Aurora takes control of hempco; increasing stakes to 52.7% EDMONTON and BURNABY, BC, May 15, 2018/CNW/ - Aurora Cannabis Inc. (the "Company" or "Aurora") (TSX:ACB.TO - News) (OTCQX:ACBFF- News) (Frankfurt: 21P; WKN: A1C4WM) and Hempco Food and Fiber Inc. ("Hempco") (TSX-V:HEMP.V - News) are pleased to announce that, further to the Companies' press release of September 18, 2017, Aurora has exercised its right under a private option agreement with Charles and Angela Holmes. Pursuant to this agreement Aurora has purchased an aggregate of 10,754,942 additional Hempco Shares (50% from Charles Holmes, 50% from Angela Holmes). Following the transaction, Aurora's ownership interest in Hempco now stands at 52.7% (50.12% on a fully-diluted basis).
Management commentary
"Hempco plays an important role in our strategy to secure access to low-cost raw material for the potential production of CBD extracts once new legislation is in place allowing whole (hemp) plant utilization," said Terry Booth, CEO. "Furthermore, this is a strategic partnership that also helps us develops a broader portfolio of value added products for the health supplements market. By taking control, we will be able to more closely integrate Hempco's operations with our own and drive growth."
Diane Jang, CEO of Hempco, added, "Aurora provides us with a large, financially strong and long-term stable shareholder, whose capabilities and networks will enable Hempco to accelerate development. With our new Nisku plant coming online, multiple distribution channel initiatives being implemented, and new products coming to market, we are rapidly developing a strong foundation for growth and expansion."