Old Pal, the popular cannabis brand known for its accessible and affordable products, is expanding its presence nationwide. CEO and co-founder Rusty Wilenkin, along with Jason Osni, established Old Pal in 2018 in Venice Beach, California. The brand offers pre-ground, “ready-to-roll” cannabis in bags reminiscent of tobacco pouches. With its elevated brand storytelling and strategic partnerships, Old Pal has become a case study in multi-state cannabis growth.
Old Pal has successfully collaborated with Land, a renowned design agency behind national brands like Mountain Valley Water and Stumptown Coffee. This partnership has helped Old Pal establish a strong brand presence and expand its reach across the country. The brand has even collaborated with Igloo Coolers, alongside Patagonia and REI.
Wilenkin, drawing from his industry experience, aimed to create a brand that was more accessible and affordable than the top-shelf products dominating the market. Old Pal’s success lies in meeting the demand for accessible and affordable cannabis, while also focusing on long-term growth and sustainability.
Currently, Old Pal products are available in 15 U.S. markets, including California, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Ohio, Arizona, Massachusetts, New York, and New Mexico. Wilenkin emphasizes the importance of building strong partnerships across the country and adapting to the evolving cannabis landscape.
Old Pal’s recent entry into the adult-use market in New York holds personal significance for Wilenkin, as it is his home state. He highlights the normalization of cannabis and the positive impact it can have on communities. Wilenkin’s vision is to see cannabis become as ubiquitous as alcohol, offering consumers a range of options to suit their preferences.
Old Pal is committed to dispelling myths around its products, particularly the misconception that its pre-ground cannabis is of lower quality. The brand emphasizes that its ground nugs are carefully selected and offer a high-quality experience. Old Pal also offers lifestyle products alongside its cannabis lineup.
While social media challenges remain a concern for cannabis companies, Old Pal has successfully leveraged platforms like TikTok and Instagram to reach a wide audience. The brand aims to provide consumers with a sense of care and uniqueness, challenging the notion that affordable cannabis is synonymous with inferior quality.
With its expansion into new markets like New Mexico and upcoming launches in Boston, Old Pal continues to offer accessible and high-quality cannabis products. Wilenkin’s dedication to creating a brand that resonates with consumers and promotes normalization of cannabis has been instrumental in Old Pal’s success.
