Josh Kesselmann | CEO of RAW

Stay updated with our informative news articles.

Josh Kesselman, HBI Innovations Founder, Announces RAW's Win at the 2nd Annual International Cannabis Awards

Josh Kesselman, founder of HBI Innovations, announced RAW®’s dual victory at the 2nd Annual International Cannabis Awards, winning Best Rolling Papers in both the USA and Worldwide categories. The virtual event brought together cannabis industry leaders globally, celebrating excellence in cultivation, technology, and smoking products. RAW® secured over 44% of the votes, more than double the second-place finisher, highlighting its status as a top choice among consumers. Kesselman emphasized RAW®’s dedication to producing the highest-quality rolling papers, marking the brand’s 20th anniversary and its continued mission to innovate and enhance the smoking experience. The award underscores RAW®’s leadership in the rolling papers and smoking accessories industry.

Josh Kesselman, HBI Innovations Founder, Announces $10,000 Donation to Milo's Sanctuary, Inc.

Josh Kesselman, founder of HBI Innovations, announced a $10,000 donation to Milo’s Sanctuary & Special Needs Cat Rescue, Inc. through his RAW Giving initiative. Milo’s Sanctuary, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides lifetime care for cats with disabilities, seniors, terminal illnesses, or those rescued from abuse. The donation supports the sanctuary’s efforts to shelter animals and their owners impacted by California wildfires, allowing evacuees to stay with their pets. This contribution reflects Kesselman’s commitment to using RAW Giving to uplift organizations that make a tangible difference, emphasizing compassion, collective well-being, and the philosophy: “We all get higher together.”

Josh Kesselman, HBI International Founder, Announces $8.7 Million Award over RAW Lookalike

RAW® Rolling Papers Secures $8.7M Court Victory Against Copycat Brand RAW® founder Josh Kesselman announced a major win for HBI International (now HBI Innovations): an $8.7 million judgment against companies behind the Brocone brand for copying RAW® packaging designs. On Dec. 17, 2024, the U.S. District Court of Nevada awarded: $3M+ in wrongful profits $5.6M+ in statutory damages The case targeted Brocone Organic (India), AIMS Group USA, and Florida One Wholesale—reinforcing RAW®’s stance against counterfeits and lookalikes. Kesselman stated: “We can’t let anyone trick our family into buying something that isn’t genuine RAW.” Learn more at rawthentic.com.

Josh Kesselman, Founder of HBI International, Featured on the Cover of MG Magazine

Josh Kesselman, founder of HBI International and RAW Rolling Papers, was featured on the cover of MG Magazine’s December issue, highlighting his insights on the cannabis industry and the growth of the RAW brand. In the ‘Executive Insight’ interview with journalist Christopher Jones, Kesselman shared his early experiences in the rolling papers industry, discussed influences such as Mr. Rogers on his community engagement style, and offered perspectives on U.S. cannabis legalization trends. He noted that the U.S. market may follow a pattern similar to Canada’s boom-and-bust cycle. Since launching RAW in 2005 in Phoenix, Arizona, Kesselman has built a dedicated global following for the brand, known for its innovation, plant-based products, and commitment to serving the cannabis community. Full interview available on MG Magazine’s website.