CPM | Crown

When the cannabis extraction industry first opened up, a wave of suppliers flooded the market. Despite having outdated equipment with operational inefficiencies, safety issues, and inconsistencies in product quality, these operators stayed in business due to high profit margins and abundant capital.

However, as the market becomes more competitive and with margins tightening, only the most resilient players—those with robust business models and high-quality, efficient systems—are able to thrive.

This is where Crown stands out in the demanding landscape, offering solutions that constantly meet evolving customer needs. Its technical expertise, R&D and full lifecycle approach provide clients guidance and support at every step, from feasibility, trials and custom processing to commercial-sized operations and aftermarket.

The company’s 75 years of legacy as a global leader in the oilseed extraction space have laid a solid foundation for its expansion into the cannabis and hemp markets. Now part of CPM Holdings, Inc., Crown benefits from a wealth of resources and a global network, further strengthening its ability to support operations and customers worldwide.

“Our systems are designed for continuous operation with minimal operator involvement, low operating costs, and high product consistency, addressing many of the safety and efficiency concerns prevalent in the industry,” says Alexander Danelich, global VP of sales.

The company's reputation as a pioneer in extraction technology is backed by numerous patents and innovations that address the gaps in the industry and add value to its clients. For instance, contrary to many existing systems that lack effective solvent recovery mechanisms, Crown leverages its expertise in solvent recovery from its oil seed product lines and applies it to the cannabis sector, providing comprehensive solvent recovery and making operations more economical and environmentally friendly.

Similarly, many systems require operators to manually handle and replace solvent-laden, heavy batches, exposing them to potential hazards. Crown addresses this by developing fully closed systems that eliminate direct exposure to solvents and extreme temperatures, significantly enhancing safety and reducing operational costs.

In addition to the company’s technical expertise, clients can benefit from its cutting-edge Global Innovation Center (GIC) to develop custom and cost-effective solutions that fine-tune their process while maximizing their opportunity to market with increased efficiencies.

Located in Minnesota, this fully functional 15,000 sq. ft. facility is a testament to Crown’s commitment to innovation and safety, giving clients access to real-world capabilities within a controlled, confidential environment. It is a best-in-class resource for preparation, extraction, refining, biofuel and renewable oleochemical equipment, connected to a comprehensive data collection system that offers piloting capabilities from benchtop lab scale to multiple tons per day of production.

Beyond the inherent benefits of all its offerings, the company’s real strength remains its lifecycle approach to business. Customers who choose Crown benefit from a comprehensive package that offers end-to-end service.

From the initial design and testing phase to ongoing support throughout the equipment’s lifespan, the company ensures its clients have a reliable partner in their extraction operations. This includes extensive support through a global aftermarket team and dedicated account managers who assist clients with spare parts, troubleshooting, breakdowns, and inspections. The company also excels in meeting local code requirements. Whether navigating Europe’s unique regulations for flammable solvents or adhering to varied shipping standards, Crown’s global presence guarantees compliance and efficient project execution every step of the way.

As the industry continues to evolve, the company stands ready to lead the way with its proven technology, extensive experience, and unwavering dedication to excellence.