Store Design, Staffing and Franchise Lessons

In this Business Breakdown, David Barbato and Ian Cassel sit down with High Tide Inc’s (HITI) CEO Raj Grover and Capital Market Advisor Vahan Ajamian. The company was originally profiled by Ian Cassel on November 10, 2025, at $3.00 USD per share. 

This discussion took place live on February 17th, 2026, on the MicroCapClub Community. Join MicroCapClub and unlock the ability to listen and participate live in these discussions - https://microcapclub.com/join-now/

In this conversation, Raj Grover, CEO of High Tide, discusses the company's journey from a single tobacco shop to the largest cannabis retailer in Canada. He shares insights into their innovative business model, including a unique loyalty program that has significantly boosted customer engagement and sales. The discussion also covers Hightide's expansion strategy, both domestically and internationally, as well as the challenges and opportunities within the cannabis market. Grover emphasizes the importance of location, store economics, and the company's commitment to becoming a global leader in cannabis retail.

✉️ Share your feedback - david@microcapclub.com

✉️ David’s X (Twitter) - https://x.com/Valuehunte 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hightide and Its Leaders

04:31 Raj Grover's Entrepreneurial Journey

07:06 Hightide's Business Model and Growth

12:56 Loyalty Programs and Customer Engagement

19:00 Market Share and Expansion Plans

23:47 Financial Performance and Future Projections

28:08 Challenges and Opportunities in the Cannabis Market

34:21 Retail Expansion and Location Strategy

40:27 Unit Economics and Store Performance

45:34 Inorganic Growth and Acquisitions

49:32 White Label Strategy and Product Differentiation

54:24 European Market Expansion and Ramexion Acquisition

01:01:47 Future Plans and U.S. Market Strategy

Disclaimer: All content on this channel is for discussion, education, entertainment, and illustrative purposes only and SHOULD NOT be construed as professional financial advice, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities, notwithstanding anything stated on this channel. There are risks associated with investing in securities. Loss of principal is possible. Past performance is not a predictor of future investment performance. Ian Cassel and the guests on this channel are not responsible for investment actions taken by viewers. Should you need such advice, consult a licensed financial advisor, legal advisor, or tax advisor. You agree to verify all information yourself before investing. Any past performance discussed during this program is no guarantee of future results. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital; please seek advice from a licensed professional. All views expressed are personal opinions as of the date of recording and are subject to change without the responsibility to update views. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of the information on this channel. Releasees undertake no obligation to provide accurate or sound investment statements. You waive any and all duties that may exist flowing from you to any Releasee. You agree not to hold any Releasee liable for any possible claim for damages arising from any decision you make based on information or other content on the Channel.