (now renamed Slang Colorado Distribution, LLC), Pleasant Valley Ranch LLC (now renamed Slang Colorado Cultivation, Inc.) and Allied Concessions Group, Inc.
Press Release
SLANG Worldwide Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2020 Financial Results
Revenue of $9.7 million in Q4 2020, a 22% increase over Q3 2020 and an 11% increase over Q4 2019
Cash and cash equivalents of $6.5 million at year-end; $12.4 million[1] as of March 31, 2021
Q1 2021 revenue expected to be approximately $9.9 million, a 112% increase compared with $4.7 million in Q1 2020*
Strong brand performance, with approximately 706,437 branded units sold in Q4 2020 (a 22% increase over Q4 2019), containing over 56 million branded servings in Q4 2020 (a 17% increase over Q4 2019)[2]
Re-entered California market through strategic partnership with Natura Life + Science, products expected to be available in Q2 2021
Re-entered Massachusetts markets through strategic partnership with Trulieve Cannabis Corp., products expected to be available in Q3 2021
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 29, 2021) - SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CNSX: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) ("SLANG" or the "Company"), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods (CPG) company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, today released audited financial results for the full year and three months ended December 31, 2020. The Company previously announced preliminary results for the same periods on April 6, 2021. All figures in this press release are stated in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.
Key Financial and Operational Highlights
Financial Highlights:
Revenue for full year 2020 was $26.8 million, compared with $29.2 million in FY 2019. Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2020 was $9.7 million, an increase of 22% compared to Q3 2020 revenue of $7.9 million and an increase of 11% compared to $8.7 million in Q4 2019. The primary driver of sequential growth was a rebound in demand in the Company's core markets of Colorado and Oregon. Similar strength in the Company's emerging markets also contributed to sequential growth, as did the successful launch of new products including Lunchbox Alchemy CBD.
Gross profit of $12.8 million (48% gross margin) in FY 2020, compared with $13.1 million (45% gross margin) in FY 2019. Gross profit of $3.2 million (33% gross margin) in Q4 2020, compared with $5.5 million (63% gross margin) in Q4 2019. The decrease in margin is a result of two key drivers: i) product mix as the Company increased sales through its emerging markets and ii) due to not fully consolidating the economics of our Colorado manufacturing partner until January 1, 2021, our Q4 cost of goods sold reflect finished product purchases at wholesale prices rather than manufacturers cost.
The Company identified and recognized annualized savings of approximately $8.5 million.
Adjusted EBITDA (LBITDA) of ($5.5 million) in FY 2020, compared with ($5.6 million) in FY 2019. Adjusted EBTIDA (LBITDA) of ($1.1 million) in Q4 2020, compared with ($1.5 million) in Q4 2019.
Total Comprehensive Loss of $34 million in Q4 2020, compared with $208 million in Q4 2019. Total Comprehensive Loss for FY 2020 was $15 million, compared with $202 million in FY 2019.
$6.5 million of cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2020, compared to $8.9 million at December 31, 2019. Subsequent to the quarter end, the Company completed a private placement for $11.9 million. Unaudited cash and cash equivalents were $12.4 million as of March 31, 2021.
Unaudited Q1 2021 revenue is expected to be approximately $9.9 million, a 112% increase compared with $4.7 million in Q1 2020*
Chris Driessen, CEO of SLANG, said, "We demonstrated growth, with fourth quarter revenue of $9.7 million, a 22% increase over $7.9 million in Q3 2020 and an 11% increase over $8.7 million in Q4 2019. This strong fourth quarter performance followed a year of corporate repositioning to implement a capital efficient and scalable strategy to drive improved topline and bottom-line results. This included the decision to reposition California as an emerging market, not a core market, and other cost reductions implemented over several quarters. While this strategy resulted in lower revenues in the start of the year as we scaled down certain operations, it enabled us to significantly reduce our cost base, streamline operations, and establish a leaner, more efficient business. In the second half of the year, it started to pay off and we generated higher sales, primarily driven by our assets in the core Colorado and Oregon markets. We are very pleased with this progress, and expect to see a continued improvement in our financial results throughout 2021.
"The growth strategy in our core markets of Colorado and Oregon is centered around continuing to build the market share of our brands and consolidating supply chain assets in order to strengthen unit economics. To achieve this, we will continue to vertically integrate the supply chain to include cultivation, manufacturing, distribution and wholesale. In Colorado, our acquisitions of Peoria Partners (now renamed Slang Colorado Distribution or SCD), and Pleasant Valley Ranch (now renamed Slang Colorado Cultivation or SCC), and in Oregon our acquisition of LBA Global Corporation, are enabling us to recognize higher topline, wholesale revenue. With the consolidation of these supply chain assets, together with the pending acquisition of Allied Concessions Group, Inc. ("ACG") once closed, we also expect to see stronger gross margins in 2021 when compared to Q4 2020.
"As part of our cost reduction strategy, we pivoted our core markets of California, Massachusetts and Michigan to become emerging markets via our asset-light strategy of forming strategic partnerships with top operators in these states. Emerging market sales are expected to continue to increase as we drive brand value creation and expand our presence in these markets. During the year, we made strong progress executing against this strategy by signing agreements with partners including Trulieve, Natura Life + Science and Gage Cannabis. These are expected to further improve our brand performance by expanding our product distribution and driving Branded Units and Branded Servings.
Mr. Driessen concluded, "We entered 2021 with very strong operations to accelerate our growth. Going forward, SLANG will be fully consolidating the economics of our recent acquisitions. Subsequent to the year end, we closed a private placement for $11.9 million, which provides us with the financial flexibility to execute against our growth strategy, including expansion into new states, and build value for shareholders."
Operational Highlights and Growth Drivers
Path to Profitability: The Company made strong progress throughout the year accelerating its path to profitability by identifying cost-reduction opportunities, including a rebalancing of the workforce and continued optimization of SLANG Network relationships, and consolidating its supply chain assets. This is reflected in the significantly improved net loss for FY 2020 and Q4 2020, when compared with the same periods in the prior year. As of January 1st the Company will be consolidating the economics of ACG.
Strategic Partnerships & Emerging Market Expansion: The Company is continuing to recalibrate or strengthen relationships in emerging markets to provide for sustainable and profitable growth. Recent highlights include:
California: In 2020, the Company made the decision to reposition its focus from a core market to an emerging market, in order to reduce costs and streamline operations. In the fourth quarter, the Company entered into a Strategic Partnership with Natura Life + Science ("Natura"). This partnership allows the Company to re-enter the California market in a profitable way. The size and scope of the infrastructure at Natura's Sacramento facility allows for multiple product lines to be produced in volumes sufficient to support the California market, the largest in the United States. Products, beginning with District Edibles (the previous best-selling gummy in CA), are expected to be available in Q2 2021.
Massachusetts: The Company re-entered the Massachusetts market through its Strategic Partnership with Trulieve Cannabis Corp. ("Trulieve") to supply branded products, which was signed in the third quarter. This is the second market in which SLANG and Trulieve will partner, building on the success that both companies have enjoyed in the Florida market. Massachusetts will mark the first time that both companies can partner on wholesale initiatives, which is a SLANG core competency. Products are expected in summer 2021.
Florida: SLANG products continue to be sold at all 81 Trulieve locations in Florida. The Company has added O.pen Cured Resin and Firefly Dry Herb Vaporizers to its Florida portfolio. The Company expects District Edibles gummies in sweet and sour formulations to launch in Q2 2021. Branded Unit Sales increased by 4,832 to 103,232 in Q4 2020 compared with 98,400 in Q4 2019; Branded Servings Volume increased by 35,040 to 7,235,040 in Q4 2020 compared with 7,200,000 in Q4 2019.
Michigan: SLANG's Strategic Partnership with Gage Growth Corp., signed in Q2 2020, is expected to bring branded products to the Michigan market in Q3 2021.
Oklahoma: SLANG products are now available in over 90 stores in the Oklahoma market. District Edibles gummies in both sweet and sour formulations are now available in the state. O.Pen Cured Resin is also set to launch in Oklahoma in Q2 2021.
Canada: SLANG's minority-owned licensed producer, Agripharm Corp. began selling branded products in British Columbia and also signed a supply agreement with the Province of Ontario. Subsequent to quarter end, the Company's O.pen and Firefly Mini line of products became available in Ontario. The Firefly Mini is one of the top selling disposable vapes in Ontario per the OCS.
Key Performance Indicators: Excluding California, the Company showed considerable growth. 706,437 Branded Units were sold in Q4, an increase of 22% compared with 578,341 Branded Units sold in Q4 2019; and 56 million Branded Servings were sold in Q4 2020, an increase of 17% compared with 48 million Branded Servings sold in Q4 2019. Including California, 708,752 Branded Units sold in Q4 2020, compared with 821,962 Branded Units sold in Q4 2019; 56 million Branded Servings sold in Q4 2020, compared with 60 million Branded Servings sold in Q4 2019. The decline in volumes in 2020 compared with 2019 was due to the Company's decision to pivot California to an emerging market, as part of its strategy to refocus operations and improve its cost structure. The Company expects to re-enter California in Q2 2021 with its strategic partnership with Natura. In markets where units are down but servings are up, this generally is a result of consumer preference shifting from .5g carts to 1g carts, which contain a higher number of servings.
Product Diversification: The Company brought new product SKUs to market in 2020 through the launch of additional brands in new product verticals and the expansion of existing product lines, including introducing Bakked Gyro live resin dabbing solution in the fourth quarter. This follows the introduction of O.pen Live Resin cartridges to the Colorado market. Subsequent to the quarter end, the Company entered into a strategic partnership to manufacture and distribute cannabis products for Flower by Edie Parker. The SLANG-manufactured products launched in Colorado in early 2021, with the potential to expand into additional markets over time.
Brand Leadership: SLANG's brands continued to earn market-leading positions in its core markets in the fourth quarter of 2020. Highlights include: O.pen ranked as the #1 vape cartridge in Colorado for the sixth year running and #12 in Oregon; Firefly Mini was the #4 disposable vaporizer in Colorado; Bakked was the #6 dabbable distillate in Colorado; District Edibles was the #13 gummy in Colorado; Lunchbox Alchemy was the #9 gummy in Oregon; Pressies was the #4 pill in Colorado. (Source: BDSA.)
Fourth Quarter Corporate Development Update
In late 2020, SLANG's business model considerably shifted and simplified due to the successful execution of its strategy to consolidate its network of licensed cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, distributors and e-commerce distribution platforms in its core markets of Colorado and Oregon.
On October 1, 2020, SLANG completed its acquisition of LBA Global Corporation ("LBA") and its Lunchbox Alchemy brand portfolio and subsidiary Lunchbox Distribution. LBA is engaged in the business of developing and manufacturing edible and consumable products in the recreational and medical cannabis in Oregon along with national distribution of CBD products which can be found in over 600 stores across the US.
On December 22, 2020, the Company acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding equity interests of Colorado-licensed cannabis cultivator Pleasant Valley Ranch, LLC ("Pleasant Valley") for a non-material amount of cash and 500,000 restricted voting shares of the Company. Pleasant Valley's operations are located in Carbondale, Colorado and specialize in high quality, organically grown cannabis strains that thrive in high altitude, mountainous environments.
These acquisitions follow the acquisition of the licensed cannabis producer and distributor, Peoria Partners LLC ("Peoria") in Q3 2020. Peoria is the state-licensed manufacturer and distributor of SLANG's District Edibles brand in Colorado. The Company intends to continue to use Peoria's Denver facilities for the manufacture of District Edibles and for the distribution of the full suite of SLANG-branded products within Colorado. The Company renamed the entity to Slang Colorado Distribution Inc.
The Company also acquired the assets of Cultivate Brands Corp ("Cultivate") in the second quarter of 2020, a company with a strong cash position and other complementary assets.
Full Year 2020 Financial Review
The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with IFRS. The following is selected presentation of the Income Statement for the year end December 31, 2020:
3 monthsended31-Dec-20
3 monthsended31-Dec-19
12 monthsended31-Dec-20
12 monthsended31-Dec-19
(In thousands except per share data and percentages)
CDN$
CDN$
CDN$
CDN$
Net Operating Revenue
$9,658
$8,716
$26,820
$29,229
Cost of goods sold*
6,524
3,253
14,028
16,094
Gross profit before gain on fair value of biological assets
3,134
5,463
12,792
13,135
Unrealized gain on changes in fair value of biological assets
30
-
30
-
Gross Profit
3,164
5,463
12,822
13,135
Gross Profit Margin
33%
63%
48%
45%
Operating expenses
6,493
32,814
35,645
72,811
Operating Loss
(3,329)
(27,351)
(22,823)
(59,676)
Impairment
4,122
128,625
4,122
223,991
Share of loss of investment
254
1,633
2,023
2,174
Financing cost and FV adjustment
27,074
78,456
(12,271)
(51,556)
Unrealized exchange gain
1,995
1,234
802
467
Gain (loss) on sale of capital assets
5
-
(406)
-
Gain on bargain purchase
-
-
(397)
-
Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes
(36,779)
(237,299)
(16,696)
(234,752)
Income taxes
3
22
3
41
Deferred taxes (recovery)
(2,638)
(29,926)
(2,638)
(34,456)
Net Income (Loss) For Period
(34,144)
(207,395)
(14,061)
(200,337)
Exchange on translation of foreign operations
(354)
(393)
(531)
(1,811)
Total Comprehensive Loss
($34,498)
($207,788)
($14,592)
($202,148)
Earnings Per Share
Basic
(0.09)
(0.78)
(0.04)
(0.87)
Diluted
(0.09)
(0.78)
(0.04)
(0.87)
Gross Margin
Below is the gross profit margin from operations for the year ended December 31, 2020:
3 months ended31-Dec-20
3 months ended31-Dec-19
12 months ended31-Dec-20
12 months ended31-Dec-19
(In thousands except per share data and percentages)
CDN
CDN
CDN
CDN
Net Operating Revenue
$9,658
$8,716
$26,820
$29,229
Cost of goods sold
6,524
3,253
14,028
16,094
Inventory fair value adjustment
-
-
-
(2,419)
Unrealized gain on changes in fair value of biological assets
(30)
-
(30)
-
Adjusted Gross Profit
$3,164
$5,463
$12,822
$15,554
Adjusted Gross Margin
33%
63%
48%
53%
Non-IFRS Measures
EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted Gross Profit Margin, Branded Unit volume and Branded Servings volume are non-IFRS financial measures that the Company uses to assess its operating performance. EBITDA is defined as net earnings (loss) before net finance costs, income tax expense (benefit) and depreciation and amortization expense. Management defines Adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA adjusted for other non-cash items such as the impact of unrealized fair values, share based compensation expense, impairments, one-time gains and losses, and one-time revenues and expenses. Management defines Adjusted Gross Profit and Adjusted Gross Margin as gross profit and gross margin adjusted for inventory fair value adjustments and fair value changes of biological assets. See the heading "Operations Overview - Branded Volume" in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2020 (the "2020 MD&A") for a description of how each of Branded Unit volume and Branded Servings volume is calculated. This data is furnished to provide additional information and are non-IFRS measures and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. The Company uses these non-IFRS measures to provide shareholders and others with supplemental measures of its operating performance. The Company also believes that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties, frequently use these non-IFRS measures in the evaluation of companies, many of which present similar metrics when reporting their results. As other companies may calculate these non-IFRS measures differently than the Company, these metrics may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. We caution readers that Adjusted EBITDA should not be substituted for determining net loss as an indicator of operating results, or as a substitute for cash flows from operating and investing activities.
3 months ended31-Dec-20
3 months ended31-Dec-19
12 months ended31-Dec-20
12 months ended31-Dec-19
(In thousands except per share data and percentages)
CDN
CDN
CDN
CDN
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)
($34,498)
($207,788)
($14,592)
($202,148)
EBITDA
(1,532)
(21,607)
(16,228)
(38,646)
Adjusted EBITDA
(1,108)
(1,546)
(5,526)
(5,575)
See the Company's 2020 MD&A for a detailed reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Operating Income / (Loss). SLANG's financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the 2020 MD&A are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on the Company's Investor Relations website at www.slangww.com.
Conference Call Details
Management plans to host an investor conference call today, April 29, 2021, at 10:00 am EDT to discuss the results.
Timing:
Thursday, April 29, 2021 at 10:00 am EDT
Dial-in:
+1.844-200-6205 (U.S. toll free) or +1.646-904-5544 (U.S. local) or +44.208-0682-558 (international)
Access Code:
071910
Webcast:
A live webcast can be accessed from the Investors section of Company's website at www.slangww.com or at this link.A replay of the webcast will be archived on the Company's website for one year.
Notes:*These preliminary and unaudited financial results are subject to customary financial statement procedures by the Company. Actual results could be affected by subsequent events or determinations. While the Company believes there is a reasonable basis for these preliminary financial results, the results involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. These preliminary fiscal results represent forward-looking information. See "Forward-Looking Statements" and "Financial Outlook".
Media and Investor Inquiries Investors@SLANGww.com
KCSA Strategic Communications Phil Carlson / Elizabeth BarkerSLANG@kcsa.com
About SLANG Worldwide Inc.SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.
Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements included in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the Company's expected performance in Q1 2021, the distribution of the Company's branded products in emerging markets, the proposed acquisition of ACG and ongoing consolidation of its supply chain in core markets and the impact thereof.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings "Risk Factors" in SLANG's annual information form dated April 13, 2021and "Risks and Uncertainties" in the 2020 MD&A and other disclosure document available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.
Financial Outlook
This news release contains a financial outlook within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. The financial outlook has been prepared by management of the Company to provide an outlook for the first quarter of 2021 and may not be appropriate for any other purpose. The financial outlook has been prepared based on a number of assumptions including the assumptions discussed in this press release and assumptions with respect to market conditions, pricing, and demand. The actual results of the Company's operations for any period will likely vary from the amounts set forth in these projections and such variations may be material. The Company and its management believe that the financial outlook has been prepared on a reasonable basis. However, because this information is highly subjective and subject to numerous risks, including the risks discussed under the heading "Forward-Looking Statements", it should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results.
Third Party Information
This news release includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third party sources, including industry publications. The Company believes that the industry data is accurate and that its estimates and assumptions are reasonable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of this data. Third party sources generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. Although the data is believed to be reliable, the Company has not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this press release or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources.
[1] Unaudited[2] Branded Units Sold and Branded Servings exclude sales in the California market, which the Company exited in 2020.