A Willie Nelson-endorsed hemp THC beverage brand said Thursday it’s raised $15 million in Series A venture capital.
The injection from LeftLane Capital and Second Sight Ventures will fund a “national retail expansion” for Willie’s Remedy+ after a successful rollout online and in stores, according to a news release.
Launched last year, Willie’s Remedy+ claims to have “already sold more than 400,000 bottles, making it the #1 THC beverage sold online.”
National distribution deal for hemp THC beverage line
After an initial debut at Total Wine, which has embraced hemp THC beverages, the investment will see Willie’s Remedy+ expand to other retailers including Lowe’s, Binny’s and TXB, the companies said.
It’s yet another bet on hemp-derived THC drinks as a product with lasting consumer interest despite regulatory uncertainty.
“We invest in brands that align with where consumers are going — not where they’ve been,” said Left Lane Capital partner Laura Sillman.
“Today’s consumers are seeking balance, intention, and better-for-you experience.”
The planned product portfolio includes a 10-SKU lineup featuring 750-milliliter THC-infused spirits, 12-ounce THC-infused seltzers and 2-ounce THC-infused shots.
Willie’s Remedy+ partners with California canned cocktail maker JuneShine Brands for marketing and distribution.
In a statement, Greg Serrao, JuneShine’s cofounder and CEO, said the funding round “marks a major milestone as we build on our early momentum and bring Willie’s Remedy+ to shelves across the country.”
“We’ve proven demand online, and now we’re ready to replicate that success at retail,” he added.
Willie Nelson: Regulate hemp THC drinks, don’t ban
The investment also comes despite a looming ban on hemp THC, signed into law by President Donald Trump, that’s scheduled to go into effect in November.
That’s created significant uncertainty for hemp THC beverage makers even as more mainstream outlets embrace the products.
Chicago’s United Center, one of the country’s largest entertainment venues, said last week it will start offering hemp THC drinks at concerts.
Cannabis beverage makers and sellers are lobbying Congress to pause or do away with the ban entirely and instead regulate the products.
Nelson added his voice to that chorus on Thursday.
“Banning hemp won’t solve problems,” he said, according to the release. “Smart regulation will.
