Budist Newsletter: Big News on Retail
Dear Friends,
Budist is off to a fast start to 2025 as we enter the retail market and continue to break new ground. Our Budist Retail Program takes our extensive database of product reviews and syndicates them on the shelves of partner retail stores, helping brands and retailers to boost revenue at point-of-sale.
We’re also excited to announce the expansion of our Budist community. The demand from cannabis professionals and enthusiasts has been overwhelming, so we’ve expanded the role of the Budist to new areas of expertise that can better serve the market and fulfill our mission.
Learn more about these exciting new developments in this issue of our monthly newsletter, and be sure not to miss our schedule of upcoming events!
With Gratitude,
Jocelyn Sheltraw
Co-Founder & CEO
Budist Retail Program
Our Budist Retail Program brings proven retail strategies from wine, spirits, and specialty foods into cannabis. Just like wine ratings drive sales, organic certifications build trust, and award labels highlight excellence, Budist shelf talkers help retailers guide customers to the best products with confidence. Our curated displays spotlight Top-Rated Products, Best Value Products, Award Winners, Sustainability Certifications, and Geographical Origins—driving engagement, increasing basket sizes, and elevating the shopping experience. Ready to see the impact? Want to learn more? Read this recent LinkedIn announcement for more details or contact us to join our pilot program and start converting more customers today!
Budist Community Expands
In 2025, we’re expanding what it means to be a Budist by introducing new specialized roles beyond the traditional critic, including Competition Judge, Educator, Concierge, Sommelier and Ambassador. These new tiers allow Budists to leverage their unique expertise, deepen their impact, and engage with the community in more dynamic ways. Whether reviewing products, setting industry benchmarks, educating consumers, curating sensory experiences, or providing personalized recommendations, there’s a role for every enthusiast who wants to develop their expertise as a cannabis professional. Interested in becoming a Budist? Apply here.
Upcoming Events
Join Budist for two unforgettable events this March. On March 1 in Northeast LA, Big Spicy will take guests on a culinary journey through the history of spices and cannabis in ancient Asia, featuring a four-course meal by Chef Wendy Zeng and Christina Wong, expertly paired with live rosin cultivars from Ay Papi, Bear Labs, Dee Thai, and Fire King Hash. A portion of the $200 ticket proceeds will support rebuilding the Altadena Community Garden. Then, on March 15 in San Diego, the Farmers Cup Awards Sesh will celebrate the best in cannabis at the first licensed event of its kind in the region. Expect an immersive experience with top cultivators, brands, exotic foods, live music, and a vibrant community of cannabis enthusiasts.