Item #9
Item #9 stands out as a brand that masterfully combines quality products with strategic visibility. With its inviting slogan “Welcome to Quality,” Item #9 is not just another cannabis brand; it's a statement of excellence and a commitment to delivering an unparalleled experience to its customers.
Unlike many brands that rely solely on either product quality or marketing prowess, Item #9 strikes a unique balance. It recognizes the importance of making its presence known in a crowded market while ensuring that its products live up to the promise made by its impactful slogan.
Item #9's approach to pricing is a critical aspect of its appeal. By optimizing operational efficiencies through vertical integration, the brand manages to offer high-quality products at prices that defy the usual quality-cost correlation in the cannabis market. This strategy not only makes premium quality cannabis products more accessible but also challenges the industry norms.
The company's vision and drive comes from none other than owner and operator, Shawn Khodadad. I was fortunate enough to get some insight:
Q: What first sparked your interest in the cannabis industry, and how did this evolve into the idea for Item #9?
My interest in the cannabis industry was initially ignited by the scientific complexity and potential of cannabis as a plant. As a chemical engineer, I was fascinated by the intricate processes involved in cannabis extraction and the myriad of ways its components could be utilized. This curiosity grew as I observed the burgeoning legal cannabis market and its untapped potential for innovative products.
– Q: Who were your early influences or mentors in this field, and how did they shape your vision?
In the early stages of my career in the cannabis industry, I was fortunate to have mentors and influences who were pioneers in cannabis extraction and product innovation. One key mentor was a seasoned chemist who had been experimenting with cannabis long before it became mainstream. Their deep understanding of the plant's chemistry and passion for exploring its potential was infectious. They taught me to look beyond the conventional uses of cannabis and to understand its components at a molecular level.
– Q: Can you discuss your educational background or professional experiences that prepared you for running a cannabis extract lab?
Absolutely. My educational journey laid the foundation for my venture into the cannabis industry. As a chemical engineering major with a minor in business administration, I gained a solid grounding in both the technical and commercial aspects of running a business. The rigorous training in chemical engineering, particularly in areas like process design, thermodynamics, and chemical reactions, was directly applicable to understanding and innovating in cannabis extraction processes.
My professional experiences further honed my skills and prepared me for running Item #9. Starting with my initial ambition to enter the Oil and Gas field, I developed a strong skill set in handling complex industrial processes, which is surprisingly analogous to cannabis extraction in many ways. The downturn in the oil industry was a blessing in disguise, as it led me to pivot to the cannabis sector.
– Q: How did you navigate the shift from concept to reality in establishing your business?
Transitioning Item #9 from concept to reality involved several key steps.
First, we developed a practical business plan, grounded in extensive market research and a clear understanding of Oklahoma's cannabis industry regulations. My background in business administration was instrumental in shaping a realistic and sustainable model.
Next, we assembled a dedicated team with both the technical expertise in cannabis extraction and a shared passion for our vision. Setting up the lab required meticulous attention to detail, sourcing top-quality equipment, and ensuring full compliance with safety and legal standards.
For our brand launch, we adopted a comprehensive marketing strategy focused on educating consumers about the benefits and science of our products.
Throughout this journey, constant adaptation, problem-solving, and a blend of scientific knowledge, professional experience, and entrepreneurial spirit were key to turning Item #9 into a tangible and impactful entity in the cannabis industry.
– Q: What were some of the initial obstacles you faced, such as funding, regulatory compliance, or finding the right team?
Starting Item #9 came with its fair share of challenges. One of the first obstacles was securing adequate funding. Convincing investors to believe in a cannabis business, especially in the early days of legalization, required a solid business plan and a clear demonstration of the potential market growth. We had to navigate skepticism and the stigma surrounding cannabis, presenting a compelling case for its medicinal and economic value.
Regulatory compliance was another significant hurdle. The cannabis industry is heavily regulated, and these regulations can vary greatly not just from country to country, but even between states in the U.S. Ensuring that we were fully compliant with Oklahoma's specific regulations required diligent research and sometimes navigating through a complex and ever-evolving legal landscape. It was imperative to stay ahead of the curve in understanding and implementing these regulatory requirements to avoid any legal pitfalls.
– Q: How did you overcome these early challenges, and what lessons did you learn from them?
Navigating regulatory compliance in the cannabis industry required us to stay informed and adaptable, involving in-depth understanding of the legal landscape, consultations with legal experts, and participation in industry workshops and seminars. This proactive approach ensured continuous compliance and preparedness for regulatory changes. The key lessons from these experiences include the necessity of thorough preparation and research in a dynamic industry, the importance of adaptability and resilience to adjust to industry changes, the value of a dedicated team aligned with the company's vision and work ethic, and the need for patience and persistence in building a business in an evolving field. These insights have not only shaped our business strategies but also reinforced our commitment to innovation, quality, and ethical practices in the cannabis industry.
– Q: How did you develop your expertise in cannabis extraction, and what were some key learning moments?
My early consulting roles with various international laboratories were key learning moments, exposing me to diverse extraction methods and the global scope of cannabis processing, highlighting the field's innovation potential. Building extraction labs in California furthered my practical experience, teaching me about technical extraction aspects, scaling operations, quality control, and product consistency. A crucial insight was the importance of preserving terpenes during extraction, vital for the aroma, flavor, and therapeutic effects of cannabis. This knowledge led to the creation of high-quality, full-spectrum products. Keeping up with the latest cannabis research has also been essential, allowing us to refine our methods and product formulations. Overall, my journey in developing cannabis extraction expertise has been a mix of applying my engineering background, hands-on experience, learning from various outcomes, and staying updated with scientific progress, shaping Item #9’s processes and products.
– Q: Can you share a breakthrough or aha moment you had in developing your extraction processes?
In developing Item #9’s extraction processes, a significant breakthrough was the adoption of a low-temperature extraction technique. This method, not widely used by our competitors, allowed for the preservation of delicate terpenes and other volatile compounds, crucial for the flavor, aroma, and therapeutic benefits of our products. This approach marked a major departure from the industry's standard methods and set our products apart in the market. It resulted in a higher quality product that maintained the plant's original profile more effectively and made our extraction process more efficient, reducing the need for extensive post-processing, and handling.
– Q: How did you go about building the Item #9 brand, and what strategies did you use to establish its reputation in the market?
Building the Item #9 brand required a focused strategy centered around quality, innovation, and education, with the aim of making Item #9 a byword for excellence and reliability in the cannabis industry. A key aspect of our strategy was highlighting the high quality and innovative nature of our products. We showcased our unique extraction processes, the scientific expertise that goes into our products, and our dedication to creating safe, effective, and consistently excellent cannabis products. We ensured that each product released under the Item #9 label adhered to strict quality standards.
Another vital component was engaging with the community. We actively participated in local events, supported causes important to the community, and formed collaborations with local businesses. These efforts helped us establish a strong local presence and cultivate a loyal customer base.
Additionally, we placed great importance on gathering and responding to customer feedback through our Instagram and SMS channels. This practice not only allowed us to continually enhance our products and customer service but also demonstrated our commitment to meeting and exceeding our customers' needs and expectations.
– Q: Can you share a story about a moment when you felt that Item #9 had truly made its mark in the industry?
A defining moment of recognition for our impact in the industry occurred during a cannabis event at the OKC Farmers Market, where we hosted a booth. It was incredibly rewarding to have numerous people visit and express that they had tried our products. Hearing firsthand that we offer some of the smoothest vapes they've ever experienced was a profound moment. Being heavily involved in the lab, dedicating countless hours to research and development, and often working late into the night, it's easy to be insulated from the direct consumer experience. It was these face-to-face interactions with people outside of the lab that truly highlighted the impact and success of our extensive efforts in product development.
– Q: Looking back, how have you evolved as an entrepreneur and leader since the inception of Item #9?
At Item #9, I initially approached risk with caution, but I've learned to balance calculated risk-taking with prudent decision-making, a key skill in the dynamic cannabis industry. Adaptability and flexibility have also been crucial, allowing me to keep pace with the ever-changing market and regulatory landscape. My deeper understanding of the industry has significantly influenced our business strategies. Facing various challenges has not only strengthened my resilience but also solidified my commitment to innovation and excellence. This journey has transformed me into a more dynamic and knowledgeable leader in the cannabis sector.
– Q: Are there any decisions or paths you would have approached differently, knowing what you know now?
Hindsight is always 20/20.
Looking back, I would have engaged even more actively in networking, forming strategic partnerships and alliances earlier in our journey. Building a robust network is crucial in any industry, especially one as dynamic as cannabis. Another approach I may have tried differently is to have a strong online presence. In today’s digital age, this is essential. For the last two years since our inception, we have relied solely on worth of mouth marketing and letting our quality product sell itself. While it has been a success for us and got us to where we are today, we did notice a few out-of-state brands appear and rapidly grow with their flashy marketing campaigns and budgets.
– Q: Based on your journey, what key advice would you offer someone just starting in the cannabis industry?
Anticipate and prepare for the unique financial challenges of the cannabis industry, including the often limited access to traditional banking services. It's essential to have a strong financial buffer to navigate these uncertainties. Equally important is staying true to your vision and values. Remember, the cannabis industry extends beyond mere business; it plays a significant role in promoting wellness and contributing to a broader cultural shift. Your passion and commitment in this field can create substantial impact.
Entering the cannabis industry is more than just a business endeavor; it's an exciting and rewarding journey that requires diligence, adaptability, and a relentless commitment to continuous learning and improvement. For me, it has evolved into a true passion, making every day enjoyable and fulfilling. I couldn't imagine doing anything else.
– Q: What do you wish someone had told you when you were starting out?
Being better prepared for the societal and business stigma attached to cannabis would have greatly aided in handling various professional interactions. Equally crucial is selecting the right business partner. It's essential to have someone who's not only willing to put in long hours, often 12-16 hours a day, or even stay on-site during the initial stages, but also fully commits to the venture. A partner who doesn't invest 100% of their effort can be incredibly detrimental in a challenging field like the cannabis industry.
Furthermore, the significance of self-care in this demanding sector cannot be overstated. It's easy to become engulfed in the heavy workload and face burnout. I've learned the importance of allowing myself and our team to take necessary off days. Prioritizing well-being has resulted in increased productivity, focus, and overall better morale in our workplace.
At the heart of Item #9's strategy is its focus on customer satisfaction. The brand believes in creating a loyal customer base through positive experiences and word-of-mouth testimonials. This focus on customer engagement extends beyond the product itself, encompassing a comprehensive service experience.
Item #9's commitment to excellence is evident in its extensive customer services. Offering statewide delivery without relying on third-party services ensures that customers enjoy a seamless and direct experience. This approach not only enhances customer satisfaction but also strengthens the brand's connection with its clientele.
The brand also extends its reach through white labeling opportunities, inviting other businesses to collaborate in delivering quality products. This facet of their operation allows for a broader market reach and fosters partnerships within the cannabis industry.
Item #9 invites everyone to experience a brand that stands for more than just high-quality cannabis products. It represents a commitment to making quality accessible and ensuring that each customer's experience is as refined as the products they purchase.
Item #9 is a shining example of how a cannabis brand can excel by combining high-quality products, effective market visibility, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction. In a market filled with competition, Item #9 stands out by offering an experience that is not just about consuming a product but about being part of a community that values quality, accessibility, and genuine engagement.
Discover the Item #9
Website: www.itemno9.com
Phone: 405.256.4104
Leaflink: http://leaflink.com/menu/item-9/
