Founded in 1999, CHAMPS has become the nation’s premier B2B counterculture trade show. The summer edition returned to the Las Vegas Convention Center August 26‑28, delivering three days of networking, product launches and deal‑making to brands, retailers, artists and buyers.
The show’s footprint was smaller this year, but attendees said the energy remained high. Cannabis Now founder and CEO Eugenio Garcia, who has attended for more than a decade, walked the floor to gauge how the new layout affected business interactions.
One Level, Same Energy
CHAMPS consolidated from two floors to a single level this year, a change organizers say amplified the event’s intensity.
Garcia said the smaller footprint felt full and energetic, with genuine business conversations taking place.
William Rekel, founder of Blazy Susan, echoed the sentiment, noting the tighter space made the show feel more lively. He has attended for seven years and praised the condensed, busy atmosphere.
With booths concentrated on one floor, exhibitors and attendees interacted more closely, keeping the action focused in a single area. This layout shortened travel time and heightened engagement.
New Brands Still Placing Bets
Uncertainty over the impending federal ban on hemp‑derived THC kept several companies from exhibiting, but those who did show up brought strong momentum.
“You could see the uncertainty reflected in who wasn’t exhibiting,” Garcia said. “What stood out were the brands that showed up, especially new beverage entrants bullish about the industry’s future.”
Jolly, a CBD and hemp company, debuted with optimism, citing its East Coast DoorDash distribution. President and co‑founder Zach Gleason said regulation changes would not affect his growth plans.
Dallas‑based Lantana, a THC‑infused seltzer brand, made its CHAMPS debut, betting on a category other labels are defending. Founder Brad G. said the hemp beverage market is booming and expects cooler heads to prevail.
Blazy Susan, known for rolling papers, also entered the hemp beverage space, launching its first drink called Blazy. The move underscores the sector’s rapid expansion.
Business as Usual
The measured optimism extended to discussions about Nevada’s broader retail environment. Ayr Wellness chief revenue officer Julie Winter said the company will focus on offering trusted products at competitive prices.
At The Dispensary Henderson, long‑time staff have built strong relationships with regulars, and an express lane plus drive‑through pickup lets customers in and out within minutes.
Legacy Brands, New Collaborations
Established names remained active on the floor. Smoke Odor Candles attracted influencers and unveiled a collaboration with BIC lighters.
The Bottom Line
Overall, this year’s CHAMPS illustrated an industry adjusting in real time, with fewer exhibitors but sustained optimism. New brands launched, legacy companies introduced collaborations, and buyers continued to negotiate deals.
“The biggest takeaway was that despite industry challenges, people are still doing business,” Garcia said. “New brands launch, legacy firms innovate, and entrepreneurs place bets on the future.”
CHAMPS may have been smaller, but the hustle persisted.
The show moves to Austin October 13‑15, then Fort Lauderdale November 17‑19 to close the year.
