Cookies Lawsuit Kicks Off Early December
Cookies, the renowned cannabis brand co-founded by rapper Berner, is facing a series of legal challenges that could reshape its future. In February 2024, Cookies Retail LLC, led by Brandon Johnson, filed a lawsuit in California Superior Court against Berner and his companies, alleging violations of franchise laws, fraudulent misrepresentations, and seeking over $100 million in damages. The dispute centers on licensing agreements from January 2020 that allowed Johnson’s company to open 33 Cookies-branded stores. The lawsuit claims that Cookies misrepresented store profitability and opening costs, leading to financial losses.
This lawsuit is part of a broader pattern of legal issues for Cookies. In 2023, SeedJunky, a cannabis genetics company, sued Berner and Cookies executives, accusing them of theft and fraud regarding their joint venture, Minntz. Additionally, Cookies is currently facing a lawsuit from Gron Ventures Fund, which alleges mismanagement of a $5.5 million investment.
The outcome of these cases could have significant implications. A ruling against Cookies could lead to hefty financial penalties and damage the brand’s market position. On the other hand, a favorable outcome for investors could set a precedent for other cannabis-related legal disputes. The case also raises concerns about investor confidence in the cannabis industry and may prompt increased regulatory scrutiny.
The December 2024 trial will be a critical moment for Cookies, with the potential to affect its operations, market strategy, and even the broader cannabis industry’s legal landscape.
