Josh Kesselmann | CEO of RAW

HBI Innovations Announces Legal Victory Over International Copycats

HBI Innovations, led by founder Josh Kesselman, secures legal victory against international copycats impersonating the company. Following a Forum arbitration panel decision, the domain hbiglobcompany.com was rightfully transferred to HBI Innovations after it was found to be operating in "opportunistic bad faith," misleading consumers by mimicking HBI’s branding and logo. The panel cited a high likelihood of confusion due to impersonation attempts. Kesselman emphasized that protecting brand authenticity and community trust is a top priority. Subsequent investigations revealed a broader network of infringing social media accounts and domains, which HBI has since taken action against, filing takedown requests across platforms like YouTube, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook. This victory reinforces HBI Innovations’ dedication to safeguarding its intellectual property, iconic products like RAW®, and the integrity of its global brand.

Josh Kesselman, HBI Innovations Founder, Interviewed by CelebStoner about High Times Purchase

Josh Kesselman, founder of HBI Innovations and RAW®, spoke with CelebStoner about his $3.45 million acquisition of High Times magazine. Kesselman emphasized that the acquisition is about community, not profits, aiming to revive High Times as a cultural and cannabis media institution. Partnering with former High Times executive Matt Stang, he plans to restore the magazine’s authenticity, amplify underrepresented voices, and maintain its legacy for future generations. Kesselman reflected on his long-standing connection to High Times, having built relationships with iconic figures like Bobby Black, Danny Danko, and Matt Stang while growing RAW®. His vision focuses on keeping High Times independent, thriving, and community-driven, rather than purely commercial.

Josh Kesselman, HBI Innovations Founder, Speaks with the New York Times about the Acquisition of High Times

Josh Kesselman, founder of HBI Innovations and RAW®, spoke with the New York Times about his $3.5 million acquisition of High Times magazine. Kesselman, partnering with former co-owner Matt Stang, aims to revive High Times as a counterculture and cannabis authority, restoring trust with the cannabis community and modernizing the publication. Plans include relaunching the iconic Cannabis Cup, producing podcasts, short-form video, and documentary content, and reconnecting readers with authentic cannabis culture. Kesselman emphasized that the goal is not profit, but legacy, aiming to elevate human consciousness and preserve High Times’ historical impact on the cannabis and counterculture communities.

Josh Kesselman, HBI Innovations Founder, Announces Purchase of High Times

Josh Kesselman, founder of HBI Innovations, announced the exclusive $3.5 million purchase of High Times magazine, Cannabis Cup, and associated assets, partnering with former co-owner Matt Stang. The acquisition aims to revive High Times’ legacy as a counterculture and cannabis authority, blending its historical influence with modern relevance. Plans include relaunching collectible print editions, reintroducing the Cannabis Cup event with transparent judging, rebuilding the digital platform, launching licensing deals including RAW® rolling papers, and connecting readers with cannabis social media influencers. Kesselman emphasized the personal and cultural significance of this acquisition, calling it a “dream” and a way to give back to the cannabis community while preserving the brand’s authenticity and 50-year legacy. An additional $1.85 million has been invested in trademark fees, digitizing archives, and operational relaunch costs.