Illicit currently operates in Missouri and New Jersey, with a robust presence in both markets. Their product lineup includes premium hand-trimmed flower, pre-rolls, concentrates, vape cartridges, and edibles. Their most recent product innovation, Illicit Gemstones (launched in late 2024), features artisanal cannabis-infused rock candy available in six flavors and four cannabinoid ratios.Their flower production utilizes state-of-the-art "bio-security" systems and proprietary drying and curing techniques that maximize cannabinoid and terpene content. Every aspect of their cultivation process is meticulously controlled, from hand-trimming to maintain trichome integrity to energy-efficient climate control systems that ensure consistent growing conditions regardless of external weather.Illicit's brand portfolio includes partnerships with legacy operators, such as their collaboration with Donte West to create "West by Illicit." They also distribute premium products from their sister brand, Cosmic Seed, which features edibles and CBD-blended pre-rolls derived from Illicit flower. Their commitment to quality has earned them over 15 awards, including Brand of the Year, Best Cultivator, and multiple product-specific recognitions.In the competitive Missouri market, Illicit maintains top-five rankings in multiple product categories, with particularly strong performance in flower and vapor pens, while steadily building their presence in New Jersey.
Founded in Missouri with a mission that goes beyond cannabis, Illicit emerged as a brand with purpose and conviction. The provocative name was deliberately chosen to challenge the status quo and raise important questions about cannabis prohibition and criminal justice reform. Since their first harvest in 2020, Illicit quickly established themselves as Missouri's premier cannabis producer, earning the title of best-selling brand by 2021 with sales exceeding their nearest competitor by 30%.Their journey has been marked by significant milestones, including the launch of their main cultivation facility in May 2021, which allowed them to scale production to meet statewide demand. The introduction of their manufacturing facility enabled them to expand into concentrates and cartridges, diversifying their product portfolio beyond their renowned flower offerings. By 2024, Illicit had achieved the prestigious Clean Green Certification, the closest equivalent to USDA organic that cannabis can currently attain.Most recently, Illicit has expanded operations into New Jersey, bringing their signature approach to quality and advocacy to the East Coast market. Through consistent innovation and unwavering commitment to their mission, Illicit has evolved from a local Missouri brand to a multi-state operator while maintaining their core values and craft quality approach.
At the heart of Illicit's mission is a powerful question: "Why is cannabis illicit?" More than just a clever play on their brand name, this question drives their commitment to criminal justice reform and advocacy for those still incarcerated for cannabis offenses. Through initiatives like their Freedom's Campaign, launched in partnership with the Last Prisoner Project, Illicit shines a light on the human and financial toll of the war on drugs.Illicit has donated over $150,000 to charitable organizations and community groups since 2020, supporting everything from legal fees for cannabis prisoners to digital literacy scholarships and local food drives. They work closely with advocacy groups like the Canna Convict Project, which helps non-violent cannabis inmates in Missouri with prison release and reintegration assistance.Beyond advocacy, Illicit is committed to producing the highest quality cannabis products while maintaining environmental responsibility. Their Clean Green Certification demonstrates their dedication to sustainable growing practices, while their emphasis on education empowers consumers to make informed choices. In everything they do, Illicit strives to bring responsible cannabis use into the mainstream while fighting to right the wrong of marijuana prohibition.
At Calm Effect, we're drawn to Illicit not just for their exceptional products but for their authentic approach to cannabis advocacy. Unlike brands that merely pay lip service to social issues, Illicit puts their money and platform behind real change through their Freedom's Campaign and community partnerships.We're impressed by their unwavering commitment to quality at every stage of production. Their hand-trimmed flower consistently delivers exceptional potency and terpene profiles that translate to superior effects. While many brands have rushed to scale at the expense of quality, Illicit maintains their craft approach while achieving remarkable growth.Their product innovation never fails to excite us, from their meticulously selected flower strains to creative offerings like their new Gemstones edibles. The retro-inspired packaging creates an experience before you even open the product, and their comprehensive strain information helps our customers make confident purchasing decisions.For deal-seekers, Illicit offers exceptional value through options like their 5-gram Ready2Roll pre-ground flower and 7-gram Premium Popcorn jars. When you choose Illicit, you're not just getting premium cannabis – you're supporting a brand that's actively working to build a more just and equitable industry.
