Bob Marley’s Estate To Launch Marijuana Products

The late reggae artist Bob Marley famously spoke of “the herb.”  Now his family is creating a marijuana brand that will sell cannabis and similar products.

The cannabis-focused private equity firm Privateer Holdings, along with Marley’s estate, announced today the launch of Marley Natural, a company based in New York City.  By the end of 2015 the company will have three categories of products—heirloom cannabis, topicals and accessories. 

Marley Natural’s general manager, Tahira Rehmatullah, said the cannabis will be available in states where it is legal.  Today, 23 states, the District of Columbia and Guam allow public medical marijuana and cannabis programs.  Only Colorado and Washington permit recreational use.  “Laws are changing rapidly, so we’ll be keeping a close eye on them.”

Yet there are critics of the venture.  “This is ‘Big Marijuana’ at its worst,” said Kevin Sabet, professor at the University of Florida and former White House senior drug policy advisor.  “This is further evidence that legalizing marijuana isn’t about getting people out of jail or letting adults smoke in their home: it’s about today’s corporate CEOs making millions.  This is very troubling, but it confirms our biggest fears.” 

Rehmatulla, however, says that the product will come with strong packaging and an emphasis on responsibility.  “We want to offer a high quality product that’s safe for consumers.  We’re hoping this will add a new professional level to the cannabis industry.”

See Susanna Kim, Marijuana Products Under Bob Marley’s Estate To Launch Next Year, ABC News, Nov. 18, 2014.