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MJBizCon 2023: Vape-Jet Returns to the Arena

MJBizCon 2023 has wrapped, and it’s clear that this year’s event was more than just a gathering – it was a testament to the resilience and progress of the cannabis industry. The Vape-Jet team was excited to return, showcasing our latest innovations and reconnecting with our community.

This year’s booth set up.
Carol and Jonathan from the Inferno team dropped by the booth.

This year, we observed a shift in the atmosphere. Despite a strong presence of exhibitors, overall attendance was noticeably lower than in previous years. However, this didn’t detract from the experience; it seemed to enhance the quality of interactions. The attendees who were present appeared more invested and established in the industry. Unlike past years, where curiosity led many to explore, this year’s crowd was distinctly serious and committed to the business.

A look at our crew in action on the 2023 show floor.

Vape-Jet’s Showcase Highlights

This year at MJBizCon, Vape-Jet showcased our latest technological advancements. Our booth featured the latest iterations of our Vape-Jet fully automatic and Jet Fueler semi-automatic vape cartridge and device filling machines, prototypes of our Fuel Injector pre-roll infusion solution, and the sleek new Flight Deck base cabinets. But what truly stole the show was the first iteration of our Dab Dispenser – a glimpse into the future of cannabis processing and packaging efficiency.

The response from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the hard work and dedication we’ve poured into these products. As Sawyer Sheppard, our Sales Lead, aptly put it, “MJBiz 2023 was the culmination of a year of hard work. It was a moment to celebrate what we as an industry have done this year.“

Vape-Jet 4.0 fully automatic cartridge and device filling machine.
Dab Dispenser semi-automatic jar filling machine.

Networking and Partnerships

Networking at MJBizCon 2023 was a highlight, with the Vape-Jet team forging new relationships and reconnecting with valued clients. The power of customer satisfaction was evident, as our loyal clients enthusiastically introduced us to potential partners. Brian Kuo, our CFO and Co-Founder, reflected, “We had a fantastic time reconnecting with our valued clients and forging new relationships within the industry.“

After hours at this year’s convention was prime networking time. Vape-Jet brought a one of a kind experience to the Good Life Gang’s much-anticipated annual event. Embracing our innovative spirit, our CEO and Founder Ryan Hoitt (along with several members of our manufacturing crew) transformed our latest product, the Dab Dispenser, into a one-of-a-kind attraction: the first-ever dab dispensing slot machine. This endeavor involved retrofitting the design with a 1960s era slot machine arm, custom coding, all complemented by an e-nail and a bespoke dab rig, ingeniously designed by John Mark from the Sci Phy Systems team using extraction equipment parts.

This invention was not just a showpiece but became a focal point for interaction, drawing in both extractors and consumers. It offered a novel way for attendees to engage and connect, embodying the inventive and collaborative spirit of the cannabis industry. The dab dispensing slot machine, a blend of technology and fun, resonated with the Vegas vibe, making it a crowd favorite and a topic of conversation throughout the rest of the week.

Reflections on Growth and Community

Looking back at our journey since our first MJBizCon in 2020, the evolution of Vape-Jet has been remarkable. Devon Reid, our CSO and Co-Founder, reminisced, “The first time we attended MjBizCon in 2020, we easily blended into the crowd. Three exhibitions later in 2023, some of the most doubtful people we met in 2020 have become some of our best customers.” This transformation from newcomers to recognized industry leaders is a testament to the quality of our products and the strength of our community.

Elena from Cilicon talking tech with Vape-Jet brand rep Demetre.
Vape-Jet Sales Lead Sawyer showing an attendee the software side of our Jet Fueler semi-automatic filling machine.

MJBizCon 2023 was a testament to the spirit of innovation and collaboration that drives us at Vape-Jet. We’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with our industry peers, celebrate our customers’ achievements, and look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of cannabis technology.

Stay tuned for more updates from Vape-Jet, and if you missed us at MJBizCon, reach out to learn more about our cutting-edge cannabis processing solutions or sign up to receive our monthly newsletter of industry news and company updates.

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Events

Coming Up: Vape-Jet in Vegas

It’s that time of the year again! MJBizCon 2023 is just around the corner, and the Vape-Jet crew will be exhibiting for the third year in a row. From November 28th to December 1st, the Las Vegas Convention Center will become the epicenter of the industry, hosting the largest cannabis conference and expo. Prepare to be part of a one-of-a-kind experience filled with insights, networking, and the market’s most innovative products and technology

What to Expect at MJBizCon

MJBizCon 2023 promises a comprehensive agenda, covering everything from finance and marketing to science and psychedelics. The event kicks off with pre-show forums on November 28th. The re-designed expo is open November 29th through December 1st, and will feature four segmented pavilions – Cultivation Products & Services, Retail & Dispensary, Business Services, and Processing, Packaging & Lab Services where you’ll find us!

The conference, curated by MJBizDaily editors, will span three days, filled with actionable insights to help you navigate the industry’s current challenges.

VJ at MJ

We’re excited to showcase our latest innovations at booth #2222, located in the Central Hall, just inside from the registration area. From November 29th to December 1st, visit us to see our state-of-the-art equipment including:

We will also have all of our latest accessories like the Fuel Injector pre-roll infusion solution, the Flight Deck base cabinet, and the Drop Tank reservoir pre-heater.

Meet the Vape-Jet Crew

Our executive team, including CEO and Founder Ryan Hoitt, CFO and Co-Founder Brian Kuo, and CSO and Co-Founder Devon Reid, will be available throughout the week. Set up a meeting to connect with them or chat with other team members like our Sales Lead Sawyer Sheppard, Product Support Expert Nathan “Nate-Jet” Kinney, and Creative Director Carly Hoitt.

We’re excited to have some of our valued customers join us again this year. You’ll meet Jonathan Winn (Director of Manufacturing at Inferno), Larry Decristofaro (Director of Processing at Proper Brands), and Demetre Janness (Cannabis Consultant and the founder of Terp Logic). They’re not just industry experts; they’re machine operators who understand the day-to-day advantages of our Vape-Jet technology.

Events and After Hours at MJBizCon

Grab your tickets for Good Life Gang events! This year’s theme is “The Path to Profitability,” focusing on the best in the business for extraction. Vape-Jet is excited to be a sponsor of the GLG after hours party on Wednesday, November 29th. This annual event is a highlight for extractors, processors, and manufacturers, offering a perfect mix of great food, hash, and networking opportunities.

We’re also participating in the GLG MJBizCon Expo Passport event on the show floor, guiding attendees through a curated path of extraction-related products, technologies, and services. And be sure to check out the Path to Profitability Symposium on Thursday, November 30th, featuring industry leaders discussing success strategies in the current extraction market.

Say Hello to Our Partners and Friends

We’re proud to be exhibiting alongside leading companies in the industry. Make sure to visit these booths at the show: AVD #6413, Cilicon #5129, iKrusher #7618, Greentank #2419, CCELL #4418, BOLD #5333, RollPros #2224, Abstrax #6311, Good Life Gang #3844, Luna Technologies #4147, Sci Phy Systems #2936, and Dablicator #5608.

See You in Vegas!

Come by booth #2222 to meet the crew, grab some brand new merch items, and find out about our exclusive show floor specials available only at MJBizCon.

Here’s a look at last year to get you hyped, we can’t wait to catch up!

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MJBizCon 2022: Vape-Jet Has Leveled Up 

Three days of cannabis industry pandemonium in Las Vegas? Must be MJBizCon 2022!  

With over 30,000 attendees, industry insiders, and celebrity cameos, this year’s MJBizCon was one to remember. The Vape-Jet booth was packed, our fully-automatic Vape-Jet vape cartridge-filling machine and semi-automatic Jet Fueler took center stage, and our industry friends are thriving—what more could you ask for? 

See how it all went down and why this MJBizCon was the best yet: 

The Evolution of VJ at MJ

Among the returnees to MJBizCon this year, Vape-Jet founder and CEO Ryan Hoitt had a great time reconnecting with friends and introducing newcomers to the world of vape cartridge-filling automation. 

To Ryan, the differences from 2019 to 2022 couldn’t be starker: “In 2019, we walked around, smuggling in brochures and doing guerrilla marketing trying not to get caught.” In those days, Vape-Jet was a fairly new concept, and the potential of an automatic cartridge-filler was not as obvious as it is today. “Our handouts got trashed faster than we could place them, but it brought in just enough interest to bootstrap the first couple of sales,” Ryan recalls. 

In 2021, we set up our first Vape-Jet booth, allowing us to build some brand awareness and connect with folks interested in innovation. “People were starting to take notice, and sales were climbing,” Ryan says. 

If 2019 and 2021 were focused on establishing our brand and generating interest, 2022 was the payoff. “We had to take off our branded shirts just to get a moment of silence during after-hours events and date nights,” Ryan says. “People came purposefully to see us in person. All around town, we ran into existing clients, formed relationships with new ones, and got to experience our 10 seconds of fame.”  

This development, though not entirely surprising given the rapid growth of automated vape-filling processes, was very special to behold. “When we started building a B2B vape cartridge-filling equipment brand, I never for a moment thought we would experience so much recognition, admiration, and command such respect in the industry.” 

“I am incredibly proud of the entire Vape-Jet team for making this a possibility, and I can’t wait to see what 2023 brings.” 

Partners and Friends at MJ

It was great seeing so many familiar faces this year, including: 

Hardware Partners 

Customers 

Equipment Manufacturers 

Terpene Suppliers 

Media

The Evolution of the Vape Market 

Of course, Ryan wasn’t our only representative at MJBizCon. Resident chemist, COO, and co-founder Devon Reid also made his return to the tradeshow floor this year.  

Aside from being chased around MJBizCon (until he took off his branded gear), Devon notes a decisive industry focus on improving QA. “The market is shifting from a fixation on throughput to a focus on quality,” Devon says. “The renewed focus on quality encompasses not only the machine that puts the oil into the cartridges, but the cartridges themselves, the oil itself, the upstream processes for obtaining the oil, and the downstream consequences of implementing all the upstream quality improvements.” 

Why? Because a surplus of supply means customers are faced with more options than ever before. Now, Devon says, many businesses are taking a holistic approach to product planning. “From high-quality equipment to high-quality products, businesses see the positive consequences for end-users (increased sales) and employees (increased retention).” 

Utilizing automatic cartridge-fillers like our Vape-Jet fully-automatic filling machine is a surefire way to improve customer and employee satisfaction. “Fire in, fire out—it’s that simple,” Devon says. 

The Evolution of Vape Producers 

Vape-Jet sales rep Sawyer Sheppard has seen his share of cannabis industry tradeshows and has developed a keen eye for industry trends and matching customers with solutions that fit their long-term goals.  

At MJBizCon 2022, Sawyer highlights a key theme: versatility. “With the rise in different form factors—including disposables, pod-type systems, and higher quality oils like live resin and rosin—heating up in the market, versatility is the name of the game.” 

To improve their versatility, Sawyer noticed that brands are increasingly looking for partnerships. “Many customers are now looking for long-term equipment suppliers that they can grow with,” Sawyer says, emphasizing the word “growth.” “After being burned by tone-deaf ‘product support teams,’ businesses want a partner who is not just selling them equipment, but is dedicated to their long-term growth.” 

MJBizCon Session: Vape Market Breakdown

What’s happening in the vape market as we enter 2023? Industry trends took center stage as insiders discussed consumer and quality developments heading into the new year.  

If you weren’t able to attend, don’t worry, here are some key highlights: 

Consumer Trends 
  • Women now account for 57% of vape cartridge users 
  • Consumers increasingly focus on cannabis growers due to live and solventless processes, whole plant efficacy, and the cannabis marketing ecosystem 
  • Speakers emphasized good manufacturing practices that keep formulations simple and test at every stage of the process 
Quality Trends 
  • It has never been more important to hire people who really love cannabis 
  • Shelf stability is essential, but old cannabis shouldn’t be written off 
  • The days of scarcity are over, so diversification of products is paramount 
What’s Next? 
  • Freeze-dried flowers, cannabis experiences (lounges, serving, sampling, pallet development) 
  • States requiring vapor testing during production 
  • New vape sizes and cannabinoid focus coming to market 

‘Till MJBizCon 2023!

We want to extend a sincere “thank you” to everyone who made it to our booth this year! MJBizCon 2022 could not have been the success it was for our team without your support, and we look forward to building off the positive energy we received. The cannabis industry is driven by innovators who prioritize product quality, responsible scaling, and versatile technology, and we are proud to continue leading the charge in vape cartridge automation. 

If you are interested in partnering with us, reach out to our crew to learn how Vape-Jet can provide next-level products for your customers.   

While you’re at it, don’t forget to sign up for our monthly Re:Fill newsletter to get early access to company updates, product releases, and other exciting announcements. Follow us on the essentials, too: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.