Berner, born Gilbert Milam Jr. on October 27, 1981, is a name that resonates across the cannabis industry. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and strong influence on cannabis culture, Berner has made a lasting impact on the marijuana world, transcending his roots as a hip-hop artist to become a major figure in cannabis entrepreneurship.
The Rise to Fame
Berner first garnered attention as a rapper, becoming a part of the West Coast music scene. His unique style, blending street wisdom with heartfelt lyrics, earned him a dedicated fanbase. Berner’s music career saw collaborations with various artists, including Wiz Khalifa, and his albums have featured cannabis-centric themes, which would later tie into his business ventures.
However, it was Berner’s entry into the cannabis business that truly catapulted him into the realm of business moguls. A longtime cannabis enthusiast, Berner used his celebrity status to build a brand that became synonymous with premium cannabis culture. He is best known as the founder of Cookies, a global cannabis brand that started in California and has since expanded internationally.
The Birth of Cookies
Founded in 2012, Cookies started as a small cannabis dispensary in California. Berner and his partner, Jay “Jigga” McFarland, recognized the untapped potential in the cannabis market and set out to create a brand that would represent high-quality cannabis products. Their vision was simple yet powerful: to offer top-tier strains that would set a new standard in the industry.
Today, Cookies is one of the most recognizable cannabis brands in the world. Known for its distinctive blue and white packaging and its potent cannabis strains, Cookies has expanded its reach, with retail locations across North America and partnerships across the globe. Berner’s savvy marketing and ability to blend cannabis culture with high-end branding have made Cookies a household name.
Berner’s Influence on Cannabis Culture
What sets Berner apart from other entrepreneurs in the cannabis space is his deep understanding of cannabis culture. He has been able to merge his passion for cannabis with his music career, creating a lifestyle brand that appeals to both marijuana users and hip-hop fans alike. This unique crossover has made Berner a cultural icon and an ambassador for cannabis legalization.
Through Cookies, Berner has launched various cannabis products, from flower strains to edibles and concentrates, each bearing his personal touch and commitment to quality. He has also played a pivotal role in bringing attention to the importance of craft cannabis, emphasizing the need for top-quality cultivation and processing in the marijuana market.
As a public figure, Berner has used his platform to advocate for cannabis legalization, education, and social justice. His support for causes like equity in cannabis businesses and expungement of marijuana-related criminal records has made him a voice for change in an industry that is still navigating complex regulatory and social issues.
Expansion and Business Ventures
Beyond the success of Cookies, Berner has expanded his entrepreneurial portfolio into multiple ventures. He has developed a clothing line, Cookies Clothing, which has further strengthened the brand’s cultural relevance. His collaborations with major brands in fashion and cannabis continue to grow, offering fans and consumers a complete lifestyle experience.
Berner has also created The Berner Collection, a premium line of marijuana accessories, which includes everything from glass pipes to rolling papers. His strategic approach to branding, along with his keen sense of timing in the cannabis market, has made Berner a prominent force in both the cannabis and lifestyle sectors.
A Legacy in the Making
With his enduring commitment to quality, social justice, and the cannabis community, Berner’s influence is undeniable. What began as a small dispensary in California has blossomed into a global cannabis empire, and his role as a leader in the industry shows no signs of slowing down.
As cannabis continues to gain acceptance across the globe, Berner’s journey from rapper to cannabis mogul serves as an inspiring testament to the power of entrepreneurship, passion, and cultural relevance. His story is one of perseverance, vision, and success, and Berner has undoubtedly earned his place as one of the true Cannabis Kings of the modern era.
