Prnewswire·2025-07-16 20:01Core Viewpoint - High Tide Inc. has secured a $30 million convertible debt loan from a subsidiary of Cronos Group to fund future acquisitions and expand its cannabis retail operations in Canada, aiming to grow its store network beyond 300 locations [1][2][3]. Group 1: Loan Agreement Details - The Junior Secured Loan has a principal amount of $30 million, secured by a third priority lien on certain assets of High Tide, and bears an interest rate of 4% per annum [4]. - The loan has a 5-year term and can be repaid at any time without penalty, with the option for Cronos to convert the loan into common shares at a price of $4.20 per share [4]. - Cronos also received a warrant to purchase up to 3,836,317 common shares at an exercise price of $3.91 per share, representing a 25% premium to the 30-day volume weighted average price [5]. Group 2: Company Growth and Strategy - High Tide aims to utilize the working capital from the loan to enhance its business operations and expand its retail presence, reinforcing its position as a key player in the legal cannabis ecosystem [2][3]. - The company has been recognized as one of Canada's Top Growing Companies and ranked number one in the retail category on the Financial Times list of Americas' Fastest Growing Companies for 2023 [11]. - High Tide operates the largest cannabis retail chain in Canada, Canna Cabana, with 202 locations and continues to innovate in retail technology and consumer products [7][8]. Group 3: Industry Context - The investment from Cronos reflects a belief in the importance of a competitive retail environment that benefits producers, retailers, and consumers alike [3]. - High Tide's integrated operations across various components of cannabis, including retail, consumption accessories, and CBD, position it well within the growing cannabis market [7][10].