Former Chicago Tribune Publisher Enters Cannabis Industry

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]A[/dropcap]ccording to a July 11 press release, former Chicago Tribune CEO and Publisher Tony Hunter entered his new role as chair of the Board of Directors of cannabis company Revolution Enterprises. Illinois-based Revolution Enterprises produces packaged cannabis goods, including food and beverages to cannabis-infused topicals and even pet products.

Revolution Enterprises CEO Mark de Souza praised Hunter’s resume, saying, “He has a proven track record of building robust businesses by creating high performance teams and an intense focus on the execution of strategic priorities. His integrity and focus on profitability, coupled with disciplined corporate governance, uniquely matches our board chair needs as we enter this next chapter in Revolution’s evolution.”

Hunter was CEO of the Tribune Company for about 20 years, eight of which he served as publisher of Chicago Tribune. He’s more that proven himself as a formidable leader in the publishing industry. Hunter’s views on cannabis evolved after personally witnessing its healing powers for the treatment of chronic health conditions among friends and family.

Hunter is thrilled about his new position, and he’s focused on actual patients and consumers  who depend on the healing and relaxing properties of cannabis. “I’m excited to join Mark and his team in establishing Revolution as a leader in the cannabis and hemp sector,” Hunter said. “Revolution’s business is based on putting patients and consumers first, operational excellence, and expansion that is thoughtful and strategic. I look forward to helping the company in its next stage of growth as we double down on these fundamentals and open new markets across the country.”

Meanwhile, also in the state of Illinois, up to 800,000 cannabis-related convictions are expected to be expunged, following the state’s new recreational cannabis law signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker. Even Mick Jagger celebrated the legalization of cannabis in the state, while touring through the area.

As part of Revolution Enterprises’ expansion into Arkansas, a newer medical cannabis state, the company is launching a partnership with Delta Medical Cannabis Co. Delta Medical holds one of Arkansas’ five coveted cultivation and processing licenses.