Thank you for Subscribing to Cannabis Business Insights Weekly Brief
Imagine a world where every cannabis product feels as though it were crafted just for you—made with care, purpose, and a story as unique as the consumer holding it.
This is the future The 1937 Group, a minority-owned, vertically integrated cannabis company based in Chicago, is bringing to life.
In an industry saturated with competition, The 1937 Group stands out as a company prioritizing people over products. By fostering personal, authentic, and meaningful connections, the company embodies a movement rooted in innovation, transparency, and trust. It focuses on building a lasting culture that redefines how consumers experience cannabis.
“For us, cannabis is more than just a product; it is a transformative tool for healing, opportunity, and equity. Our mission goes beyond selling products,” says Ambrose Jackson, CEO and founder. “We’re here to create brands that connect with people’s values, build trust, and become part of their everyday lives.”
Brand Building Powerhouse
What sets The 1937 Group apart is its methodical and meticulous approach to brand development.
Alex Al-Sabah, Chief Strategy Officer, explains, “Our strategy is centered on creating brands that resonate deeply with consumers. We’ve deliberately catered to diverse demographics and developed a wide variety of products and SKUs.”
Further, the company’s dedication to quality and sustainability shines through in every stage of its operations. From cultivation to distribution, The 1937 Group ensures precision and care, offering products such as pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, and premium flower, all crafted to the highest standards.
One example is Kush League, a sports-themed cannabis brand that bridges the gap between sports culture and cannabis culture. Designed by athletes and wellness enthusiasts, Kush League’s products incorporate wellness ingredients such as vitamins C and B12, supporting physical recovery while promoting a healthy lifestyle. Even the packaging reflects the brand’s athletic aesthetic, resembling mini shoeboxes to evoke the excitement of an exclusive sneaker drop.
Other standout brands include Higher Self, which focuses on intentional cannabis consumption to improve mental health and wellness. The brand offers products like two-pack pre-rolls (available in infused and non-infused varieties), multi-pack minis, larger flower quantities for affordability, and showcasing new technology with its 1 and 2 gram Vape Stone device. Terp Kings highlights the importance of terpenes in cannabis, emphasizing aroma and the “entourage effect” over THC potency. The brand features flower with unique terpene profiles and disposable vapes in flavors like dessert, floral, fruit, haze, and gas.
Additionally, the company’s brand Outfitters offers products such as two-gram blunts and a five-pack of “Luckies” cigarette-style pre-rolls. Through its partnership with Potli, The 1937 Group also delivers pantry-style cannabis products, including infused honey, sriracha, and ginger chews.
A Culture of Innovation
The 1937 Group’s relentless pursuit of innovation extends to research and development. “Consumers are always chasing the next hot product,” says Jackson. “We’re constantly evaluating the market and bringing new, exciting products to consumers.”
The company recently launched the Higher Self vape stone, a unique design inspired by river rocks, aligning with the brand’s focus on wellness and intentionality. The 1937 Group has penetrated over 180 stores in Illinois, out of approximately 215-220 dispensaries statewide, showcasing its widespread consumer appeal.
Strategic partnerships play a crucial role in The 1937 Group’s success. Collaborations with local retailers and social equity operators have expanded its reach and solidified its position as a trusted name in the Illinois market. The company’s retail presence, which includes three stores, is set to grow significantly in 2025, further enhancing its market penetration.
Shaping the Future of Cannabis and Equity
Looking ahead, The 1937 Group plans to enter new markets and explore international expansion opportunities. By partnering with social equity operators and leveraging its fully developed brand suite, the company aims to replicate its success in Illinois on a global scale.
Beyond business goals, The 1937 Group is deeply committed to social equity through its not-for-profit The 1937 Foundation. By addressing disparities caused by the War on Drugs, the company is rewriting the narrative of cannabis as a tool for growth and healing.
A Legacy of Empowerment
The 1937 Group proves that profitability can coexist with equity and sustainability. Through its purpose-driven approach, the company is reshaping the cannabis industry while paving the way for a future grounded in fairness and opportunity. Its journey has only just begun, but The 1937 Group’s unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and social equity positions it as a leader in the industry.
The 1937 Group remains focused on crafting a legacy defined by empowerment, sustainability, and purpose. Through its efforts, the company is shaping the future of cannabis and creating a world where business success aligns with social and environmental progress.
This is the future The 1937 Group, a minority-owned, vertically integrated cannabis company based in Chicago, is bringing to life.
In an industry saturated with competition, The 1937 Group stands out as a company prioritizing people over products. By fostering personal, authentic, and meaningful connections, the company embodies a movement rooted in innovation, transparency, and trust. It focuses on building a lasting culture that redefines how consumers experience cannabis.
“For us, cannabis is more than just a product; it is a transformative tool for healing, opportunity, and equity. Our mission goes beyond selling products,” says Ambrose Jackson, CEO and founder. “We’re here to create brands that connect with people’s values, build trust, and become part of their everyday lives.”Brand Building Powerhouse
What sets The 1937 Group apart is its methodical and meticulous approach to brand development.
Alex Al-Sabah, Chief Strategy Officer, explains, “Our strategy is centered on creating brands that resonate deeply with consumers. We’ve deliberately catered to diverse demographics and developed a wide variety of products and SKUs.”
Further, the company’s dedication to quality and sustainability shines through in every stage of its operations. From cultivation to distribution, The 1937 Group ensures precision and care, offering products such as pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, and premium flower, all crafted to the highest standards.
One example is Kush League, a sports-themed cannabis brand that bridges the gap between sports culture and cannabis culture. Designed by athletes and wellness enthusiasts, Kush League’s products incorporate wellness ingredients such as vitamins C and B12, supporting physical recovery while promoting a healthy lifestyle. Even the packaging reflects the brand’s athletic aesthetic, resembling mini shoeboxes to evoke the excitement of an exclusive sneaker drop.
We’re here to create brands that connect with people’s values, build trust, and become part of their everyday lives
Other standout brands include Higher Self, which focuses on intentional cannabis consumption to improve mental health and wellness. The brand offers products like two-pack pre-rolls (available in infused and non-infused varieties), multi-pack minis, larger flower quantities for affordability, and showcasing new technology with its 1 and 2 gram Vape Stone device. Terp Kings highlights the importance of terpenes in cannabis, emphasizing aroma and the “entourage effect” over THC potency. The brand features flower with unique terpene profiles and disposable vapes in flavors like dessert, floral, fruit, haze, and gas.
Additionally, the company’s brand Outfitters offers products such as two-gram blunts and a five-pack of “Luckies” cigarette-style pre-rolls. Through its partnership with Potli, The 1937 Group also delivers pantry-style cannabis products, including infused honey, sriracha, and ginger chews.
A Culture of Innovation
The 1937 Group’s relentless pursuit of innovation extends to research and development. “Consumers are always chasing the next hot product,” says Jackson. “We’re constantly evaluating the market and bringing new, exciting products to consumers.”
The company recently launched the Higher Self vape stone, a unique design inspired by river rocks, aligning with the brand’s focus on wellness and intentionality. The 1937 Group has penetrated over 180 stores in Illinois, out of approximately 215-220 dispensaries statewide, showcasing its widespread consumer appeal.
Strategic partnerships play a crucial role in The 1937 Group’s success. Collaborations with local retailers and social equity operators have expanded its reach and solidified its position as a trusted name in the Illinois market. The company’s retail presence, which includes three stores, is set to grow significantly in 2025, further enhancing its market penetration.
Shaping the Future of Cannabis and Equity
Looking ahead, The 1937 Group plans to enter new markets and explore international expansion opportunities. By partnering with social equity operators and leveraging its fully developed brand suite, the company aims to replicate its success in Illinois on a global scale.
Beyond business goals, The 1937 Group is deeply committed to social equity through its not-for-profit The 1937 Foundation. By addressing disparities caused by the War on Drugs, the company is rewriting the narrative of cannabis as a tool for growth and healing.
A Legacy of Empowerment
The 1937 Group proves that profitability can coexist with equity and sustainability. Through its purpose-driven approach, the company is reshaping the cannabis industry while paving the way for a future grounded in fairness and opportunity. Its journey has only just begun, but The 1937 Group’s unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and social equity positions it as a leader in the industry.
The 1937 Group remains focused on crafting a legacy defined by empowerment, sustainability, and purpose. Through its efforts, the company is shaping the future of cannabis and creating a world where business success aligns with social and environmental progress.
Company : The 1937 Group
ManagementAmbrose Jackson, CEO and Founder; Alex Al-Sabah, Chief Strategy Officer
