The cannabis industry’s next phase of growth will reward operators who do more than generate revenue. In The Other Magazine‘s September 12, 2026 article, “The Cannabis Exit Strategy Most Operators Aren’t Thinking About Yet,” William S. Barrett, CEO of Mandelbaum Barrett PC, and Joshua S. Bauchner, Chair of the firm’s Cannabis, Hemp & Psychedelics Practice Group, discuss the business fundamentals that drive long-term value in a rapidly evolving market.
In their article, Bill and Josh explore an often-overlooked aspect of cannabis business planning: enterprise value. While many operators understandably focus on growth, licensing, compliance, and day-to-day operations, the authors explain why business owners should begin thinking about valuation long before a sale, investment, or strategic partnership is on the horizon.
Drawing on their experience advising business owners in acquisitions, growth transactions, and highly regulated industries, Bill and Josh discuss the factors that sophisticated investors and buyers evaluate beyond revenue, including financial reporting, compliance history, operational systems, contracts, management structure, and brand protection. The article highlights how strong infrastructure and documentation can increase a company’s value and create future opportunities for capital raises, expansion, partnerships, ownership transitions, or eventual sale.
The authors also examine common issues that can quietly diminish company value, such as founder dependency, informal business practices, and inadequate recordkeeping, while offering practical guidance for cannabis operators seeking to build sustainable, long-term businesses in the evolving New York and New Jersey markets.
Read the full article here.