It was only a matter of time before the tobacco industry began to infiltrate the legal marijuana business. Tobacco and alcohol lobbyists attempted to keep marijuana illegal for decades so that their companies could grow and prosper with less competition. Now, with the tables turning, Big Tobacco has their eyes set on joining the race. If you can't beat them, join them.
Marlboro is known worldwide for their cigarettes, but it appears that they are trying to rebrand. As reported by Business Insider (via The Globe & Mail), Marlboro owner Altria Group is allegedly in talks to buy a minority stake in Aphria, a Canadian-based marijuana producer. The report claims that Altria is interesting in taking a majority control down the line. Details for the purchase are still being discussed, which means the entire deal can still fall apart at any minute. Neither Altria of Aphria has commented on the development.
While marijuana is still federally illegal in the United States, eight states have legalized the recreational use of weed. California, Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Massachusetts, and Maine currently offer recreational marijuana use. Over a dozen other states, including New York, New Jersey, Florida, Ohio, Illinois, and Pennslyvania have legalized marijuana for medical use.
