Author: GVB Biopharma

Full-spectrum (compliant) distillate is a refined form of hemp extract that is guaranteed to contain less than 0.3% THC. This type of distillate is referred to as “compliant” since its THC levels are in compliance with regulatory and legal requirements established by the 2018 Farm Bill¹.

This CBD extract is honey-like and amber-colored in appearance, and as a purified oil, it blends well with most product types. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the unique properties of full-spectrum distillate, explain why this type of extract is useful, and share the most compelling reasons that you should trust GVB Biopharma as your bulk CBD full-spectrum supplier.

What is Full-Spectrum (Compliant) Distillate?

At GVB Biopharma, all of the hemp strains we cultivate to produce high-quality CBD extracts are bred to contain less than 0.3% THC. Due to our proprietary processing, all of our finished cannabinoid extracts also contain less than 0.3% THC as well. Full-spectrum CBD distillate is a refined extract manufactured by GVB that contains THC at levels that are federally compliant².

Compliant full-spectrum distillate is one of the most affordable bulk ingredients we offer at GVB Biopharma. This is because the distillate has not been subjected to additional processes that fully remove the THC from CBD distillate. At the same time, however, this distillate product represents the pinnacle of advanced hemp extraction science. To provide this extract with the maximum purity possible, we take great care to remove all traces of chlorophyll, wax, and other components that are not desirable in high-end distillate.

In addition to being more affordable, one impressive advantage offered by full-spectrum distillate is the potential of providing the entourage effect. Current research indicates that hemp extract is more potent when the various cannabinoids present in Cannabis sativa flower are consumed together³ (the entourage effect). The full-spectrum distillate may offer these enhanced effects when compared to CBD isolate or other hemp extracts that do not contain any traces of THC.

When reduced to concentrations below 0.3%, the THC content in full-spectrum distillate does not cause any intoxicating effects. It’s possible, however, that when combined with CBG, CBN, CBC, and other non-intoxicating minor cannabinoids, the presence of trace amounts of THC could improve the effectiveness of CBD due to the entourage effect.

This versatile GVB Biopharma full spectrum extract has a variety of unique attributes that make it worth considering as an addition to your CBD brand.

Which product types are ideal for full-spectrum distillate?

GVB Biopharma full-spectrum distillate is ideal for product formulations that are designed to offer the full benefits of CBD while retaining very low THC levels. If it is not necessary to eliminate all traces of THC from your product line, then full-spectrum distillate is an affordable option that may offer enhanced benefits over CBD isolate and other forms of CBD extract in which THC has been eliminated.

Full-spectrum distillate is highly refined, making it very different from winterized or crude CBD extract. Less-refined forms of CBD extract may have a bitter flavor and cause discoloration when they are added to product formulations. In contrast, full-spectrum extract has a light color and mild taste, making it easy to mix with almost every product type imaginable without undesired effects.

Full-spectrum distillate is naturally hydrophobic and will not mix with a water-based product.4 If you want to use full-spectrum distillate in a water-based product, we have full-spectrum water-soluble CBD concentrate options at your disposal.

Why is GVB Biopharma the best source of bulk full-spectrum distillate?

Around the world, GVB Biopharma is widely known as being one of the most professional and transparent CBD extract manufacturers. We pride ourselves on using the best materials and equipment, and we oversee every stage of the manufacturing process ourselves to ensure total quality control and accountability.

In addition to actively pursuing all relevant compliance measures, we also perform comprehensive in-house testing on all of our products. To top it off, our customer service team is second-to-none, and our proactive client relations efforts make it easy to reorder or update your product line at any time. Here are some additional details on what makes GVB Biopharma such a straightforward and rewarding CBD producer to partner with:

Testing and Quality

All GVB Biopharma products are tested multiple times throughout the production process. First, we test the seeds that we use to grow our hemp crops to ensure that they meet our purity and quality standards. While our hemp matures from these verified high-quality seeds, we engage in constant quality control measures to ensure that no pesticides or other toxins contaminate our crops.

We test our hemp flower immediately after harvesting to make sure that our quality control measures were successful. Then, we test the crude extract that we derive from our hemp flower to ensure that no residual solvents are present. Once the unnecessary components in this crude extract have been removed, we test the resulting full-spectrum CBD distillate to ensure that it includes less than 0.3% THC and still contains desirable substances like CBD and the minor cannabinoids that help make full-spectrum distillate such a useful extract.

You have the option of buying our full-spectrum distillate and manufacturing your own products or allowing us to infuse full-spectrum distillate into pre-made white label products that you can then market yourself. If you select this all-encompassing service, we will test the final product before shipment for purity and potency.

Very few cannabinoid producers take such stringent measures to ensure that the full-spectrum distillate they produce is high-potency and free of contaminants. Lab reports are readily available for both our bulk full-spectrum distillate and our white label products that contain this type of cannabinoid-rich CBD concentrate.

Certified Producer

At GVB Biopharma, we proactively seek any and all certifications that may be relevant to our business operations. We were one of the first hemp facilities in Oregon to receive food-grade certification and we work extensively with local fire marshals to ensure that all of our facilities are compliant with fire safety standards.

Most importantly, GVB Oregon is ISO 9001:2015 certified and holds an NSF International’s Good Manufacturing Practice Registration for dietary supplements. NSF International is a leading certification agency that verifies a manufacturing facility has the proper methods, equipment, facilities, and controls in place to produce dietary supplement products in accordance with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s regulations on dietary supplements.

GVB also recently received our Handling certification from California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) and has started producing Certified Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API), which affirms GVB Biopharma’s position as one of the industry’s leading hemp processors.

Each of our certifications speaks to our commitment to maintaining the highest levels of quality control and quality assurance possible. Furthermore, we observe all OSHA workplace safety standards and fire code requirements at our facilities to ensure they are free of hazardous contaminants.

Regardless of any claims, we may make about the quality of our bulk CBD isolate and other products, third-party validation is necessary to confirm the purity of our products and the integrity of our organization. Every certification effort we have pursued has proven that GVB Biopharma is one of the nation’s most reputable suppliers of CBD isolate and other cannabinoid extracts and finished products.

Fast Shipping

GVB Biopharma has locations throughout the United States and we also have a facility in the UK. Plus, we’re in the process of opening a mainland European office and GVB is one of the only cannabinoid producers to have a presence in South America with our Bogata, Colombia location.

Due to the diverse spread of facilities we’ve established around the world, we offer fast shipping services to more nations than nearly all of our competitors. Once you’ve placed an order with us for bulk water-dispersible powder, you can usually expect fulfillment within 24 hours. We can also use expedited shipping services to make sure your products arrive as quickly as possible.

With full tracking enabled with every order, you’ll never have to wonder about the location of your full-spectrum distillate. Our customer service team is also available if you have any questions about your order.

Easy Reordering

At GVB Biopharma, we impose a 1-kilo minimum on all of our full-spectrum distillate wholesale orders. From your first order onward, our knowledgeable customer service staff will be standing by to discuss potential order quantities and pricing.

You’ll be supplied with a dedicated customer service contact for your first order and beyond, and we will keep in touch to make sure your order provided everything you hoped for. When it’s time to reorder, simply get in touch with your designated GVB Biopharma associate or contact us directly at support@gvbbiopharma.com to place another order.

Add full-spectrum distillate to your product lineup today

GVB Biopharma full-spectrum distillate provides many of the same benefits as other CBD distillates while being affordable and completely compliant with all regulations that require CBD products to contain less than 0.3% THC. Since it is a distilled form of CBD extract, full-spectrum distillate is incredibly pure, and it has a mild taste, making it ideal for ingestible products, topical products, and a variety of other CBD product categories.

When you choose GVB Biopharma as your CBD supplier, you don’t only get high-quality CBD products. You also gain access to comprehensive customer service, and our team will help you with any issue that may arise as you develop a brand that will reach your target audience and succeed in the long term. Partner with us at GVB Biopharma to experience the difference that true dedication to excellence can provide in the CBD industry.

Full-spectrum distillate FAQs

1. Is full-spectrum distillate the same as distillate?

Usually, the general term “distillate” refers to full-spectrum distillate in the context of hemp or cannabis. It would be a mistake to assume, however, that all distillate is full-spectrum.

Many distilled hemp extracts are now broad-spectrum instead, which is the same as full-spectrum except that it contains undetectable levels of THC. Always check the labeling to make sure which type of hemp extract you’re working with.

2. What does “full-spectrum distillate” mean?

The exact meaning of the term “full-spectrum distillate” varies depending on the manufacturer, but most people take full-spectrum distillate to be CBD, CBG, or CBN distillate containing up to 0.3% THC. That’s the meaning of “full-spectrum” whether it’s referring to bulk distillate or individually packaged tinctures — hemp cannabinoids combined with compliant levels of THC, which could potentially contribute to the entourage effect.

3. What is stronger: distillate or concentrate?

Distillate is a type of concentrate, so it doesn’t make sense to compare these two terms side by side. It’s true, though, that products labeled “distillate” are more likely to be highly concentrated than products labeled “concentrate.” The term “concentrate,” after all, can refer to any type of concentrated extract while “distillate” refers specifically to a high-purity, refined product that often is quite high-potency indeed.

4. How can you tell the quality of distillate?

The best way to determine the quality of distillate is to take a look at lab reports. Pay special attention to both cannabinoid and contaminant concentrations. You should also perform a visual assessment of the distillate — high-quality distillate should be amber-clear and run like honey.

References

1. 1. McMinimy, M. A. (2019). The 2018 Farm Bill (P.L. 115-334): Summary and Side-by-Side Comparison. Congressional Research Service Report. Retrieved from https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R45525
2. 2. Marinotti, O., & Sarill, M. (2020). Differentiating full-spectrum hemp extracts from CBD isolates: Implications for policy, safety and science. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 17(5), 517-526. Retrieved from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/19390211.2020.1776806
3. 3. Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid‐terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344-1364. Retrieved from https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x
4. 4. Valizadehderakhshan, M. (2022). Extraction and Purification of Cannabinoids from Hemp–Experimentation and Process Modeling (Doctoral dissertation, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University). Retrieved from https://www.proquest.com/openview/17c649665339e6fb41e48a4ebfa881b2/1.pdf?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y

THC-free crystal-resistant distillate is an ultra-refined CBD extract that contains high concentrations of minor cannabinoids, while resisting crystallization and remaining in a liquid form. GVB Biopharma introduced crystal-resistant distillate to the global cannabinoid market and remains a pinnacle producer today.

We originally developed our proprietary crystal-resistant distillate for use in vape cartridges. However, our clients also found that this extract is useful for topicals and other products, where increased crystallization resistance and high minor cannabinoid content are desired. In this guide, you will learn more about crystal-resistant distillate and why so many brands trust GVB Biopharma to supply them with this unique extract.

What is crystal-resistant distillate?

Crystal-resistant distillate (CRD) is similar to our broad-spectrum distillate (BSD) but undergoes an additional process that prevents crystallization for up to six months.¹ Like BSD, crystal-resistant distillate contains undetectable levels of THC. However, due to its unique properties, CRD contains even higher concentrations of a wide range of minor cannabinoids than broad-spectrum distillate.

CBD naturally takes on a crystalline state. Many of the minor cannabinoids do not readily form into crystals. Most forms of CBD distillate, therefore, contain limited concentrations of minor cannabinoids. Due to its liquid state, CRD can accommodate higher concentrations of diverse minor cannabinoids.

As a result, GVB Biopharma’s crystal-resistant distillate can contain up to 25% minor cannabinoids and 35-45% CBD. This unique ability to include significant concentrations of minor cannabinoids makes CRD desirable for a wide range of applications.²

Which product types are ideal for crystal-resistant distillate?

Our crystal-resistant distillate was originally developed for use in high-end vape cartridges. In most hemp vape cartridges, CBD must be diluted and emulsified with undesirable substances, such as VG, PG, or MCT oil, for the vape oil to maintain a liquid state.

GVB Biopharma’s CRD, however, is liquid in its natural state. So, it does not need to be mixed with anything to stay in solution. This attribute makes CRD highly desirable in high-end, additive-free vape cartridges for discerning consumers.

Due to its natural liquid state and high concentration of minor cannabinoids, CRD also enjoys popularity within a variety of other product categories. As consumer awareness of the benefits of minor cannabinoids grows, demand for cannabinoids, like CBG, CBN, and CBC, is also increasing. Since CRD contains 15-25% minor cannabinoids, this extract is attractive for use in tinctures, capsules, topical creams, and various other product categories.

As a type of broad-spectrum CBD extract, crystal-resistant distillate also capitalizes on the growing interest in the entourage effect. The beneficial effects of this proposed synergistic effect between the major and minor cannabinoids in cannabis extracts have not yet been definitively proven. However, the existing evidence clearly suggests that the effects of individual cannabinoids are enhanced when the full spectrum of Cannabis sativa flower constituents work together.

Since crystal-resistant distillate contains more minor cannabinoids than most types of CBD extract, it’s possible the entourage effect it provides could be proportionally stronger. While CRD is ideal for vape products, this bulk ingredient could be used in other products to increase their entourage effect.

Why is GVB Biopharma the best source of bulk crystal-resistant distillate?

While other suppliers are still struggling to bring their crystal-resistant distillate production up to scale, GVB Biopharma has long been the market’s dominant provider of this specialized CBD bulk ingredient. Our proprietary distillation process, cutting-edge facilities, and strong focus on research have allowed us to gain a competitive edge within this critical product category.  Our meticulous, large scale production of CRD ensures a degree of quality and attention to detail that cannot be found anywhere else in the industry.

In addition to our market dominance in CRD, GVB Biopharma is also one of the world’s most established and highly regarded bulk and white label cannabinoid suppliers. Our strict adherence to all applicable regulatory standards and our rigorous testing methodologies ensure our operations are scientifically rigorous and professional.  Our unwavering focus on transparency, accountability, and customer service establishes trust and builds long-lasting relationships. Let’s explore the benefits of working with GVB Biopharma in more detail:

Testing and Quality

All GVB Biopharma products are tested multiple times throughout the production process. First, we test the seeds that we use to grow our hemp crops to ensure that they meet our purity and quality standards. While our hemp grows and matures from these verified high-quality seeds, we engage in constant quality control measures to guarantee that no pesticides or other toxins contaminate our crops.

We test hemp flowers immediately after harvesting to confirm the results of our previous quality control measures. Then, we test the crude extract, derived from our hemp flowers, to ensure that no residual solvents are present. Once THC and other unnecessary components in this crude extract have been removed, we test the resulting crystal-resistant CBD distillate to ensure that it contains no detectable amounts of THC, while retaining abundant amounts of CBD and minor cannabinoids.

Customers may buy our crystal-resistant distillate and manufacture their own products or allow us to infuse crystal-resistant distillate into pre-made white label products they can market themselves. No matter which service you choose, we always test the purity and potency of any product before it ships.

Very few cannabinoid producers use such stringent measures to ensure that the crystal-resistant distillate they produce is high-potency and free of contaminants. Lab reports are readily available for both our bulk crystal-resistant distillate and our pre-made products that contain CRD.

Certified Producer

At GVB Biopharma, we proactively seek any and all certifications that may be relevant to our business operations. We were one of the first hemp facilities in Oregon to receive food-grade certification. We work closely with local fire marshals to ensure that all of our facilities are compliant with fire safety standards.

Furthermore, we observe all OSHA workplace safety standards at our facilities to ensure they are free of hazardous contaminants. Most importantly, GVB Oregon has recently obtained ISO 9001: 2015 certification and is 3rd party NSF cGMP certified, allowing us to maintain the highest levels of quality control and quality assurance possible.

Even though we are justifiably proud and vocal about the quality of our crystal-resistant distillate and other products, third-party validation is necessary to confirm the purity of our products and the integrity of our organization.³ Every certification effort we have pursued and obtained further cements GVB Biopharma’s reputation as one of the nation’s largest, most reputable producers of crystal-resistant distillate, cannabinoid extracts, and finished products.

Fast Shipping

GVB Biopharma has locations throughout the United States and a facility in the UK. We’re in the process of opening a mainland European office. GVB is one of the only cannabinoid producers in South America, with a location in Bogota, Colombia.

Due to the diverse network of facilities we’ve established around the world, we offer fast shipping services to more nations than nearly all of our competitors. Once you’ve placed an order with us for bulk water-dispersible powder, you can usually expect fulfillment within 24 hours. We can also use expedited shipping services to make sure your products arrive as quickly as possible.

With full tracking for every order, you’ll never have to wonder about the location of your crystal-resistant distillate. Our customer service team is also available, if you have any questions about your order.

Easy Reordering

At GVB Biopharma, we require a 1-kilo minimum on all of our crystal-resistant distillate wholesale orders. From your first order onward, our knowledgeable customer service staff will be standing by to answer all your questions and fulfill your needs.

You’ll be supplied with a dedicated customer service contact for your first order and beyond. We will also keep in touch to make sure you are satisfied when your order arrives. When it’s time to reorder, simply get in touch with your designated GVB Biopharma associate or contact us directly at sales@gvbbiopharma.com.

Add crystal-resistant distillate to your product lineup today

Crystal-resistant distillate offers unique benefits that are ideal for vape products and distinguish other types of CBD products from the competition. While this highly refined distillate extract contains undetectable levels of THC, it contains more minor cannabinoids than practically any other extract on the market. It is ideal for capitalizing on the entourage effect and the growing consumer interest in minor cannabinoids.

GVB Biopharma is not only the world’s largest supplier of crystal-resistant extract—we’re also one of the market’s friendliest and most professional cannabinoid suppliers. When you decide to work with GVB Biopharma, we help to make your CBD brand dreams come true. Contact us today to experience the benefits that crystal-resistant distillate has to offer and gain a leg up in the industry with our unrelenting dedication to excellence.

Crystal-resistant distillate FAQs

1. What is the difference between CBD and CRD?

CRD usually contains CBD, but most types of CBD are not CRD. The term “CRD” stands for “crystal-resistant distillate,” meaning it’s a type of cannabinoid distillate that resists crystallization.

While CBD is the cannabinoid most commonly used in CRD, it is not the only hemp compound that can be included. CBG, CBN, CBDa, and a wide variety of other natural cannabinoids are also compatible with CRD. In a nutshell, CBD and CRD are not the same. CBD is a type of cannabinoid. CRD is a type of cannabinoid preparation, known as a distillate.

2. Can I buy CBD broad-spectrum crystal-resistant oil online?

Yes, crystal-resistant extracts, containing CBD, are now commonplace online. They are often offered in broad-spectrum form — meaning all detectable traces of THC have been removed. It’s relatively simple to remove THC during the same process that renders CBD distillate crystal-resistant. This makes it easier to find broad-spectrum CRD than  full-spectrum CRD.

3. Is crystal-resistant distillate stronger than concentrate?

No, crystal-resistant distillate is not usually stronger than other forms of CBD concentrate. On the contrary, one of the ways to inhibit crystallization is to keep CBD levels in this type of extract relatively low. CRD is still potent, but it isn’t so CBD-heavy that the compound can easily recrystallize.

4. Where can I buy THC-free CRD in bulk?

CRD (with all traces of THC removed) is relatively common online these days. However,  only a few suppliers offer high-quality CRD you can trust to be free of all contaminants (like heavy metals) — not just THC. As you select the right broad-spectrum CRD supplier, check  their certification status and make sure their lab reports disclose both potency and any concentrations of common contaminants .

Sources

1. Schneider, F.; Baumann, K.; Bunjes, H.; Francke, M. Formulation of Cannabidiol in Colloidal Lipid Carriers. Molecules 2021, 26, 1469. Retrieved from: https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/26/5/1469

2. Zagzoog, A.; Mohamed, K. A.; Jim, H. J. J.; Kim, E. D.; Frank, C. S.; Black, T.; Jadhav, P. D., Holbrook, L. A.; Laprairie, R. B. Scientific Reports 2020, 10(20405). Retrieved from: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-77175-y

3. Bonn-Miller, M. O.; Loflin, M. J. E.; Thomas, B. F.; Marcu, J. P.; Hyke, T.; Vandrey, R. Labeling Accuracy of Cannabidiol Extracts Sold Online JAMA 2017, 318(17). Retrieved from: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2661569

Like any emerging industry, CBD companies continue to endure their fair share of turmoil. Every entrepreneur knows, however, that chaos can be synonymous with opportunity, and the non-intoxicating cannabinoid has finally stabilized to the extent that market entry is no longer considered risky. In this list, we’ll cover 9 of the most compelling reasons that there’s never been a better time to start a hemp brand, and we’ll provide you with the insight you need to ensure that your new cannabinoid venture will be a success.

1. Market growth projections are remarkably promising

In 2020, the renowned cannabis analytics agency Brightfield Group suggests that the domestic non-intoxicating cannabis industry will exceed $4.7 billion in market size. This firm expects the hemp market to grow at an accelerating pace over the next five years, and by 2025, non-intoxicating cannabinoids could be worth as much as $16.8 billion in the United States alone.

Very few industries exhibit this unbridled degree of sheer growth potential. These projections remind us that the hemp industry remains in its emerging phases even though significant market consolidation and stabilization have occurred over the last few months. If the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides meaningful guidance on CBD sooner than expected, the hemp industry may grow at an even more rapid pace.

2. COVID-19 has boosted online CBD sales

The lockdowns that have ensued in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic have majorly disrupted practically every segment of the economy. While it’s true that many struggling CBD brands didn’t make it and plenty of brick-and-mortar CBD stores were forced to close shop, savvy entrepreneurs have made a pivot that saved their brands while simultaneously providing expanding opportunities throughout the industry.

According to Brightfield, 47% of CBD consumers now purchase their hemp products online, and this trend is only expected to accelerate. Brands that make proper use of digital marketing, therefore, are equipped to succeed as a greater number of eyes descend on the online hemp market than ever before.

3. Minor cannabinoids are opening up new opportunities

Gone are the days when CBD was the only non-intoxicating cannabinoid to contend with. Plenty of major brands are adding cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), or cannabichromene (CBC) to their CBD products, and some brands are even going so far as to offer products that only contain these “minor” cannabinoids.

As the hemp market stabilizes and consumers become more accustomed to CBD, new brands are benefiting from the opportunities to diversify that are being provided by minor cannabinoids. Now that CBD has essentially become normalized, consumers are on the lookout for new, innovative cannabinoids, and they’re especially keen to find products that boost or enhance the latent benefits of CBD.

4. Innovation is delivering impressive rewards

Effective entrepreneurs always make choices based on popular trends, and the CBD industry is rewarding this type of behavior like never before. All of the most popular CBD brands have developed immune-focused products as COVID-19 has become a major concern, and these new products have spurred an unprecedented era of innovation.

Combining CBD with immune-focused ingredients like vitamin D3 and elderberry extract has proven to be an effective model, and this diversification has also effectively-prepared CBD consumers to embrace hemp products that contain additional ingredients. Even after concerns over COVID-19 die down and the world returns to normal, consumers will remain primed to choose products that combine CBD with other useful substances.

This trend makes diversification easier for new brands. While forcing a simple full-spectrum CBD tincture to stand out in today’s hemp market is practically impossible, combining CBD or another non-intoxicating cannabinoid with trending botanical ingredients provides the necessary diversification to ensure that your brand will be noticed.

5. Market consolidation is providing useful lessons

Despite the fact that the FDA has yet to release concrete guidance to the CBD industry, hemp has become increasingly normalized, leading a few large companies to push smaller competitors out of the running. While this might seem like bad news to new brands at the outset, the recent consolidation of the hemp market can easily be turned into a source of unexpected opportunities.

For instance, there are now finally models of what works in the hemp industry. Following in the footsteps of currently dominant CBD brands eliminates guesswork and provides proven approaches to success. What do these legendary brands have in common? A firm focused on digital marketing and product diversification.

6. Consumer sentiment toward CBD continually improves

Long considered to be a fringe product burdened by its association with marijuana, hemp has truly come into its own over the last few years. Consumers finally recognize that CBD is essentially no different from any other natural remedy on the market, and they aren’t concerned that they’ll get high from using products with less than 0.3% THC. Hemp entrepreneurs can easily capitalize on this unprecedented warming toward CBD to achieve concrete success.

7. Industry evolution makes the startup phase smoother

Previously, entrepreneurs were forced to shoot in the dark as they developed business plans and implemented methods for approaching the hemp market. Now that the CBD industry has significantly stabilized, however, industry veterans have emerged who can lend their expertise to new entrants on how to make hemp products. At GVB Biopharma, we take the guesswork out of launching a cannabinoid brand. From formulating custom products that are proven to capture consumer interest to providing assistance with product placement and brand management, we are here to help you be successful!

8. White label and bulk cannabinoid products have never been so diverse

Did you know that it’s now possible to produce a water-soluble liquid that contains CBG-rich broad-spectrum hemp extract with zero THC? How about a crystal-resistant CBD distillate that contains up to 25% minor cannabinoids?

The product formulation capabilities of leading bulk cannabinoid suppliers have evolved dramatically over the last few years, and finished white-label products are likewise more advanced and diverse than ever before. It’s now a simple matter to add practically any botanical ingredient to hemp topicals, tinctures, or edibles, and CBD vape products can now benefit from a wide range of added cannabis terpenes.

9. Global growth shows no signs of stopping

The United States isn’t the only place where the CBD industry is booming. South America, Europe, Asia, and even Africa are rapidly embracing the international hemp renaissance, and shrewd entrepreneurs can now position themselves to succeed in any of these global cannabinoid markets. CBD and other non-intoxicating cannabinoids are quickly becoming fixtures throughout the entire world, boosting the overall growth of the hemp industry and ensuring that consumer sentiment toward cannabinoids will continue to brighten.

Founding a hemp brand FAQ

What is the future of the hemp industry?

While it may seem like the most profitable days are already behind us, the truth is that the hemp industry’s future has never been brighter. CBD has finally caught on as a mainstream substance, and countless other cannabinoids are waiting in the wings. With the hemp industry becoming more professional by the day, those with genuine value to offer will always find a way to become involved in shaping the market’s future.

How do I market my hemp business?

Ultimately, the best way to market your hemp brand is to have people try your product, be impressed by it, and genuinely recommend it to friends. Online ads, guest blogs, and other approaches also have their place, but if you make a product that offers real value, it will eventually catch on purely due to word of mouth.

How do I start a successful CBD brand?

The best way to set yourself up for success in today’s hemp industry is to choose a white labeler and build your brand from there. Without securing a reliable source of high-quality cannabinoids, you’ll be stuck flailing at the starting gate before you are able to offer products that back up your promises.

How much does it cost to start a CBD business?

You can start a successful CBD business for less than $10,000 if you allocate your resources responsibly. Working with a CBD private labeler saves an incredible amount of money, which you can then invest into making your brand larger and more profitable over time.

Entrepreneurs in the CBD space have conflicting views on the FDA. While this federal agency will ultimately be responsible for ushering in the era of mainstream CBD commerce, the FDA has seemingly made life harder for many domestic hemp producers and brands.

While it’s true that the FDA has cracked down on certain companies for violating laws that prohibit unproven medical claims, it’s not as if this government agency has a negative overall position on CBD.¹ As new insider information from GVB’s own Drew Spiegel suggests, the FDA may have a remarkably positive perspective toward CBD and is simply hamstrung by the existing state of pharmaceutical law.

In this critical update on the current status of United States CBD regulation, learn how Congress, the White House, and even the FDA itself are actively lobbying for comprehensive regulatory changes that will classify CBD as a dietary supplement during the first half of next year. It turns out that the FDA is friendlier toward the CBD industry than anyone expected, and we’ll explain why as we continue.

What the FDA has said about CBD so far

Over the last few years, CBD companies have developed an unfortunate habit of receiving the latest FDA updates with a mixture of resentment and trepidation. At multiple points starting in early 2017, the FDA has released communications that seemingly put the CBD industry in jeopardy by threatening non-complying companies with legal action, including injunction and/or seizure of product.² In some cases, uninitiated pundits and consumers have spread these announcements far and wide as proof that the “walls are closing in” on the unregulated, and therefore apparently dangerous, domestic hemp industry.

What many commentators have failed to recognize, however, is that the FDA is inherently a regulatory agency. It does not pass laws, and it only makes policies based on its interpretation of laws that Congress has devised. If the FDA has come across as being critical or antagonistic toward the CBD industry, it is only because existing CBD laws are still not the friendliest. If we look beyond the ominous warning letters that the FDA continues to send to CBD companies that violate regulations, it’s clear to see that this federal agency is actually remarkably hopeful regarding the potential therapeutic value that CBD may offer.

The FDA is not anti-CBD

Soon after the 2018 Farm Bill was signed into law, then-FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb released a statement reiterating how important it is to fully research active components of Cannabis sativa. Later in 2019, the FDA held a public hearing during which hemp industry stakeholders provided valuable information regarding the safety and potential utility of CBD and other cannabis constituents.

As if this point wasn’t already clear enough, the FDA took the time in July of 2019 to release a statement confirming how committed this federal agency was to producing reliable, science-oriented CBD policy. In March of this year, the FDA released an update on its efforts to better understand the therapeutic potential of CBD, and in July, this government agency paved the way toward a more streamlined approach to CBD clinical studies.

In September, the FDA announced that it would soon produce guidance that will make it easier to approve CBD-based prescription medications. The FDA also recently provided the White House with a proposal regarding CBD product enforcement, and a recent House Spending bill appropriated funding for CBD regulation. Contrary to appearances, the FDA is actually moving on CBD as quickly as possible while its resources remain significantly limited due to the ongoing pandemic.

D.C. rumors and projections

With the FDA siding with the hemp industry and apparently taking every action necessary to bring CBD into the mainstream, what are the next developments that stakeholders can expect to emerge from the Washington D.C. regulatory apparatus? There’s only so much you can learn from official FDA statements, and for hands-on information on the current status of federal CBD regulation efforts, we turn to GVB Biopharma COO Drew Spiegel, who has extensive connections with lobbyists and other contacts within the Washington establishment.

Reading between the lines

The FDA’s new commissioner, Dr. Stephen Hahn, recently admitted that it would be a “fool’s errand” to say that you can’t use CBD products. According to Hahn, the FDA has “to be open to the fact that there might be some value to these products and certainly Americans think that’s the case.” He went on to reiterate that it’s the FDA’s role to provide consumers with “information to make the right decisions.”³

This statement should put an end to paranoid speculation that the FDA intends to send its very limited force of federal agents to forcibly seize every CBD product and apparatus of CBD suppliers in the USA. Clearly, the FDA has no intention of stopping the CBD industry from functioning, and this agency only wants to make it easier and safer for consumers to access high-quality CBD products.

After multiple years of ceaseless examination, it has apparently become clear to the FDA that CBD has therapeutic potential, and it should now also be clear to hemp industry stakeholders that the FDA intends to take significant action regarding the CBD industry as soon as is reasonably possible. Except for CBD producers and brands that are already in violation of federal laws and FDA policies regarding hemp commerce, these upcoming regulatory changes should be cause for celebration, not dread.

The FDA’s hands are tied by the FD&C Act

Washington insiders indicated to Drew that the FDA is currently highly frustrated by the limits imposed by Title 21 of the United States Code, better known as the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). The FD&C Act stipulates that a substance currently used in a pharmaceutical drug cannot simultaneously be sold as a dietary supplement. Since the FDA has already approved Epidiolex, a CBD-based prescription drug, for certain types of epilepsy, it is unable to start approving CBD products as dietary supplements as much as it may want to start taking this step.

The opioid crisis looms large

Things are looking positive for the federal CBD situation on a number of fronts. As a result of its extensive investigation into the potential benefits of CBD, it appears that the FDA has been especially impressed by research into the potential anti-addictive properties of this non-intoxicating cannabinoid. This government agency seems to believe that CBD could play a pivotal role in halting the ongoing opioid crisis, which has only accelerated during the COVID-19 crisis.

Congress is pressuring the FDA

We were informed that certain prominent members of Congress are putting significant pressure on the FDA to move forward with the CBD approval process. This initiative has received bipartisan support, but the FDA is pushing back by saying that it cannot take definitive action until Congress passes new legislation modifying the FD&C Act to allow CBD to be sold as a dietary supplement even though Epidiolex is also currently on the market.

The White House is pressuring the FDA

The FDA is also receiving pressure to approve CBD as a dietary supplement from the White House, say Drew’s D.C. insiders. Under the Trump administration, the Executive Branch has engaged in an unprecedented mobilization to address the opioid crisis, which claims more than 70,000 lives every year and leaves countless more Americans suffering from addiction and other opioid-related conditions. Upon receiving reports that CBD could be instrumental in addressing the opioid crisis, the White House is apparently very keen to normalize the CBD industry’s position within the American economy.

The election is causing uncertainty

With less than a week remaining until the first election conducted during a pandemic since 1918, unprecedented levels of mail-in voting may delay the final results of the presidential election by several weeks. The Commissioner of Food and Drugs is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, and it’s entirely possible that a Republican nominee could face a Democratic Senate or vice versa. While we still believe the FDA will provide new rules on CBD during Q1 or Q2 of 2021, it would be unsurprising if this long-awaited action were delayed until Q3 if questions regarding the outcome of the election result in a lengthy nomination and confirmation process for the new FDA commissioner.

CBD could be classified as a dietary supplement as early as Q1 2021

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, industry insiders firmly expected comprehensive CBD regulation to arrive no later than Q3 2020. Since resources have been reallocated to respond to the novel coronavirus, however, the inherent issues surrounding CBD regulation were temporarily pushed to the side. In recent weeks, however, there has been a sense throughout Washington that hemp industry regulation has again begun receiving significant attention, and Drew’s insiders report a firm consensus that the FDA’s overhaul of CBD regulation will arrive within the first two financial quarters of 2021.

The FDA has two potential approaches

Unfortunately, within the first quarter of President Biden’s administration, Biden handed the CBD industry another setback by pulling six FDA guidances and rules from its policy review. Nonetheless, the FDA continues to support the CBD industry stating that safety standards are long overdue.⁴ While the FDA would clearly like to move on CBD earlier rather than later, it’s important to remember a simple, important fact. Although the FDA’s regulation statements or “final rules” may appear similar to decrees of law, this agency’s only role is to interpret the laws that Congress has provided to deliver rulings on consumer products.

At this stage, the FDA can either wait for Congress to rewrite the FD&C Act to allow CBD dietary supplements to be sold at the same time as Epidiolex, or they can take decisive action to subvert the FD&C act and regulate CBD as a dietary supplement without the approval of Congress. While the details remain unclear, Drew’s insiders have reported that the FDA may have an option at its disposal that would allow CBD to enter the market as a dietary supplement following the production of an incredibly detailed toxicology report definitively proving its safety.

The timeline is the same either way

Regardless of which approach the FDA takes, Washington is convinced that this government agency will fundamentally redirect the national conversation surrounding CBD during the first half of next year. The FDA is, apparently, fully onboard with the CBD movement, and Commissioner Hahn wants to normalize the CBD industry as soon as possible. With the FD&C Act the only significant hurdle remaining in place, the FDA is a single step away from opening the floodgates and definitively liberating CBD from its stifling regulatory gray area.

How to prepare for the coming changes

At long last, a complete rewrite of existing CBD regulations is just around the corner. Now that CBD is finally about to get the recognition it deserves, what steps should you take to position yourself within the transformed domestic hemp economy?

Start thinking mainstream

By this time next year, CBD will no longer be a fringe substance with no official designation. Instead, CBD manufacturers will be encouraged to petition the FDA to classify their products as dietary supplements. CBD products without dietary supplement classification will be subject to punitive action, and to be approved, CBD products and manufacturing facilities will need to be extensively examined by the FDA.

Choose forward-thinking suppliers

As a result, now is probably not the right time to strike out on your own and build an FDA-worthy CBD production lab from scratch. Certain bulk cannabinoid and white label cannabinoid product manufacturers, such as GVB Biopharma, have already started adopting FDA and cGMP guidelines.

Now that CBD is finally becoming legitimized and mainstream, the barrier to entry to the hemp industry will be raised significantly, which serves the best interests of both consumers and manufacturers in the end. With the right cannabinoid supplier at your side, complying with the FDA’s upcoming CBD regulations will be a walk in the park, and your opportunities within the freshly reshaped domestic hemp industry will only become more rewarding.

Federal CBD legalization FAQs

1. What is the latest news on federal hemp legalization?

Federal hemp legalization has not moved forward at exactly the rapid clip we had originally imagined. Due to stalls and starts originating from the COVID pandemic, nationwide hemp legalization of the type that we’d like to see has yet to manifest. There are promising signs, though, that major change is coming this year.

2. What is the 2023 Farm Bill?

In 2023, Congress will vote on a new Farm Bill, an event that generally occurs every five years. The latest Farm Bill will address many of the changing needs of the hemp industry, including the admission of new cannabinoids and easing of maximum THC standards. If what we know about the 2023 Farm Bill so far is any guide, hemp legalization in America will continue to be incremental rather than sudden for the foreseeable future.

3. What will be in the 2023 Farm Bill?

The three most important points that the 2023 Farm Bill is expected to cover in relation to hemp are:

• Addressing delta 8 and others: Due to an oversight in the 2018 Farm Bill, the federal government has not had adequate tools for dealing with the rise of delta 8 and other new, non-CBD cannabinoids.
• Increasing the THC limit: Producers have long pointed out that a THC limit of 0.3% is restrictive against free business. The limit of THC in hemp may be raised to 1% this fall.
• Allowing THC in unfinished products: Unfinished hemp products often contain more than 1% THC, leading to potential legal issues that will hopefully be rectified in the 2023 Farm Bill.

References

1. Garvin, W. H.; Hu-Rodgers, T. FDA Takes Aggressive Action Against CBD Production, November 27, 2019. Insights. Buchanan, Ingersoll, & Rooney. Retrieved from: https://www.bipc.com/fda-takes-aggressive-action-against-cbd-products

2. FDA Writing Staff. FDA Warns 15 Companies for Illegally Selling Various Products Containing Cannabidiol as Agency Details Safety Concerns, November 25, 2019. FDA Press Announcements. Retrieved from: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-warns-15-companies-illegally-selling-various-products-containing-cannabidiol-agency-details

3. Hahn, S. M. FDA Advances Work Related to Cannabidiol Products with Focus on Protecting Public Health, Providing Market Clarity, March 05, 2020. FDA Press Announcements. Retrieved from: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-advances-work-related-cannabidiol-products-focus-protecting-public-health-providing-market

4. Bennett, T. FDA CBD Regulations Put on Pause as New Administration Moves In, January 27, 2021. HempGrower. Retrieved from: https://www.hempgrower.com/article/fda-cbd-regulations-withdrawn-biden-administration-usda-final-rule/

Marketing a hemp product presents unique challenges, but there’s also plenty of room for opportunity. From how to formulate a good product to the various marketing methods that are available, it pays to know as much as you can before your brand launches.

In this guide, we’ll begin by covering the most important information you need to know about marketing cannabinoids. Then, we’ll continue on into an in-depth exploration of how to market cannabinoids in today’s industry, and we’ll finish by explaining the steps you’ll take to launch a successful hemp brand.

Cannabinoid marketing overview

Marketing cannabinoids isn’t like selling anything else. Here are just a few examples of the unique factors you’ll need to keep in mind when selling cannabinoid products online or in-store:

– Certain cannabinoids remain in a legal gray area

– As a result, many major ad providers don’t allow the promotion of cannabinoid products

– With many traditional options unavailable, cannabinoid marketing largely centers around organic content

So, to market cannabinoids effectively and without any hiccups along the way, you’ll need to:

1. Educate yourself regarding the current status of cannabinoid laws and regulations

2. Explore alternative marketing approaches

3. Perpetually innovate to stay abreast of the constantly changing hemp industry

Despite initial hurdles you’ll need to overcome, the cannabinoid industry is blossoming with opportunities. Cannabinoids offer genuine benefits, and consumer demand for hemp remains unabated regardless of the current absence of federal government guidance.

True entrepreneurs have always operated outside the mainstream. Marketing cannabinoids simply makes it easier to harness your full entrepreneurial creativity by pushing you to do things your own way.

What is the target market for cannabinoids?

The beauty of cannabinoids lies in their universal appeal. While younger consumers are more likely to be willing to try cannabis in general, older folks are just as interested in cannabinoids due to the perception that they may help with pain relief, mood, or a variety of other common conditions.

In truth, the stigma around the word “cannabis” has dropped significantly. You’d be surprised by how many individuals come around after witnessing the power of these beneficial (and usually non-intoxicating) substances. The cannabinoid cause is truly universal, so it’s just a matter of getting your product in front of the eyes of consumers and differentiating it from the competition.

How do you market cannabinoids?

Due to the unique regulatory environment surrounding cannabinoids, marketing these natural hemp substances can seem harder than it actually is. To show you just how easy it can be to convince consumers to buy your cannabinoid products, we’ll break the process down into three parts: the product, the message, and the methods.

Part 1: The product

Your product should always be the crux of your business and your main focus when beginning to develop a new brand or product line. Instead of making the product the annoying necessity of your marketing plan, make it the center—that’s how successful brands begin.

Quality

Consumers want quality, and they’re getting better at sniffing it out¹. Don’t fall for the allure of deceiving your customers with second-rate products if your end goal is to have a first-rate brand. The truth will come out eventually, and even if you get away with it, there’s still such a thing as right and wrong. Formulate a quality product, and your brand will reap the benefits for years to come.

Diversification

No matter how great your product is, it will likely get swallowed up in the noise created by competing brands unless you make it stand out properly. Diversification is the process of making your product look different from your competition. It doesn’t have to be cheaper, and it doesn’t have to be better. It just has to be different enough to stand out and grab those few seconds of consumer attention² that can ultimately lead to a sale.

Formulation

When it comes to generating repeat customers, it’s what’s under the hood that matters. Taking the time to formulate a uniquely beneficial product will ensure your customers achieve the results they desire, cementing your brand as a reliable provider of a quality product.

Part 2: The message

A product can’t speak for itself. With the right labeling and branding, however, it can captivate your customers long enough to drive sales, but only if you have the core vision to see your project to completion.

Labeling

A cannabinoid product’s labeling should be visually pleasing without being overwhelming. All the important information, including potency and ingredients, should be there. It would be counterproductive, though, to cover your label with too much distracting text and imagery.

Branding

Branding is to marketing as diversification is to product formulation. Your highly diversified product will get lumped in with average competitors unless you properly communicate the unique selling proposition³ of your product—and, even more importantly, how that individual product fits into your overall brand.

Vision

Your brand will fail unless you know what you want to achieve. Every step you take—from product formulation to labeling to branding—should further the overall goal or vision of your enterprise. You want to make money, of course, but how can you convey your vision to consumers in a way that kindles a positive reaction?

Part 3: The methods

Now that you know what to do when it comes to marketing cannabinoids, we need to tell you how to do it. As we mentioned in the beginning, your marketing options are unusually curtailed when you’re selling cannabinoids, but we’ll show you how to see this as an opportunity instead of a hindrance.

Pay-per-click

Despite what you may have heard, it’s possible to purchase pay-per-click (PPC) ad coverage for cannabinoid products. If you want to advertise with Google, Meta, or any of the other big players, though, you’ll need to jump through a ridiculous number of hoops only to most likely get your account suspended anyway without a satisfying explanation. As a result, most cannabinoid brands only utilize PPC ads once they’ve achieved a level of success where it’s possible to funnel funds into a wide variety of projects.

Social media

Although pay-per-click ads may be outside of your brand’s marketing scope, you can still jump on the power of social media marketing anyway. Some cannabinoid brands have amassed whole fleets of influencers who convince their followers to buy products through posts they personally craft. Influencers can be notoriously finicky to work with, and getting enough of them on payroll to make a difference requires a significant time investment. That being said if you have the time, and select the proper influencers to market your products, this can be a very profitable route for any retail brand.

Content

Producing organic content is currently the best marketing method available to cannabinoid brands, and it will likely stay that way for the foreseeable future. Even if the federal government legalizes cannabis anytime soon, corporations are still free to deny cannabinoid advertising if they so choose. By organically leveraging Google’s algorithms to connect your products to questions consumers frequently ask, you can bypass the embargo on paid ads while also flexing your creative copywriting skills.

The GVB product launch process

At GVB Biopharma, we’ve developed a tried-and-true, seven-step process for creating a cannabinoid product from beginning to end. How you choose to market your products beyond that point is your decision to make, but starting off with a high-quality product accompanied by compelling messaging will set your brand up for success. From your first discovery call to the packaging of your finished product, let’s take a look at the GVB product launch process step-by-step.

Step 1: Discovery call

On our first call, we’ll discuss your overall goals as a company to start determining the types of products that might be appropriate. This brief call will give us enough information to get started on some ideas regarding how to build your brand.

Step 2: Product selection

Once we’ve locked down on your needs, it will be time to choose the products you want to include in your cannabinoid line. From capsules to tinctures to tablets to topicals, the options are practically endless, and the unique medley of products you select will become one of the primary distinguishers of your brand.

Step 3: R&D

Custom-made products rarely come out exactly as you’d like them to on the first try. We’ll work with you throughout the research and development process to make sure the formulations we’re developing fall in line with your brand’s vision and goals.

Step 4: Labels

Once your product formulations are ready, it will be time to design your labels. GVB will provide you with label templates and connect you with the nation’s best cannabinoid label providers, but it is up to you to come up with the branding and finalized label designs you want to use for your products.

Step 5: Finalizing

Your products are finished, and your labels are printed. Now, we simply need to narrow down on details like:

• The number of products you want to produce during the first run
• When you expect the products to be available
• Where you’d like the finished products sent

Step 6: Production

With all the details covered, it’s time to start making your products. Each cannabinoid product is made differently, but the process follows the same basic steps each time:

• Fitting your product into our production team’s schedule
• Formulating and packaging your unique product formulation
• Packaging the formulation into the agreed-upon containers
• Applying your custom-printed labels to the containers
• Performing quality control and applying any outer packaging

Step 7: Fulfillment

Your cannabinoid products are complete, and they’re ready to go into shipping boxes or crates. Now, the only step is for us to send your products to their intended destination or destinations. We can be flexible with your choice of shipping provider.

Cannabinoid marketing tips

Before we go, we’ll leave you with a few final tips to help you market your brand-new cannabinoid products:

• Remember that good products sell themselves. Embrace the power of word-of-mouth marketing by making your products something consumers can’t help but share.
• Don’t waste time on PPC ads when you’re just starting out. Organic social media posts and blog articles on your website are the best first steps for cannabinoid start-ups.
• Marketing cannabinoids takes a while. Be patient, and don’t expect instant results.

At GVB Biopharma, we’re standing by to make your cannabinoid brand dreams into a reality. Contact us today to learn more about our process, and remember we’re standing by as trusted advisors to assist with any cannabinoid marketing questions you may have.

CBD Marketing FAQs

1. How do I market my CBD company?

While any good CBD product is supported by equally good marketing, it’s important to remember that you’re making a product — not the idea of one. As a result, the ultimate key to marketing CBD is providing genuine value in a way shoppers can understand and access. Finding out how to achieve this goal plays out differently for every CBD brand, but it’s nonetheless a universal ideal to pursue.

2. What is the target market for CBD users?

Unlike some products, CBD is essentially universally appealing with people from all walks of life recognizing and desiring its benefits. Young people, for instance, may use CBD for stress relief while older individuals may use it for pain. Everywhere in-between, people use CBD for purposes both familiar and obscure.

3. Are there advertising regulations for CBD?

In the United States, there are no advertising regulations pertaining particularly to CBD, but there are certain regulations under which CBD falls under due to its general categorization. Technically, for instance, the FDA views CBD as a “new” or untested drug, and as a result, it is illegal to make any claims regarding the ability of CBD to treat medical conditions. Instead, producers must simply point shoppers toward relevant information and leave aside any conclusions.

4. How do I make my CBD business successful?

In the end, the best way to ensure your success as a CBD business is to fill a vacant niche within the market that genuinely needs filling. Treat customers as human beings, and recognize that — despite all the fanfare — selling CBD isn’t all that different from selling anything else.

Sources

1. 1. O’Brien, K. (2021, May 25). Brands Are Facing the ‘Age of Cynicism,’ From Skeptical Consumers. Adweek. https://www.adweek.com/agencies/brands-are-facing-the-age-of-cynicism-from-skeptical-consumers/
2. 2. Product Promotion in an Era of Shrinking Attention Span-Indian Journals. (2017). Indian Journals. https://www.indianjournals.com/ijor.aspx?target=ijor:ijemr&volume=7&issue=2&article=014
3. 3. Unique Selling Proposition (USP) – Entrepreneur Small Business Encyclopedia. (2022, March 23). Entrepreneur. https://www.entrepreneur.com/encyclopedia/unique-selling-proposition-usp