AACE INTERVIEW: Co-founder Brian Pyun of Elevated Global Supply
“What was your proudest moment? “Most recently, Reefers by Sublime— I was born and raised in Southern California; how can I not be proud of this moment?”.”
As co-founder of Elevated Global Supply, Brian Pyun has established himself as a trailblazer in cannabis packaging. By combining innovation, functionality, and sustainability, Pyun's Sublime packaging has become a symbol of excellence in the cannabis industry, setting new standards for quality and environmental responsibility.
Cannabis packaging plays a crucial role in preserving the quality, freshness, and safety of cannabis products. With the ever-growing demand for cannabis, innovative packaging solutions have become essential to meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations. Brian Pyun recognized this need and set out to create sustainable and cutting-edge packaging solutions that align with the unique requirements of the cannabis industry.
I am honored to feature Brian Pyun on Asian Americans for Cannabis Education; his story and his philosophies align with today’s concerns for the future in sustainability in all packaging, not just cannabis. - Ophelia Chong
In your bio you “came across a 3-billion-dollar packaging” company; how did you find this company?
It was 2007 and I needed to pivot out of commercial real estate. I was looking for a sales job, I wasn’t trying to go into packaging specifically -- I was browsing what my options were at that time. After doing some research, the opportunity seemed too good to pass up. I jumped in and stuck with it, 16 years later. Depending on the project, I still work with some individuals today.
With Single Use plastic becoming less desirable for obvious reasons, what is Elevated doing for sustainable packaging?
Our overseas team is constantly looking for sustainable materials to introduce into new products. Currently, we’re working on bioplastic (PLE/PBAT) to use in different categories. Our newest sustainable initiative revolves around bamboo and recycled plastic, which makes the item anaerobic and degradable!
Is thedieline.com your favorite go-to site for inspiration? What was your reaction to seeing Monogram featured?
Die Line is one of the sources used, but we like to pull from multiple avenues! Whether it be something we see in-store while doing our shopping or something we see online. Our in-house designer, Johnny, is also a resource we use daily for collaborating or creating new design styles.
When Monogram was featured, we felt elated! Packaging isn’t sexy; people hardly talk about the beginning stages of product development, so being part of this project kept the inspiration alive.
If you had to use any organic material and let’s think about this, what material would you like to see being used for packaging? For instance, Mycelium is used for packaging, building materials, toxic waste abatement etc.
I’d like to see Hemp Plastic incorporated into packaging, for apparent reasons. Besides it being parallel to the cannabis plant, it’s a strong material that should be used for more than it currently is. Additionally, PLA being used in more categories while pushing the use of FSC materials for paperboard products.
What do you think about the regulated Child Proof packaging for flower? For apparent reasons edibles, there is a need for child-proof packaging.
CR packaging is focused on safety versus practicality. We know it’s not the easiest to operate, but it keeps the products clean and safe from the little hands nearby. Don’t get me wrong; I still love an old-fashioned pop-top! I have a couple lying around just in case, haha.
How do you navigate during Covid with oversea supplies and US-based clients?
Covid was an interesting time for everyone. We were fortunate to navigate this time effectively through our own overseas infrastructure. Utilizing all employees for honest communication and updates, we kept reminding ourselves that we have “boots on the ground” for all our client’s needs. Additionally, our partner factories kept up with all orders while following any mandates. We found ourselves profitable during this season, thus allowing us to grow our team in the end.
What was your proudest moment in the cannabis industry?
Most recently, Reefers by Sublime— I was born and raised in Southern California; how can I not be proud of this moment? Working hand in hand with the Reefers team in the design, development, and delivery of this product line was a full-circle moment for me. You can shop the brand in stores now -- more coming soon!
Do your parents talk about you every chance they get at family gatherings? Since Elevated is ancillary, how did they view your participation in the cannabis industry?
My parents are proud of my accomplishments, personal and professional. Despite their conservative outlook, they have never looked down on the industry or what I do. If anything, they appreciate the professionalism and business processes EGS has brought to the industry.
If you had your own jar with your own strain:
What color would the jar or pouch be? A jar: green, white, and gold foil
What color would the lid be? Green with gold foil stamping
What shape would the jar be? Round for practical purposes such as labeling, storage, etc.
What is the name of your strain? Pluto OG, to go far, far away.
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