Telemedicine and Medical Cannabis – Progress or Risk?
Telemedicine: An Opportunity or a Challenge?
While medical cannabis is becoming increasingly destigmatized, some telemedicine services have recently come under scrutiny. In particular, concerns have been raised about the practice of issuing prescriptions based solely on an online questionnaire without direct doctor-patient interaction, raising fears of misuse. However, it is important to recognize that telemedicine has become an integral part of healthcare in many areas, offering enormous benefits to countless patients.
Telemedicine allows for quick and convenient medical consultations — especially in rural regions where specialist shortages are a pressing issue. For chronically ill patients who rely on continuous treatment, digital access to healthcare can be a major relief.
At the same time, concerns about compliance with existing regulations and quality assurance are valid. However, rather than questioning telemedicine as a whole, the discussion should focus on how to ensure proper enforcement of existing rules to safeguard both patient protection and the integrity of medical care.
A Balanced Perspective on the Debate
This debate highlights that a targeted regulatory response should not be limited to medical cannabis alone but should consider telemedicine as a healthcare model in general. There are already established legal frameworks, such as the EU Patient Mobility Directive and the Medicinal Products Advertising Act (Heilmittelwerbegesetz – HWG), which set standards for safe and regulated cross-border access to telemedical services.
The concerns surrounding telemedicine demonstrate that new digital healthcare models are not inherently problematic but require clear guidelines to ensure safe and high-quality applications. Medical cannabis is not the only field where telemedical services are playing an increasingly important role—this issue affects the entire healthcare sector.
Regulate Telemedicine Sensibly, Not Demonize It
The political debate should focus on how telemedicine can be responsibly utilized rather than portraying it as a problem in itself.
A rational, solution-oriented discussion is needed—one that involves patients, doctors, and policymakers alike.
Modern, digital healthcare solutions offer substantial benefits—not just for medical cannabis but for numerous other prescription medications.
The key challenge is to strengthen and enforce existing regulations while further developing policies that ensure quality and safety for all patients.
Anything else?
Do you have specific questions or suggestions for the Cannabis Briefing? Then send us an email to briefing@cansativa.de. If you are interested in revolutionising the cannabis industry with us, then stay tuned and follow our briefings!
We wish you a good read!
Best wishes from both of us,

Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa

Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa
Green Rush or Consolidation? The German Medical Cannabis Market in Focus
Since the legalization of medical cannabis in Germany in 2017, the industry has seen rapid growth. Yet, while some describe the current phase as a “Green Rush,” reminiscent of developments in the United States, others wonder whether the market is already moving toward consolidation. This debate is becoming increasingly relevant against the backdrop of political uncertainties and regulatory changes.
Understanding the “Green Rush”
The term “Green Rush” originated in the United States in 2012 when Washington and Colorado became the first states to legalize cannabis. This economic surge attracted entrepreneurs and investors eager to seize new market opportunities, drawing comparisons to the historical Gold Rush. Similarly, in Germany, the cannabis industry experienced significant momentum, especially following the removal of medical cannabis from the Narcotics Act (BtMG) in April 2024. This reform not only simplified the prescribing process and reduced bureaucratic barriers but also fueled industry growth.
From Disillusionment to Renewed Momentum
When Germany’s coalition government announced plans for comprehensive cannabis legalization in its 2021 coalition agreement, it sparked enthusiasm and optimism across the industry. Many businesses began preparing for a rapidly expanding market that would encompass both medical and recreational cannabis.
However, by late 2022, it became increasingly evident that the proposed legalization would not materialize as initially envisioned. Industry expectations were tempered, leading to a sense of disillusionment. Some observers even predicted an impending consolidation.
These concerns were alleviated with the removal of medical cannabis from the Narcotics Act in April 2024, which opened up new growth opportunities. Yet, challenges remain: the implementation of commercial supply chains (Pillar II) is urgently needed to adequately support the now-legal recreational market while maintaining clear separation from medical use.
Regulatory Uncertainty and Political Challenges
Today, the German cannabis market remains dynamic and continues to grow. Insights shared at the Executive Summit in Berlin two weeks ago highlighted key challenges and opportunities. For instance, only 20% of the population currently knows that medical cannabis is available as a treatment option. Raising awareness and destigmatizing cannabis remains essential to unlock the market’s untapped potential. At this stage, collaboration between industry players is more important than competition. Joint efforts are needed to educate the public and foster market development.
The consensus among experts is clear: it is too early for consolidation. The market remains vibrant, with room for innovation, growth, and new entrants. However, the looming federal election has created uncertainty about the future of cannabis regulation. The past has demonstrated that stable regulatory frameworks are critical for sustained market growth. Germany’s medical cannabis sector is still young and requires long-term perspectives to provide much-needed planning security. The upcoming government transition raises the question of whether recent progress will be preserved or if the market risks being rolled back to its state before April 1, 2024—a scenario that would create significant challenges for both the industry and patients.
A look abroad reveals a noticeable global shift in attitudes toward cannabis. In many countries, cannabis is increasingly being recognized as a legitimate medical treatment, leading to a globally rising demand. Germany has the potential to remain a leader in Europe. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the path toward a stable and innovative future for the German cannabis industry.
Anything else?
Do you have specific questions or suggestions for the Cannabis Briefing? Then send us an email to briefing@cansativa.de. If you are interested in revolutionising the cannabis industry with us, then stay tuned and follow our briefings!
We wish you a good read!
Best wishes from both of us,

Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa

Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa
Looking Back on 'Yes, We Can Cannabizz' – An Evening Shaping the Future of Medical Cannabis
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, we hosted our exclusive event “Yes, we can Cannabizz” in Berlin—a gathering that brought together top leaders from the cannabis industry, medical professionals, patients, and pharmacists. With nearly 100 guests, the event provided a unique platform to explore the opportunities and challenges facing both the German and international cannabis markets.
For those who couldn’t attend, here’s a recap of the day’s highlights. Against the backdrop of political uncertainty and an impending government transition, the event underscored one clear message: collaboration across all stakeholders is essential to safeguard the progress made over the past months and actively shape the future of medicinal cannabis in Germany.
Event Highlights
Yes, we can Cannabizz: Berner, CEO of Cookies, and Transatlantic Perspectives
The event kicked off with a compelling business panel featuring Berner, founder and CEO of Cookies, alongside Jakob and Benedikt Sons from Cansativa Group. Moderated by Bijan Hezarkhani, the discussion offered attendees an exclusive look into the experiences of a global cannabis market leader. Since its founding in 2010, Cookies has operated across diverse international markets, navigating varying regulatory landscapes in both the medicinal and recreational sectors.
Berner emphasized the importance of quality, innovative genetics, and a patient- and consumer-focused approach as cornerstones of long-term success. His insights resonated deeply with Germany’s young and evolving cannabis industry, offering a roadmap for sustainable growth and stability. As the world’s most successful cannabis brand, Cookies set a benchmark for innovation and excellence.
Having Berner in Berlin to share his journey was a rare privilege and an inspiration for all in attendance. We thank him for joining us and providing invaluable insights that will guide the industry forward.
Yes, we can help: 200 Days of the New Cannabis Law – What’s Changed?
The second panel explored the medical landscape under the new legislation. Moderated by Bertan Türemis (Fette Pharma), the discussion brought together leading experts, including Prof. Dr. med. Kirsten R. Müller-Vahl (Medizinische Hochschule Hannover), Melanie Dolfen (Bezirksapotheke), Gero Kohlhaas (Selbsthilfenetzwerk Cannabismedizin), and Finn Age Hänsel (Sanity Group).
Since the introduction of the Medicinal Cannabis Law (MedCanG) in April 2024, several critical improvements have been made. Removing medicinal cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act has simplified prescribing processes, strengthened doctors’ autonomy, and significantly reduced administrative burdens. However, the panelists agreed that there’s still much work to be done.
The absence of Pillar II, which would establish commercial supply chains, continues to hinder the clear separation between medical and recreational cannabis use. Prof. Müller-Vahl highlighted this gap:
“Without Pillar II, the supply gap persists. Commercial structures are essential to combat the black market effectively and protect both patients and consumers.”
Adding to the industry’s concerns is the political uncertainty surrounding the upcoming government transition. The Union’s pledge to roll back parts of the cannabis legalization framework has caused widespread unease. Finn Age Hänsel voiced his worries:
“A coalition with the Union would be the worst outcome for us. They’ve already signaled their intent to stop legalization, and the SPD likely won’t push back enough.”
Yes, we can all benefit: Exploring Cannabis Quality Under the Microscope
The day concluded with an engaging workshop led by Yordanka Caglar from Tiergarten Apotheke Konstanz. Attendees had the opportunity to analyze various cultivars of medicinal cannabis under the microscope, examining quality indicators such as color, aroma, and terpene profiles. The workshop reinforced the importance of rigorous quality assurance in maintaining trust and meeting patient needs. High standards are essential for building confidence in medicinal cannabis as a therapeutic option.
The “Yes, we can Cannabizz” event demonstrated the power of collaboration and dialogue within this dynamic and growing industry. We thank all speakers and attendees for making this day a memorable one. Together, we are poised to navigate the challenges ahead and continue building a stronger, more resilient cannabis sector.
Explore more moments from ‘Yes, We Can Cannabizz’ in our picture gallery. View Gallery
Anything else?
Do you have specific questions or suggestions for the Cannabis Briefing? Then send us an email to briefing@cansativa.de. If you are interested in revolutionising the cannabis industry with us, then stay tuned and follow our briefings!
We wish you a good read!
With legalising greetings,

Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa

Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa
Milestones and Future Visions: 100 Editions of the Cannabis Briefing
Clinical Studies for Improved Therapy
Clinical studies are crucial to understanding the effects of medical cannabis on conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. These studies establish a scientific basis that can inform medical decisions and guide therapeutic approaches. A recent study on multiple sclerosis indicates improved quality of life with cannabis therapy, especially in physical and mental health. In palliative care, daily THC doses of 5 mg have shown potential to extend the quality and duration of life in seriously ill cancer patients.
Research also shows promising results in treating endometriosis symptoms. A European study with over 900 participants found that cannabis eased sleep disturbances, pelvic pain, and menstrual cramps. Notably, nearly 90% of patients could reduce traditional pain medication with cannabis, highlighting its potential as an alternative therapy. These clinical studies improve treatment options and help reduce biases within the medical field, promoting cannabis as a credible option in healthcare.
Preclinical Research for New Applications
Parallel to clinical studies, preclinical research is vital for exploring the biological mechanisms and potential new applications of cannabis. Compounds like CBD and THC are studied in laboratory settings to understand their interactions with the human body. This research lays the groundwork for expanding therapeutic uses and refining safety profiles. For example, a study by the University of Bonn showed in mice that low-dose THC administration might slow brain aging processes. An Australian study examined the effects of specific cannabinoids on inflammation and neuroprotective properties, particularly related to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. The findings suggest that cannabinoids can reduce inflammatory markers and prevent nerve cell damage in preclinical models. Such findings provide the foundation for new therapeutic approaches, though clinical trials in humans are needed to confirm these effects.
Studies on Destigmatization and Education As discussed in previous briefings, Switzerland has already launched several scientifically supervised pilot projects examining the impact of regulated cannabis sales on consumption behavior. These findings help differentiate the cannabis discourse and reduce societal prejudices. In Germany, the legal foundation for cannabis regulation has been established with the new Cannabis Act (CanG); only the responsible authority remains to be appointed.
Research in all its forms is key to advancing both medical and societal progress in cannabis. This diversity in research underscores the value of scientific insights for destigmatization, therapeutic application, and social acceptance. Through ongoing studies, cannabis’s potential can be optimally utilized, paving the way for evidence-based regulations.
Anything else?
Do you have specific questions or suggestions for the Cannabis Briefing? Then send us an email to briefing@cansativa.de. If you are interested in revolutionising the cannabis industry with us, then stay tuned and follow our briefings!
We wish you a good read!
With legalising greetings,

Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa

Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa
Notification on Accurate Identification of Cookies-Branded Medical Cannabis Products
Mörfelden-Walldorf, October 21st, 2024 – The Cansativa Group is the sole licensee of Cookies-branded cannabis products in Germany. The Cookies product line available in Germany includes four varieties of dried cannabis flowers: Apples and Bananas, Medellín, Blanco, and Hawaiian Rain. As the authorized distributor, we ensure that every product bearing the Cookies name meets the highest standards of quality and authenticity.
It has been brought to our attention that certain products on the market may have labeling that could be misleading. We want to clarify that any product resembling Cookies-branded offerings but not sold through Cansativa is not an authorized Cookies branded product.
Cansativa expressly reserves the right to take legal action against any possible infringement in this context. We have also informed our partner, Cookies Creative Consulting & Promotions, Inc., about this circumstance in order to give them the opportunity to prosecute a possible infringement as well. Cansativa is the only company authorized to market, among other things, the brand “Cookies” in connection with the packaging and/or production of medical cannabis products in Germany.
To prevent confusion with the names of other manufacturers, we hereby list the cultivars that will be exclusively marketed under the Cookies brand until the end of the year 2024: Cookies Medizinalcannabisblüten A&B 22/1, Cookies Medizinalcannabisblüten Medellin 22/1, Cookies Medizinalcannabisblüten Hawaian Rain 22/1 and Cookies Medizinalcannabisblüten Blanco THC/CBD.
About Cansativa Group
Cansativa Group was founded in 2017 by the brothers Benedikt and Jakob Sons in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Cansativa has the largest platform for the most desirable cannabis products and brands which makes it the leader in the medical cannabis market. Through a network of around 2000 pharmacies, Cansativa currently supplies around 300,000 patients in Germany with medical cannabis in the context of pain therapies.
With regard to the reclassification of cannabis in Germany, the Cansativa Group sees itself as a pioneer in the democratization of the cannabis market. Cansativa has the necessary infrastructure and expertise to safely import, store, license, distribute, and brand cannabis. The company is also committed to cannabis education. With the vision “We enable Cannabis”, Cansativa sees itself as a driving force of the cannabis industry in Germany.
For more information, visit www.cansativa.de/en.
Nicole Borges Steeb
External Affairs
+49 6105 96 380 69
nicole.borgessteeb@cansativa.de
Thanks to Cansativa: Cookies products are now available in Germany!
Mörfelden-Walldorf, September 25, 2024 – The Cansativa Group, the leading import and distribution platform for medical cannabis in Germany, has established an exclusive
partnership with the world’s most famous cannabis brand, Cookies. Starting Wednesday, these products will be exclusively available through Cansativa. The partnership will be celebrated at the event “Yes, we can Cannabizz,” on Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 3:00 PM in Berlin – with Berner, Co-Founder and CEO of Cookies, also in attendance.
As the sole licensee for Cookies products in Germany, Cansativa is importing a selection of high-quality cannabis products for the medical cannabis market. The products are grown by RPK Biopharma, a 100% subsidiary of the SOMAÍ Group.
The Cookies product line available in Germany includes four varieties of dried cannabis flowers: Apples and Bananas, Medellín, Blanco, and Hawaiian Rain. The first product, Apples and Bananas, will be available from September 25, 2024, in selected pharmacies. Cookies is the world’s most renowned cannabis company. It was founded in 2010 by Billboard-charting rapper and entrepreneur Berner, together with Bay Area breeder and cultivator Jai.
Yes, we can Cannabizz.
The American cannabis entrepreneur Berner will be present on Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 3:00 PM at the ALICE Rooftop & Garden in West Berlin to discuss the future of the international cannabis market together with Germany’s most exciting cannabis duo, Benedikt and Jakob Sons. Additional leading experts, such as Finn Age Hänsel (Founder and CEO of Sanity Group), will provide insights from the industry, medical field, and patient perspectives. The focus will be on “How to shape the future of Cannabis,” with particular emphasis on the challenges and opportunities of the German and international cannabis markets.
Further information about the event can be found HERE. If you would like to attend in person, please contact Katarina at katarina@thetrailblazers.de / +49 1734120544.
About Cansativa Group
Cansativa Group was founded in 2017 by the brothers Benedikt and Jakob Sons in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Cansativa has the largest platform for the most desirable cannabis products and brands which makes it the leader in the medical cannabis market. Through a network of around 2000 pharmacies, Cansativa currently supplies around 300,000 patients in Germany with medical cannabis in the context of pain therapies.
With regard to the reclassification of cannabis in Germany, the Cansativa Group sees itself as a pioneer in the democratization of the cannabis market. Cansativa has the necessary infrastructure and expertise to safely import, store, license, distribute and brand cannabis. The company is also committed to cannabis education. With the vision “We enable Cannabis”, Cansativa sees itself as a driving force of the cannabis industry in Germany.
For more information, visit www.cansativa.de/en.
About Cookies
Cookies is the most globally recognized cannabis company; founded in 2010 by Billboard-charting rapper and entrepreneur Berner and Bay Area breeder and cultivator Jai. The company creates game-changing genetics and offers a collection of over 70 proprietary cannabis cultivars and more than 2,000 products. Headquartered in San Francisco, the company is actively involved in advocacy and social impact initiatives to enrich communities disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs. Cookies opened its first retail store in 2018 in Los Angeles, has since expanded to over 70 retail locations in over 20 markets across 6 countries, and was recently named one of America’s Hottest Brands of 2021 by Ad Age; the first cannabis brand to ever receive this accolade.
To learn more about Cookies, visit https://cookies.co/, and to learn more about Cookies CBD, visit shop.cookies.co
Press Contact Cansativa
Katarina Jörg
+49 1734120544
katarina@thetrailblazers.de
Press Contact Cookies
Emily Meshell
+1-318-564-8195
em@mygrasslands.com
Notification on Accurate Identification of Cookies-Branded Medical Cannabis Products
Mörfelden-Walldorf, October 21st, 2024 – The Cansativa Group is the sole licensee of Cookies-branded cannabis products in Germany. The Cookies product line available in Germany includes four varieties of dried cannabis flowers: Apples and Bananas, Medellín, Blanco, and Hawaiian Rain. As the authorized distributor, we ensure that every product bearing the Cookies name meets the highest standards of quality and authenticity.
It has been brought to our attention that certain products on the market may have labeling that could be misleading. We want to clarify that any product resembling Cookies-branded offerings but not sold through Cansativa is not an authorized Cookies branded product.
Cansativa expressly reserves the right to take legal action against any possible infringement in this context. We have also informed our partner, Cookies Creative Consulting & Promotions, Inc., about this circumstance in order to give them the opportunity to prosecute a possible infringement as well. Cansativa is the only company authorized to market, among other things, the brand “Cookies” in connection with the packaging and/or production of medical cannabis products in Germany.
To prevent confusion with the names of other manufacturers, we hereby list the cultivars that will be exclusively marketed under the Cookies brand until the end of the year 2024: Cookies Medizinalcannabisblüten A&B 22/1, Cookies Medizinalcannabisblüten Medellin 22/1, Cookies Medizinalcannabisblüten Hawaian Rain 22/1 and Cookies Medizinalcannabisblüten Blanco THC/CBD.
About Cansativa Group
Cansativa Group was founded in 2017 by the brothers Benedikt and Jakob Sons in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Cansativa has the largest platform for the most desirable cannabis products and brands which makes it the leader in the medical cannabis market. Through a network of around 2000 pharmacies, Cansativa currently supplies around 300,000 patients in Germany with medical cannabis in the context of pain therapies.
With regard to the reclassification of cannabis in Germany, the Cansativa Group sees itself as a pioneer in the democratization of the cannabis market. Cansativa has the necessary infrastructure and expertise to safely import, store, license, distribute, and brand cannabis. The company is also committed to cannabis education. With the vision “We enable Cannabis”, Cansativa sees itself as a driving force of the cannabis industry in Germany.
For more information, visit www.cansativa.de/en.
Nicole Borges Steeb
External Affairs
+49 6105 96 380 69
nicole.borgessteeb@cansativa.de
How the 2024 US Elections Could Impact Cannabis Regulation
US-Regulation today
Currently, cannabis remains illegal under federal law as a Schedule I drug, but state-level policies vary. Twenty-four states and D.C.—covering 53% of the population—have legalized cannabis for recreational use, while 38 states permit medical use. This disparity creates a complex legal landscape, often leading to excessive tax burdens and limited access to banking services for cannabis retailers. However, the upcoming election may change policies beyond US borders.
What’s on the Line for Cannabis Regulation?
For the first time, both major presidential candidates have shown support for a significant change in federal cannabis policy. This bipartisan shift suggests that regardless of who wins, the US may be inching toward a more unified approach to cannabis regulation. Voters in Florida, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska will also have a direct say in cannabis legalization through ballot measures, signaling the growing momentum for reform across the country.
Kamala Harris’s Position
Kamala Harris has been a prominent advocate for cannabis reform. In 2019, as a senator, she was the lead sponsor of the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act, a bill aimed at descheduling cannabis that would remove cannabis entirely from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Although it did not pass the Senate, this showcases how Harris’s stance on cannabis has evolved significantly over time. In 2010, as California’s Attorney General, she opposed a state measure to legalize recreational cannabis. And ten years later, she was advocating for complete federal legalization. Currently, as Vice President, Harris leads discussions on criminal justice and cannabis reform within the Biden administration, focusing on rescheduling cannabis under a less strict section of the CSA.
Donald Trump’s Position
Donald Trump’s position on cannabis has been more inconsistent. He supports the idea that the legalization of recreational cannabis should be left up to individual states and recently stated he would vote for Florida’s ballot measure to legalize it. Trump has also endorsed the rescheduling of cannabis under the CSA, aligning this aspect of his stance with the Biden administration’s current efforts. However, Trump’s approach to medicinal cannabis has been somewhat ambiguous. While he stated in 2016 that he “likes” cannabis when used for medicinal purposes and believes its health benefits should be explored further, he has also expressed doubts about its effectiveness, claiming it might do “significant damage.” Moreover, during his presidency, his administration took several anti-cannabis actions, including rescinding an Obama-era policy that directed federal officials not to pursue cannabis-related prosecutions in states where the drug is legal.
Rescheduling Uncertainty: Potential Ripple Effects on European Cannabis Policies
Rescheduling cannabis would be a significant reform but not equivalent to full descheduling. President Biden has acknowledged that rescheduling at the federal level is “not a done deal.” While the Justice Department proposed moving cannabis to Schedule III, the final decision lies with the DEA, with a public hearing scheduled for December 2. This uncertainty has weakened investor confidence. If rescheduling stalls, barriers to medical research and commercial activities will persist. Federal reclassification could also influence European policies, prompting countries to reconsider regulations and impacting trade, research, and legal frameworks, given the US’s role in the global cannabis market.
This election could mark a turning point for cannabis regulation, not just in the US but across the globe, as countries closely watch how the evolving American stance might shape the future of cannabis policy worldwide.
Anything else?
Do you have specific questions or suggestions for the Cannabis Briefing? Then send us an email to briefing@cansativa.de. If you are interested in revolutionising the cannabis industry with us, then stay tuned and follow our briefings!
We wish you a good read!
With legalising greetings,

Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa

Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa
Thanks to Cansativa: Cookies products are now available in Germany!
Mörfelden-Walldorf, September 25, 2024 – The Cansativa Group, the leading import and distribution platform for medical cannabis in Germany, has established an exclusive
partnership with the world’s most famous cannabis brand, Cookies. Starting Wednesday, these products will be exclusively available through Cansativa. The partnership will be celebrated at the event “Yes, we can Cannabizz,” on Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 3:00 PM in Berlin – with Berner, Co-Founder and CEO of Cookies, also in attendance.
As the sole licensee for Cookies products in Germany, Cansativa is importing a selection of high-quality cannabis products for the medical cannabis market. The products are grown by RPK Biopharma, a 100% subsidiary of the SOMAÍ Group.
The Cookies product line available in Germany includes four varieties of dried cannabis flowers: Apples and Bananas, Medellín, Blanco, and Hawaiian Rain. The first product, Apples and Bananas, will be available from September 25, 2024, in selected pharmacies. Cookies is the world’s most renowned cannabis company. It was founded in 2010 by Billboard-charting rapper and entrepreneur Berner, together with Bay Area breeder and cultivator Jai.
Yes, we can Cannabizz.
The American cannabis entrepreneur Berner will be present on Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 3:00 PM at the ALICE Rooftop & Garden in West Berlin to discuss the future of the international cannabis market together with Germany’s most exciting cannabis duo, Benedikt and Jakob Sons. Additional leading experts, such as Finn Age Hänsel (Founder and CEO of Sanity Group), will provide insights from the industry, medical field, and patient perspectives. The focus will be on “How to shape the future of Cannabis,” with particular emphasis on the challenges and opportunities of the German and international cannabis markets.
Further information about the event can be found HERE. If you would like to attend in person, please contact Katarina at katarina@thetrailblazers.de / +49 1734120544.
About Cansativa Group
Cansativa Group was founded in 2017 by the brothers Benedikt and Jakob Sons in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Cansativa has the largest platform for the most desirable cannabis products and brands which makes it the leader in the medical cannabis market. Through a network of around 2000 pharmacies, Cansativa currently supplies around 300,000 patients in Germany with medical cannabis in the context of pain therapies.
With regard to the reclassification of cannabis in Germany, the Cansativa Group sees itself as a pioneer in the democratization of the cannabis market. Cansativa has the necessary infrastructure and expertise to safely import, store, license, distribute and brand cannabis. The company is also committed to cannabis education. With the vision “We enable Cannabis”, Cansativa sees itself as a driving force of the cannabis industry in Germany.
For more information, visit www.cansativa.de/en.
About Cookies
Cookies is the most globally recognized cannabis company; founded in 2010 by Billboard-charting rapper and entrepreneur Berner and Bay Area breeder and cultivator Jai. The company creates game-changing genetics and offers a collection of over 70 proprietary cannabis cultivars and more than 2,000 products. Headquartered in San Francisco, the company is actively involved in advocacy and social impact initiatives to enrich communities disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs. Cookies opened its first retail store in 2018 in Los Angeles, has since expanded to over 70 retail locations in over 20 markets across 6 countries, and was recently named one of America’s Hottest Brands of 2021 by Ad Age; the first cannabis brand to ever receive this accolade.
To learn more about Cookies, visit https://cookies.co/, and to learn more about Cookies CBD, visit shop.cookies.co
Press Contact Cansativa
Katarina Jörg
+49 1734120544
katarina@thetrailblazers.de
Press Contact Cookies
Emily Meshell
+1-318-564-8195
em@mygrasslands.com
Cansativa Expert Dialogue: An Interview with Aline Gralke
1. What is Grashaus Projects, and who is behind it?
Grashaus Projects is a pilot initiative in the Swiss canton of Baselland, designed to study the legal distribution of cannabis and its impact on participants’ health and well-being. The project aims to determine whether legal cannabis distribution, combined with professional advice through our retail model, can promote safer use. We operate two dispensaries in Allschwil and Liestal, with space for up to 4,000 participants—about 1,000 have registered so far. The study, running for up to five years, has specific criteria for participation: participants must live in Baselland, be of legal age, meet certain health requirements, and already be regular cannabis users. The project is supported by the Sanity Group in collaboration with the Swiss Institute for Addiction and Health Research (ISGF) in Zurich, , which is responsible for the scientific part of the project. Importantly, the project is non-profit, with all proceeds reinvested in cannabis research or addiction prevention or donated.
2. What are the goals of the project?
The Grashaus Project, like the other Swiss pilot projects, seeks to explore whether and how legalization in Switzerland can create value. The goal is to test different models of legal cannabis distribution, scientifically monitor participants’ consumption data, and prioritize consumer protection and harm reduction. Additionally, we aim to promote safer use and destigmatize cannabis, moving it out of the “taboo” category and integrating it as a normal part of society. We hope to support a responsible and value-driven approach to legalization.
3. What challenges did you encounter during implementation?
The biggest challenge was working with the authorities, particularly the Federal Office of Public Health (BAG), as our key stakeholders. The approval process was lengthy and required a lot of patience due to numerous questions and adjustments. This can be a significant hurdle, especially for smaller organizations with limited resources. Gaining acceptance within the local community was also crucial, and we had to work hard to garner support. Additionally, reaching potential participants has been challenging, given the strict rules on how the study can be communicated.
Another aspect we’ve observed is that the pricing of the products can be a challenge and is not always seen as an attractive alternative to the illegal market. Some consumers find the prices too high, especially compared to cheaper offers from dealers who often provide bulk discounts. Such pricing promotions are not possible in our studies, as they could encourage consumption. The higher prices are partly due to higher production costs and the fact that only a few domestic growers are licensed, limiting the selection. It’s also challenging to introduce new products into the study, which restricts product variety. Many cannabis enthusiasts enjoy trying new strains, and due to the pricing and limited selection, some participants may turn back to the illegal market.
4. What initial insights or trends have you observed?
After the first six months, we conducted an interim evaluation. We found that participants previously consumed cannabis from illegal sources on 20 days per month, but now it’s down to 10 days—a halving of illegal use, which we see as a positive trend. Interestingly, flower consumption is slightly declining, while the use of extracts has increased by 50%, which is positive as these products are not smoked and fall under safer use products. High-THC products remain the most popular, likely due to habits from the illegal market, where high THC levels are often advertised but rarely achieved.
5. What learnings could be valuable for Germany’s legalization efforts once model projects are allowed there?
What has been done well and what Germany should definitely adopt is the testing of various distribution models. In Germany, this could be done through social clubs, pharmacies, specialty stores, and possibly even consumption lounges, similar to coffee shops—something that is not possible in our pilot project. This approach would best identify which models most effectively promote education, safer use, and consumer protection.
I also hope that Germany, like Switzerland, allows not only the sale of flowers and hashish but also edibles, oral extracts, vape pens, and possibly products like rosin, which are currently not permitted in Switzerland. The demand is there: many people want to try alternative consumption methods, move away from tobacco, and use products that are gentler on their lungs.
Another point is the sourcing of products. In Switzerland, all products come from licensed domestic growers, which limits the selection since imports are not allowed. To create a viable alternative to the illegal market, Germany should allow more flexibility, whether through the import of cannabis from international producers or by making it easier for smaller growers to obtain licenses. This would increase product variety and enhance the attractiveness of legal offerings.
Another positive aspect is the enrollment process for the study. I believe it’s very important to establish and verify participation criteria because, at the end of the day, it’s about protecting and prioritizing the health of the participants.
Anything else?
Do you have specific questions or suggestions for the Cannabis Briefing? Then send us an email to briefing@cansativa.de. If you are interested in revolutionising the cannabis industry with us, then stay tuned and follow our briefings!
We wish you a good read!
With legalising greetings,

Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa

Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Jakob Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa


Benedikt Sons
Founder & Managing Director Cansativa