In the competitive landscape of the Michigan cannabis market, Vapin Ape has carved out a unique space for themselves. Their journey is marked by innovative products, strategic partnerships, and a relentless focus on quality. From 2022 to today, Vapin Ape has climbed the ranks to become one of Michigan’s largest brands in the “all-in-one vape” category, and they are continuing to grow rapidly. This brand is now carried by over 250 retailers, with more joining the list regularly. At Terpene Belt Farms, we are proud to have played a pivotal role in their success.
Origins and Initial Collaboration
Alec and Brandon, the co-founders of Vapin Ape and both originally from Michigan, met by chance in Chicago. Alec had launched an edibles brand called Mood Food, while Brandon was preparing to build a co-packing facility in Michigan. They discovered a shared passion for cannabis and quickly realized the potential of collaborating. Initially, the plan was to bring Mood Food to Michigan through Brandon’s upcoming facility, but as they learned more about this ever-changing market, their plans began to evolve.
Alec pivoted to launching a cannabis design agency, Cana Banana Design, while Brandon secured the co-manufacturing facility. Their combined expertise in sales and marketing, finance, and production led them to refocus their attention on creating a standout brand in the growing “all-in-one” vape segment.
Breaking Into the Vape Market
In the early days, Vapin Ape faced significant challenges. The vape market in Michigan was dominated by 510 threads, with few consumer alternatives to hardware or formulation. Brandon noted, “We were just starting to see innovation in the vaping category. We saw all-in-one disposables gaining traction in California but not much in Michigan.” They tested multiple device manufacturers and terpene providers, until landing on Terpene Belt Farms.
Brandon shared, “Terpene Belt’s full spectrum of terpenes, flavonoids, aldehydes, and esters significantly contributed to our product quality and brand story. Meeting Terpene Belt Farms in person during our ‘R&D phase’, and then attending their Annual Harvest Party solidified our long-term partnership.”
Consistency and Innovation
One of the critical success factors for Vapin Ape has been the consistency and quality of their products, enabled by TBF terpenes. Alec explained, “One of the brand’s biggest selling points is the consistency our consumers can expect. The experience a consumer has with a specific strain today will be the same experience a year from now. The stability in formulation, made possible by Terpene Belt Farms, is something no one else can offer.”
This consistency has allowed Vapin Ape to thrive in the highly competitive Michigan market. Alec continued, “We launched as a scrappy startup in 2022 with limited capital. Our focus on delivering one thing exceptionally well—cannabis-specific formulations in all-in-one hardware—has resonated with consumers and retail partners alike.”
Product Line and Market Strategy
Vapin Ape’s product line is a testament to their strategic approach. They have avoided a long tail of products, instead focusing on a core lineup available year-round. Each quarter, they introduce limited-edition products, utilizing new formulations from Terpene Belt Farms. These limited releases often become bestsellers and sell out quickly.
The brand’s packaging and broader creative footprint also plays a significant role in its market appeal. Alec mentioned, “Our packaging blends art with science. We have an iconic Vapin Ape brandmark on the front and a wealth of information about the terpene profiles and potential effects on the back. This approach helps educate consumers in a fun and engaging way.”
Partnership with Terpene Belt Farms
The partnership with Terpene Belt Farms has been instrumental in the Vapin Ape journey. Alec shared, “Terpene Belt Farms is not the least expensive option, but the investment in quality has paid off. Our product formulations are 100% cannabis, with terpene profiles ranging from 6% to 9% – something that is rarely seen here. This quality in formulation has been a huge differentiator for us.”
Brandon echoed this sentiment, “We have a die-hard fan base that appreciates the quality and consistency of our products. Our success is deeply intertwined with the innovations and support from Terpene Belt Farms. From day one, they took a bet on us, supporting us with everything we needed to grow.”
Looking Ahead
As Vapin Ape looks to the future, their commitment to quality and consistency remains unwavering. Alec concluded, “Our ability to plan out our annual product innovation calendar with Terpene Belt Farms’ support is a critical piece of our puzzle. This strategic partnership has been a cornerstone of our success, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.”
Vapin Ape stands out as a testament to the power of strategic partnerships, consistent quality, and a clear focus on delivering exceptional products. Their story, built with our support at Terpene Belt Farms, is a model for success in the competitive landscape of Michigan’s cannabis industry. Together, we have shown that with the right approach and the right partners, success is not only possible but sustainable.