Former AGCO chairman G.R. Randy Barber has agreed to license the Highlife brand name for a licensed cannabis retail store to be owned and operated by Barber pending a successful RSA (retail store authorization) application. Highlife previously retained Barber in 2019 as a consultant to assist the Company with matters relating to compliance and regulatory affairs. Barber will also resume providing advisory services to the Company.
TORONTO, March 5, 2020 /CNW/ – Highlife Cannabis Co. (“Highlife” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement to license its brand name and trade dress for a cannabis storefront set to be opened by G.R. Randy Barber, former chairman of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (“AGCO”). Highlife had previously engaged Barber as a consultant on a contract basis in 2019 to provide guidance and direction in areas of compliance and regulatory affairs. Under this agreement, Barber will have authorization to utilize the Highlife brand name and intellectual property at a licensed cannabis retail store under his ownership and administration. Further, Barber will act as a strategic advisor to the Company, providing assistance in navigating Ontario’s evolving regulatory landscape for cannabis.
Barber’s extensive background in government relations and regulation began at CallPro Canada, where he worked for sixteen years before being appointed vice-chair of the AGCO in 1997. Eventually, he took the helm as chairman in 2001. His experience at AGCO involved overseeing a board of thirteen members and handling around 300 disciplinary and public interest hearings each year throughout Ontario. Following his tenure at AGCO, Barber contributed to the Parole Board of Canada and later moved into a private sector role as vice president of government relations and regulations at Ontario Entertainment Technologies. He also served on the Social Security Tribunal of Canada from 2013 to 2018, further broadening his skills and understanding of regulatory frameworks.
Currently, Barber has met all eligibility criteria set by the AGCO to qualify for a retail operator license (ROL), which is crucial for applying for a retail store authorization (RSA). This RSA is a necessary step before he can open his Highlife-branded store. The application process includes identifying a suitable location for the proposed cannabis retail outlet, a task that Barber and Highlife are actively pursuing together.
The agreement between Highlife and Barber is contingent upon provincial regulatory approval, aligning with the stringent oversight characteristic of Ontario’s cannabis industry. This collaboration signals a partnership aimed not only at establishing a new retail presence but also at fostering a model of compliance and customer engagement in the cannabis space.
Eugene Konarev, Highlife’s CEO, expressed enthusiasm about Barber’s deep experience and former consultancy role. “Mr. Barber has played an integral role in our journey to date. His insights into compliance are invaluable, and we’re thrilled he will operate a licensed cannabis retail store under the Highlife name. This partnership reflects a significant vote of confidence in our brand and vision,” he commented. Highlife views this collaboration as pivotal in shaping its future and enhancing its reputation in the growing cannabis market.
Barber echoed this sentiment, stating, “My time as a consultant with Highlife showed me that they are much more than just a retailer; they act as an ambassador for Ontario’s recreational cannabis industry. Highlife is responsive to customer needs and offers a sleek, efficient shopping experience while championing responsible use through initiatives like Don’t Be Sorry. Their business model has all the right elements for success, and I’m proud to utilize the Highlife brand as I embark on this new venture.”
About Highlife Cannabis Co.
Highlife Cannabis Co is a privately-owned, recognized cannabis retail brand in Canada that puts a strong emphasis on customer experience. The company promotes safe and responsible cannabis use across Ontario, actively raising awareness through education campaigns. Their retail model is structured around customer-centric principles, prioritizing efficiency and scalability while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
SOURCE Highlife Cannabis Co.
For media inquiries please contact: Highlife Cannabis Co, 416-614-6602, [email protected], www.highlife.ca