VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LEEF Brands, Inc. (CSE: LEEF, OTCQB: LEEEF) (“LEEF” or the “Company”), a premier multi-state operator, is pleased to announce that its extraction lab in Upstate New York is now operational. The Company has completed installation of its equipment and has commenced solventless concentrate production, with hydrocarbon capabilities expected to come online next quarter. This positions LEEF to meet rising demand in one of the U.S.’s fastest-growing c ...

Industry Overview - The U.S. cannabis industry is evolving with increasing legalization momentum and rising consumer demand [1][14] - Despite challenges such as oversupply and price compression, leading operators are positioning for future growth [1][14] - Multi-state operators with strong market share are expanding while maintaining financial discipline [1][14] Company Highlights Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (TCNNF) - Trulieve is one of the largest cannabis operators in the U.S., with over 190 dispensaries, primarily in Florida [3][5] - The company has a vertically integrated model, producing and selling a variety of cannabis products [3][6] - Recent financials show strong quarterly revenue and profitability, with effective cost-control strategies [5][6] Glass House Brands Inc. (GLASF) - Glass House operates large-scale greenhouses and a network of dispensaries in California, focusing on sustainable cultivation [7][9] - The company has maintained steady quarterly revenue and improved gross margins despite competitive pricing pressures [9] - Its cultivation capacity positions it as a cost leader in the U.S. market [7][9] Verano Holdings Corp. (VRNOF) - Verano operates over 140 dispensaries across 13 states, with a strong presence in Illinois, Florida, and New Jersey [10][11] - The company emphasizes quality control and cost efficiency through its vertically integrated operations [11][13] - Recent financial performance shows modest revenue growth and improved operating margins, despite industry challenges [13]

Core Insights - MediPharm Labs Corp. is positioned to benefit from the potential rescheduling of cannabis in the United States, which may change its classification from Schedule I to Schedule III [2][8] - The company holds unique FDA site registration and licenses that enable it to produce and distribute pharmaceutical cannabis products, giving it a competitive advantage in the market [7][8] Industry Overview - The US Federal Government is reviewing the rescheduling of cannabis, which could facilitate more research and recognition of its medical benefits at a federal level [2][8] - Rescheduling to Schedule III would significantly enhance the ability for US-based research on medical cannabis products, which is currently hindered by the Schedule I classification [8] Company Positioning - MediPharm Labs maintains top-tier pharmaceutical licenses and registrations, allowing it to lead in the global cannabis market [5][7] - The company has invested in advanced technology and facilities to produce high-quality cannabis products, ensuring compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices [6][7] - MediPharm has already shipped medical cannabis API and products to the US for research, including participation in NIH-funded clinical trials, demonstrating its operational capabilities [8] Recent Developments - In 2023, MediPharm acquired VIVO Cannabis Inc., expanding its reach to medical patients in Canada and internationally [10] - The company has filed a drug master file with the US FDA for CBD active pharmaceutical ingredients, which is essential for sourcing CBD for clinical trials [8]

Core Viewpoint - LEEF Brands, Inc. is increasing its private placement offering to issue up to 7,600,000 units at a price of C$0.25 per unit, aiming for gross proceeds of up to C$1.9 million [1][5]. Group 1: Offering Details - Each unit will consist of one common share and one common share purchase warrant, with each warrant allowing the purchase of an additional common share at C$0.30 for 24 months [2]. - The offering is conducted under the listed issuer financing exemption, meaning the securities issued will not be subject to a statutory hold period under Canadian securities laws [3]. Group 2: Use of Proceeds - The net proceeds from the offering are expected to be used for general working capital, supporting operations from the successful harvest at Salisbury Canyon Ranch, and accelerating operations in New York [4]. Group 3: Management Commentary - The CEO of LEEF Brands stated that the increased financing reflects investor confidence and positions the company for expansion in extraction operations, enhancing vertical integration and exploring new revenue streams [5]. Group 4: Company Overview - LEEF Brands Inc. is a leading extraction and manufacturing cannabis company based in California and New York, with a comprehensive supply chain and innovative manufacturing processes [6].

Core Insights - LEEF Brands Inc. is expanding nationally by acquiring a Type 1 Cannabis Processor License in New York, marking a significant milestone for the company [2][4] - The New York cannabis market has seen rapid growth, projected to reach $1.5 billion in retail sales in 2025, presenting a substantial opportunity for LEEF to leverage its extraction capabilities [3] Company Developments - The acquisition of the Type 1 Cannabis Processor License allows LEEF to engage in extraction, blending, infusion, packaging, labeling, and branding of its products, positioning it as a multi-state operator [2][3] - LEEF plans to replicate its successful California operations in New York, tailored to meet the specific demands of the local market [3][4] Market Context - The New York cannabis retail market grew from $160 million in 2023 to $1 billion in 2024, indicating a strong upward trend [3] - Concentrates account for approximately 55% of cannabis products sold in New York, highlighting the potential for LEEF's extraction capabilities to support growth in the region [3] Industry Engagement - LEEF will participate in the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago on June 9-10, 2025, to connect with investors and industry leaders [5][6] - The executive team aims to build partnerships and share the company's growth story at the conference [7]