Mr. David Spreckman reports

VERANO TARGETS INDUSTRY'S FASTEST-GROWING CATEGORIES WITH EXPANSION OF SAVVY AND (THE) ESSENCE PRODUCT PORTFOLIOS IN LEADING CANNABIS MARKETS

Verano Holdings Corp. has launched a wave of new product innovation across the fastest-growing categories in key markets, including Extra Savvy two-gram vape cartridges, Savvy Strut two-gram all-in-one vapes, Savvy 100 Proof diamond-infused barrel-style prerolled joints and (the) Essence J's barrel-style prerolled joints.

Prerolled joints and vapes represent the fastest-growing categories in the industry, and the larger-format vape category specifically grew more than 400 per cent in 2024. Demonstrating Verano's focus on innovation, automation and differentiation, the company is moving with speed and agility to meet consumer demand by leveraging in-house talent and cutting-edge manufacturing technology that exponentially increases production efficiency and output while preserving quality.

"As consumer appetite for differentiated cannabis products increases, particularly in the vape and preroll categories, we are excited to unleash a wave of innovation across our Savvy and (the) Essence portfolios featuring unique styles, experiences and engagement," said David Spreckman, chief marketing officer of Verano. "Following the initial rollout of (the) Essence J's and Extra Savvy two-gram vape carts in some of the nation's largest cannabis markets, Extra Savvy White Widow was the top-selling vape in Illinois last month, and, with Savvy 100 Proof prerolls and Savvy Strut two-gram all-in-one vapes also launching in key states, we are well positioned to further elevate our strong market positions in the fastest-growing categories."

The full suite of new Savvy and (the) Essence products will be available for purchase at Verano's Zen Leaf and MUV locations, along with third party dispensary partners, in select states:

• Extra Savvy two-gram vape cartridges -- stacked with high-potency oil and tasty terps to hit harder, last longer and stretch cash; perfect for seasoned consumers who value potency, longevity and consistency in their vapes; Extra Savvy is currently available in five strains: Sour Tangie, White Widow, Bacio Gelato, Rainbow Belts and GMO; now available in Illinois, New Jersey, Maryland and Arizona; coming soon to Pennsylvania, Florida and Connecticut;
• Savvy Strut two-gram all-in-one vapes -- the two-gram all-in-one that delivers big clouds and bold flavours; built to max out and make every drop count, with its USB-C compatibility, lit oil window and dynamic air flow for trouble-free vaping, Savvy Strut is perfect for consumers who value portability, longevity and consistency in their vapes; each device includes an embedded NFC (near-field communication) chip, which allows users to simply tap their smart phone to get plugged into exciting deals and promotions; Savvy Strut is currently available in six strains: Juicy Mango, Summer Melon, Peaches & Cream, Pineapple Mimosa, Fresh Berry, and Rainbow Sherbet; now available in Illinois, New Jersey, Maryland and Arizona; coming soon to Pennsylvania and Florida;
• Savvy 100 Proof diamond-infused barrel-style prerolled joints -- locked and loaded for a heavier hit, Savvy 100 Proof is crafted by blending preground small-bud flower with superfine, isolated THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) diamonds; this infusion process ensures a seamless blend of beloved Savvy strains with the THCa diamonds, delivering a uniquely potent experience; now available in Illinois and New Jersey;
• (the) Essence J's barrel-style prerolled joints -- tapping into the industry's fastest-growing category, (the) Essence J's harness the power of cutting-edge manufacturing innovation that exponentially increases output while incorporating a unique yet recognizable barrel-style shape, delivering consumer affordability without sacrificing quality; now available in Illinois and New Jersey; coming soon to Florida.

About Verano Holdings Corp.

Verano Holdings, one of the U.S. cannabis industry's leading companies based on historical revenue, geographic scope and brand performance, is a vertically integrated, multistate operator embracing a mission of saying yes to plant progress and the bold exploration of cannabis. Verano provides a superior cannabis shopping experience in medical and adult-use markets under the Zen Leaf and MUV dispensary banners, including Cabbage Club, an innovative annual membership program offering exclusive benefits for cannabis consumers. Verano produces a comprehensive suite of high-quality, regulated cannabis products sold under its diverse portfolio of trusted consumer brands including Verano, (the) Essence, MUV, Savvy, Bits, Encore and Avexia. Verano's active operations span 13 U.S. states, comprising 15 production facilities with over 1.1 million square feet of cultivation capacity.

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