Curio Wellness has entered into a strategic manufacturing and distribution partnership with Ascend Wellness Holdings. 

Under the partnership, Ascend will manufacture and distribute Curio Wellness' products in Illinois, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, and Curio will manufacture and distribute Ascend's Ozone products in Maryland and Missouri.

This partnership is designed to be mutually beneficial for Curio and Ascend, leveraging each other's strengths and assets to expand market reach and product offerings. The capital-light approach enables both operators to utilize their existing IP and brand value in new markets without deploying meaningful capital.

"We are thrilled to join forces with a nationally trusted partner such as Ascend and mark a significant moment for Curio Wellness,” Curio Wellness CEO Michael Bronfein. “By combining our award-winning, scientifically derived products with Ascend's extensive manufacturing, sales and distribution network, we will bring our targeted effects-based and patented cannabis solutions to three of the largest markets in the U.S. Moreover, this partnership represents a forward-thinking approach to operational strategy, demonstrating how collective efforts can expand market reach and create a greater return from brand development investments."

"Collaboration is a driving force that allows the cannabis industry to grow and flourish, and we are proud to work alongside a mission-driven company such as Curio," said Ascend CEO John Hartmann. "This partnership is mutually beneficial and broadens Ascend's market exposure, without the need to invest significant incremental capital. Through Curio's manufacturing capabilities, we will gain production and distribution leverage in Missouri and Maryland. Together, we will improve consumer access and continue to pave the way for the future of cannabis health and wellness."