Owen Papworth, Co-Founder & COO of Oregonix – Interview Series

Craft cannabis production in Illinois has faced significant hurdles, with only a fraction of licensed growers operational by mid-October of 2023, as reported by Marijuana Moment. Despite the challenges, Oregonix has emerged as a resilient player in this landscape, successfully navigating the complexities of operating a licensed craft cultivation facility in the state. Their persistence has enabled them to bring highly sought-after craft cannabis to the legal market, contributing to the diversity and quality of offerings available to consumers.

Owen Papworth, Co-Founder and COO of Oregonix, has been instrumental in steering the company through the rigorous journey of becoming operational as a licensed craft grower in Illinois. Oregonix prides itself on its commitment to quality and innovation, evident in its flagship brand, Northern Heights, positioned as a premium offering in the Illinois cannabis market. Through meticulous cultivation processes and a dedication to meeting the high standards expected by cannabis enthusiasts, Oregonix aims to carve out a distinctive niche in the competitive landscape, offering unique strains like Super Boof, Sherb Cake, Strawberry Gary, and Bomb Sauce to cater to the preferences of Illinois consumers.

MyCannabis: Can you share some insights into the journey Oregonix undertook to become operational as a licensed craft grower in Illinois?

Owen: The journey involved rigorous planning, compliance with stringent state regulations, and securing funding. Illinois has a competitive application process for cannabis licenses, emphasizing security, community benefits, and product quality. Oregonix had to demonstrate a high level of proficiency in all these areas, from cultivation practices to business operations, to secure a license.

MyCannabis: Northern Heights is being positioned as a premium brand in the Illinois cannabis market. How does Oregonix ensure that its cultivation processes and final products meet the high standards expected by cannabis enthusiasts in such a competitive landscape?

Owen: To meet the high standards expected by enthusiasts and stand out in the competitive Illinois market, Oregonix focuses on quality control from seed to sale. This includes selecting premium genetics, optimizing growing conditions (like environmental control  and lighting), and implementing thorough testing for potency and purity. We also conduct extensive training to our staff and use a detailed quality control program.

MyCannabis: With only a limited number of operational craft growers in Illinois, how does Oregonix view its role in addressing this challenge and contributing positively to the market dynamics, particularly with the launch of Northern Heights?

Owen: Oregonix contributes positively by showcasing the benefits of craft cannabis, such as unique strains, artisanal cultivation techniques, and localized business practices. By offering high-quality, differentiated products like Northern Heights, we address market gaps and cater to discerning consumers. It is our hope that in doing this consumers will raise their expectations of quality from cannabis producers across Illinois.

MyCannabis: What are some of the unique aspects of the strains featured in Northern Heights—Super Boof, Sherb Cake, Strawberry Gary, and Bomb Sauce—and how were they selected to appeal to the preferences of cannabis consumers in Illinois?

Owen: Strains like Super Boof, Sherb Cake, Strawberry Gary, and Bomb Sauce were chosen for their unique flavor profiles, effects, and appeal to Illinois consumers. Selection criteria included potency, terpene profiles, growth characteristics, and consumer trends. These strains offer a mix of cerebral and physical effects, catering to both recreational and medicinal users looking for quality and novelty.

MyCannabis: Looking ahead, what are some of the key opportunities and challenges that Oregonix anticipates in the evolving cannabis market of Illinois, and how does the company plan to navigate them while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation?

Owen: The evolving cannabis market in Illinois presents opportunities in expanding product lines, entering new markets, and leveraging technological innovations in cultivation and product development. Challenges include regulatory changes, competition, and market saturation. To navigate these, Oregonix focuses on sustaining product excellence, engaging in advocacy and community involvement, and exploring new product development to maintain its commitment to quality and innovation.

It was a great pleasure to have this conversation with Owen Papworth, Co-Founder and COO of Oregonix. Readers are encouraged to check out their website to learn more about how this company is shaping the cannabis industry.