Cannabis Industry Printing Challenges 

A large legal cannabis distribution company in California was quickly expanding by acquiring smaller brands and distribution centers. As the company grew, so did the challenges related to their printing needs.  

California’s state regulations require detailed printed information on every cannabis product. These requirements significantly increase the distributor’s print volume and add complexity with each new acquisition. 

Initial Issues: Disorganized and Expensive Printing 

The previous printing process of this cannabis company was fragmented and lacked efficiency. Each location managed its own printing operations independently, relying on small inkjet printers and local devices that were insufficient for the required print volumes.  

This decentralized approach resulted in needlessly high costs, with the distributor spending extra on pre-printed packaging from several 3rd party vendors and online sources. The absence of a standardized printing system limited their ability to adapt to regulatory changes or branding updates, creating additional operational challenges. 

Optimizing Print Operations with Flex Technology Group 

Caltronics, (part of the Flex Technology Group family of companies), partnered with this cannabis company to streamline their printing process. They proposed bringing print production in-house to centralize operations and improve efficiency.  

By introducing variable data printing technology (VDP) (also known as variable information printing (VIP) the distributor could now modify each label within a single print run without additional costs. This allows this company to quickly adapt to regulatory changes and branding updates.  

Key Outcomes: Cost Reduction and Improved Compliance 

This cannabis company achieved significant improvements in both cost savings and operational effectiveness. By centralizing their printing operations and moving production in-house, the distributor reduced costs by eliminating third-party vendors for pre-printed materials and streamlined their previously inefficient setup.  

This new unified approach implemented by Caltronics (part of FlexTG) ensures consistent print quality across all locations and simplified compliance with evolving state regulations. The addition of high-volume copiers and a managed print program further optimized their maintenance and supplies management, reducing potential downtime. As a result, the client is now able to produce cost-effective, branded cannabis labels that can be easily updated to meet regulatory requirements. 

Preparing for Continued Growth 

• Working with Caltronics transformed the cannabis company’s printing process from a costly, fragmented operation into a streamlined, efficient system.  
• The new print setup supports rapid expansion, enhanced regulatory compliance, and provides the flexibility needed to adapt to industry changes.  
• This comprehensive managed print solution positions the distributor to effectively meet the challenges of the rapidly evolving cannabis market.