The cannabis industry is evolving at an incredible pace. And events like the Cultivators Cup play a crucial role in shaping its future.
More than just a competition, the Cultivators Cup is a celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and community. It brings together cultivators, consumers, and industry leaders in a shared passion for high-quality cannabis.
For Custom 420 Supply, being part of this event isn’t just about sponsorship. It’s about fostering meaningful connections, supporting emerging talent, and showcasing the power of premium packaging in branding success.
As the industry grows, so does the need for creative and cutting-edge solutions. We’re here to help cultivators stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
A Legacy of Sponsorship
Custom 420 Supply has been a proud sponsor of the Cultivators Cup. We provide high-end packaging solutions that enhance both presentation and brand recognition. Here’s a breakdown of our sponsorship over the years:
2019 – Location: TetraHydro Club – Wakefield, RI. This year’s event featured local music artists and vendors, with judging limited to Rhode Island competitors.
2020 – No event due to COVID-19.
2021 – Location: Solar Cannabis Co. Dispensary – Somerset, MA. Hosted by Peter Dante, with a concert headlined by Cypress Hill, Redman, and Method Man.
2022 – Location: Worcester, MA. Sponsored by Nature’s Heritage, with performances from Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Busta Rhymes, Conway the Machine, and Benny the Butcher.
About the Cultivators Cup
The Cultivators Cup was created to spotlight and empower emerging licensed cannabis cultivators while giving consumers the unique opportunity to provide honest feedback on various cannabis and cannabis-infused products.
This event celebrates the cannabis community—bringing people together to welcome, support, and build connections around a shared passion for cannabis.
Attendees from the region are invited to enjoy a safe, vibrant atmosphere featuring world-class entertainment, diverse gourmet food options, artisan and industry vendors, and an unforgettable cannabis experience.
How the Competition is Judged
Starting at a later-to-be-specified date, limited edition “judges’ kits” will be available at a to-be-determined location in Phoenix, Arizona. Each kit includes 28 individual 1-gram samples of flower, carefully curated from licensed cultivators across Arizona.
By purchasing a judges’ kit, participants join a true blind cannabis competition, helping to uncover who grows the finest bud in the desert.
Custom 420 Supply’s Sponsorship
At Custom 420 Supply, supporting the cannabis community isn’t just for marketing—it’s a core part of what we do. Whether through event sponsorship, partnerships, or simply engaging with customers and vendors, we take pride in giving back to the industry that fuels our passion.
Events like the Cultivators Cup provide the perfect opportunity to connect with growers, brands, and enthusiasts, while also allowing us to showcase our premium packaging solutions. Just take a note from Jordan Carlson, aka “The Farmacist” and the man behind the Cultivators Cup:
“Custom 420, those guys did all our packaging and everything you saw for this event [Cultivators Cup]. That packaging was top notch and every year, we plan to keep that packaging cooler and cooler and do something new.”
Beyond brand exposure, these moments are about building relationships and sharing our expertise to help cannabis businesses thrive.
Custom 420 Supply’s Packaging Solutions
For the 2021 and 2022 events, Custom 420 Supply provided a variety of high-quality packaging solutions tailored to different product categories. These included:
Flower Kits – Corrugated master boxes with handles, featuring matte, spot UV, and gold foil finishes.
Pre-roll Kits – Fold and tuck boxes with auto-tuck bottoms and custom paper inserts for 166mm pre-roll tubes.
Pre-roll Tubes – 116mm black child-resistant pre-roll tubes with foil wrap labels.
Concentrate Kits – Corrugated fold and tuck boxes with custom EVA foam inserts.
9ml Concentrate Jars – Opaque black concentrate jars with foil lid labels.
Vape Kits – Fold and tuck boxes with custom paper inserts for vape tubes and pens.
Why the Cultivators Cup?
Sponsoring the Cultivators Cup was an easy decision for Custom 420 Supply. This event brings together some of the most talented cultivators in the industry, giving them a platform to display their craft and compete in a way that elevates cannabis culture.
Our goal was to introduce these innovators to high-end packaging solutions that could set their brands apart. With the competition placing a strong emphasis on top-tier presentation, we wanted to inspire cultivators to think about how their products are perceived in an increasingly competitive market.
By providing cutting-edge packaging options, we help businesses take their branding to the next level.
A Historical Step for Cannabis in New England
The Cultivators Cup is more than just a competition—it’s a movement that has made history in the New England cannabis scene. As the first event in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts to allow licensed operators to compete and be judged by actual consumers, it has set the precedent for the industry’s future.
It was also among the first to permit open cannabis consumption, breaking barriers and paving the way for even more progressive events to follow. These milestones mark significant progress for the cannabis industry in the region, helping to shape a more open and connected community.
Final Word
For Custom 420 Supply, being part of this journey is incredibly rewarding. Sponsoring events like the Cultivators Cup aligns with our mission to support and uplift the cannabis industry while showcasing the power of premium packaging.
As the community continues to grow, we remain committed to innovation, connection, and making a lasting impact.
The 2025 NECANN Cup Boston is set to bring the best of the cannabis industry for an exciting competition that highlights innovation, quality, and craftsmanship.
Running alongside the NECANN Cannabis Convention on March 21st and 22nd at the Hynes Convention Center, this event is a must-attend for cannabis professionals, enthusiasts, and businesses looking to connect, compete, and showcase their latest products. From top-tier flower to cutting-edge edibles and concentrates, the NECANN Cup is a premier platform for recognizing excellence in cannabis.
As the official packaging sponsor, Custom 420 Supply is proud to support this competition by providing high-quality packaging solutions that enhance the integrity and organization of the event. Whether you’re a competitor, attendee, or industry insider, NECANN Boston offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the ever-evolving cannabis market.
What is the Boston NECANN Cup?
The NECANN Cup is a third-party evaluation of the latest cannabis and cannabis products. Those deemed best are awarded the best cannabis products in New England.
This Cup runs alongside the NECANN Cannabis Convention. In short, this event takes place between March 21st and 22nd at the Hynes Convention Center. This is a B2B (business-to-business) marketing event for the cannabis industry, featuring the latest products, vendors, and technology.
If you want to attend this event, you can purchase tickets here for the following prices:
2-Day All Access – $115
2-Day Expo Hall Only – $60
Saturday All Access – $80
Saturday Expo Only – $45
Exhibitor Staff – $500
What is the Address for NECANN?
The 2025 Boston NECANN Cup at:
Hynes Convention Center 900 Boylston St. Boston, MA 02115
This year, NECANN Boston is accepting applications for the following categories:
Hybrid flower
Indica flower
Sativa flower
Solvent concentrate
Pre-roll
Infused pre-roll
Non-solvent vape cartridge
Edible beverage/tincture
Edible chocolate
Edible gummies
Topical
Each category has different requirements for how much needs to be submitted. Therefore, if you’re interested, we highly recommend checking out NECANN’s website for specifics.
Last Year’s First-Place Winners
If you’d like an idea of what you’re up against as a cannabis business owner, here’s a snapshot of 2024’s NECANN Cup first-place winners:
Best Dispensary – Sweetgrass Botanicals Dispensary – Lee, MA
Solvent Concentrate – United Cultivation – Jelly Donuts Live Resin – Ashby, MA
Snacks/Candy – Joy Bombs – CBD 1:1 Sours – Salisbury, MA
Hybrid Flower – Advanced Cultivators – Red Runtz – Lowell, MA
Gummies – Suncrafted Cannabis – Sour Blue Raspberry Rosin Gummies – Middleboro, MA
Chocolate – Emerald Elevation Cannabis Co. – Salted Caramel + Waffle Cone Bar – Eliot, ME
Vape Cartridge – Standard Farms – Mimosa Liquid Live Rosin – Massachusetts
Topical – Peaceful Potions – Chronic Potion – Wareham, MA
Custom 420 Sponsorship
As the official packaging sponsor of the NECANN Cup, Custom 420 plays an integral role in supporting this prestigious cannabis competition. The sponsorship involves collaborating closely with Mike Clinton, the event organizer, to produce high-quality packaging solutions tailored for the event.
Custom 420 Supply provides large corrugated master boxes that are specifically designed to house each competition entry by category. Furthermore, custom labels are created to differentiate boxes and ensure efficient organization.
The box production process includes two different box sizes to accommodate the various competition categories. To elevate the presentation, Custom 420 incorporates a dual-finish design.
The interiors of the boxes have a matte finish with a Spot UV layer to enhance the artwork, while the exteriors boast a glossy finish complemented by a foil layer that highlights specific design elements. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the packaging not only serves its functional purpose but also stands out visually.
Why Custom 420 Sponsors the NECANN Cup
Custom 420’s decision to sponsor the NECANN Cup stems from our recognition of the competition’s integrity and fairness. Operated in strict compliance with Massachusetts state laws established by the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), the NECANN Cup provides an equal opportunity for all participants to showcase their talents and potentially secure a win.
The event organizer, Mike Clinton, is a respected figure in the Massachusetts cannabis community, making a significant honor for Custom 420.
Sponsoring the NECANN Cup also presents an invaluable opportunity for Custom 420 to demonstrate our production capabilities to a broad audience, including competitors, judges, and attendees. As one of the largest cannabis conventions in the country, the Boston NECANN event offers extensive exposure and the chance to connect with key players in the industry.
Fostering Community and Innovation
This year, Custom 420 looks forward to seeing a diverse array of new entries and competitors in the NECANN Cup. The event fosters a sense of community by bringing together various facets of the Massachusetts cannabis industry and beyond.
Through this sponsorship, Custom 420 aims to build meaningful connections while continuing to support the growth and innovation of the cannabis community.
Where Else Do NECANN Competitions Occur?
If you’re interested in NECANN, but don’t live in the Boston area, not to worry! The competition is held in other parts of the country at various times of year. These include:
Massachusetts Cup of Champions (Location TBA)
Registration opens 4/1/2025
Registration closes 7/23/25
Intake opens 8/1/25
Intake closes 8/7/25
NECANN New Jersey (Atlantic City Convention Center)
Registration opens 4/1/25
Registration closes 7/23/25
Intake opens 8/1/25
Intake closes 8/7/25
NECANN New York (NYS Fairgrounds)
Dates for registration TBA
Final Word
With the 2025 NECANN Cup Boston just around the corner, excitement is building for what promises to be a standout event in the cannabis industry. From recognizing the top cannabis products in New England to fostering industry connections, this competition plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and excellence.
For Custom 420, sponsoring the NECANN Cup is more than just providing premium packaging—it’s about supporting a fair and respected competition while engaging with the broader cannabis community. As we look forward to the competition, we’re eager to see the talent, creativity, and passion that define this growing industry. Whether participating or attending, the NECANN Cup is an event you won’t want to miss!
Simply put, “die-cut” means a sticker that is cut around the shape of your design. In other words, most stickers come in standard shapes (i.e. circle, square, or rectangle), whereas die-cut stickers are completely customizable to your artwork.
Brands use “die-cut” for various purposes. In most instances, it’s to show off brand identity (i.e. through a logo sticker). However, packaging can also come in these customizable cuts (i.e. die-cut boxes).
Origins of Die-Cut
Die-cutting began in the shoe industry in the mid-1800s. More specifically, it allowed holes to be punched into shoes manually to create individual sole patterns. Most were made using leather and die-cutting allowed shoemakers cost-effective mass production.
Today, die-cutting has found a variety of uses across many industries. However, in regards to cannabis, it’s often used to create unique packaging and stickers. As you’ll see, these customization elements are a great way to get customers more involved in your brand.
What are the Benefits of Die-Cut Stickers?
On the surface, die-cut stickers give more emphasis to your brand. Whether you die-cut a logo or a mascot, these stickers effectively allow brand elements to stand out to customers.
However, on a deeper level, die-cut stickers can be used for customer retention. One of the elements customers take away from cannabis products is the unboxing experience. Naturally, you need high-quality packaging that gives customers an interactive feeling. But if you match this interaction with free stickers representing your brand, you’re taking the unboxing experience one step further.
61% of shoppers feel greater excitement about receiving a package when the packaging features branded designs.
In 2022, 59% of packaging included branding elements.
52% of buyers state that high-quality premium packaging motivates them to make repeat purchases.
Personalized packaging can boost consumer loyalty by up to 40%.
Naturally, you’ll want to place more of your efforts on the packaging design itself. However, if you throw in some personalized die-cut stickers to match, it will only elevate you amongst the competition.
Difference Between Die-Cut vs Kiss-Cut Stickers
In short, kiss-cut stickers are only cut through the vinyl. However, the paper backing stays in a standard shape (i.e. a square). Some brands use this to add an extra style to the sticker design. Still, such efforts aren’t 100% necessary as the main feature of both die-cut and kiss-cut is the sticker itself.
How to Order Custom Die-Cut Stickers
If you’re a business and want to outsource these stickers, the process is super simple. At Custom 420, we offer wholesale stickers at an exceptional value in various materials (such as matte, gloss, and specialty foil). On top of that, we can print die-cut stickers with Raised Spot UV.
Furthermore, we have an in-house design team that can assist in your sticker design if you’re not sure of the direction you want to take.
We invite you to check out our Cannabis Packaging Design Services page to learn more about this process. If you decide to work with us, we will print all stickers in-house and ship them directly to you. If you have questions about the process, please reach out to us through our contact forum.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to make die-cut stickers in Canva?
If you want to use Canva to design a die-cut sticker, you’ll want to take the following steps:
1. Design your sticker directly on the application. 2. Export the design, ensuring you follow the border and bleed requirements of your cutting machine. 3. Upload the design to your cutting machine. 4. Load the printable vinyl sheets. 5. Start the machine to cut your stickers.
Are die-cut stickers waterproof?
A die-cut sticker can be waterproof, depending on the material used. Vinyl is one of the most commonly used materials for stickers and is water-proof.
Can you make die-cut stickers with Cricut?
Yes, you can use a Cricut machine to make a die-cut sticker. In fact, this is one of its primary functions. Simply look for the “die cut” option in Cricut Design Space to develop your sticker design.
Most cannabis businesses outsource direct-print jars with lids. This is a convenient way to streamline the manufacturing process and allow entrepreneurs to focus on other important areas of their company, such as product quality.
However, if you’re new to this industry, you may not know the best place to outsource this packaging style. The purpose of this blog is to inform you that when you outsource direct-print jars, you want to make sure that the company you buy from:
1.) Knows the Cannabis Industry
While you have many options to purchase direct-print jars with lids in bulk, you want to work with a company directly invested in the cannabis industry. Why? There are two important reasons:
Legal Requirements
When it comes to cannabis packaging, each state has a set of rules that must be followed. Some of the most common include the requirement of child-resistance and tamper-evident.
However, laws go beyond the packaging itself. Brands must also ensure their labels meet state compliance, including information such as a THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) warning and cannabinoid content.
Since each state’s regulations differ, you want to work with a brand that knows these differences.
Branding Elements
A high-quality packaging supplier will know how to incorporate your brand into your product. This goes beyond slapping a logo on it and calling it a day. There are a lot of design features that must be considered when it comes to product packaging.
For example, the color palette of packaging plays a major role in your customer’s first impression. Are you going for a luxurious or minimalist look? The right packaging company will ensure your color choices and other design elements match your vision.
2.) Provides Material That Protects Cannabis Products
Not all packaging companies operate the same and some will cut corners by using low-quality materials. While this will provide you with a lower price point, it can also be detrimental to transportation and the customer experience.
Products like cannabis flower and edibles are very delicate and require a container that can withstand breakage. However, such products go beyond this – they also require protection from elements such as UV lights.
Due to the complex nature of the marijuana plant, you have several material options for direct-print jars with lids. Personally, we recommend opaque and UV jars. These ensure light protection while also containing the freshness and potency of your product.
Regardless of your decision, you must do business with a company that can provide high-quality material. How can you determine this? Look into their manufacturing process. If this isn’t advertised, then be sure to inquire about it when you receive a consultation.
3.) Can Ensure Prompt Delivery
The cannabis industry moves fast. Depending on the success of your products, you may need rapid restocking of your packaging. In such circumstances, you need to be able to rely on a company that can provide prompt delivery.
Based on your sales output, determine how much packaging you’ll need and how regularly you’ll need it. Then ask your packaging company of choice if they can provide you with this quota.
Admittedly, most brands are trying to get a sale. It can help to look into customer reviews to determine how true the word of a packaging company is.
4.) Keeps Up-to-Date on Industry Trends
The cannabis industry is constantly changing and you want to ensure the packaging company you work with is up-to-date on these trends. But what exactly do they need to look out for?
One of the most important elements is your state’s regulations. Chances are your local lawmakers are constantly fidgeting with marijuana laws. And you want a packaging company aware of when these changes are made. This will ensure your products are always state-compliant and never put you at risk of legal repercussions.
Furthermore, the customers for marijuana products are also changing. Currently, two-thirds of Americans support recreational legalization. That’s more than double the support seen twenty years ago.
As you can imagine, with this change in perspective comes an adjustment in the consumer type purchasing your products. Therefore, you want your packaging to match those who are most interested in your brand.
The right packaging company stays up-to-date on industry trends and carefully watches the market to see where the money is coming from.
Final Word
Need a packaging company to source direct-print jars with lids in wholesale? Want to make sure the company your choosing hits all the essential elements featured in this blog?
Custom 420 has you covered! If you’d like to learn more, we invite you to reach out through our contact form.
In the cannabis industry, blister packaging can be an effective option, depending on your product. However, this may not fit your brand or product selection best. We invite you to follow along as we lay out everything you need to know about blister packs.
What is Blister Packaging?
Blister pack packaging is created by heating a plastic sheet and shaping it into a bubble or pocket, known as the “blister.” This encases the entirety of your product, allowing customers to see what they’re purchasing visually.
Traditionally, blister packaging has a cardboard back, known as “face seal blister.” The plastic blister sits in front of the cardboard and contains the product. On the cardboard are elements of your brand identity and other important information.
If your product has a consistent shape, you can uniformly shape the blister to match the product’s outline. However, if your product doesn’t have consistency, you can opt for other shapes (e.g., rectangular, oval, etc.).
Can You Use Blister Packs for Cannabis Products?
Some cannabis products incorporate blister card packaging. The most popular are vaping products, where the blister is made in the shape of a disposable vape pen or cartridge.
Some brands also incorporate blisters for concentrate items. Usually, the concentrate is in a transparent jar which is then blistered onto cardboard.
While you can get creative with your custom blister box, not all products will benefit from this type of packaging. For example, customers prefer flower and edibles in other packaging types, such as Mylar bags.
What are the Types of Blister Packaging?
Blister packaging can appear in the following ways:
Face Seal Blister
The plastic blister is shaped to fit around the product and then heat-sealed to a cardboard backing. This form of blister packaging is relatively cost-effective, making it ideal for high-volume products.
Full-Face Seal Blister
The blister encases both the product and the card backing entirely. The plastic is secured to the card either by heat sealing or by sliding it through extra plastic reinforcements on the sides.
This design enhances the packaging’s durability, by making the corners more resistant to bending while also improving their appearance.
Full Card Blister
Similar to a full-face seal blister, this packaging covers the entire card. However, instead of being heat-sealed, it features flanges that wrap around the edges of the card. The card is slid into position and occasionally secured with staples.
Trapped Blister
A trapped blister is similar to a traditional blister pack, but with an added layer of cardboard in front of the plastic, shaped to fit around the blister. This design secures the plastic between the two pieces of cardboard, with the top layer die-cut to hold the product snugly.
Since it doesn’t rely on heat-sealing, this method is more cost-effective. It also enhances tamper resistance, as any attempt to remove the product visibly damages the outer cardboard. Additionally, it offers a more polished appearance by minimizing exposure to plastic.
Clamshell
Clamshell packaging, also known as clam packaging or clam packs, replaces the cardboard backing with a hinged plastic design, connected at the side or the base. Some clamshells are crafted to stand upright on store shelves, while others include a hole for hanging on racks.
They can feature a snap-close button or be heat-sealed for added security. The plastic bubble may have a uniform shape on both sides or vary in size and form to accommodate the product inside.
Pros and Cons of Blister Packaging
If you run a cannabis business and are considering blister packs for your products, here are some things to consider:
Pros
Eco-friendly – All blister packs are made with plastic and cardboard, both recyclable materials.
Lightweight – Blister and clam packaging are very lightweight, reducing transportation costs.
Protection – Blister packs protect the product from damage and keep it clean. They also reveal tampering, unlike boxes that can be opened and reclosed unnoticed.
Theft Protection – Designed in unique shapes, making it difficult for shoplifters to conceal.
Visually Appealing – Blister packs showcase the product directly, catching the customer’s eye and making it stand out compared to boxed items.
Cons
Plastic Waste – While plastic is recyclable, if consumers are not mindful, blister packs can create a lot of waste.
Time-Intensive Production – Takes longer to manufacture than other packaging options.
Final Word
Blister packaging is a very effective option for certain cannabis products, such as vape pens and cartridges. This is thanks to the fact that it gives your product transparency other brands may not offer.
Interested in using blister packs for your next product? Not sure where to begin? Custom 420 is here to help! We invite you to reach out through our contact form to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the problem with blister packaging?
The only problems with blister packaging are they can be pricier and require more time for production than other packaging options.
Is blister packaging cheap?
Blister packs are considered one of the most cost-effective packaging options. This is thanks to the fact that they’re made from paperboard and plastic, two inexpensive materials.
What is the point of a blister pack?
Since the plastic blister allows transparency for customers, it tends to leave a solid first impression. Furthermore, blister packaging allows you to get creative with your customization and showcase your brand identity.
