Introduction
KND Labs has earned a reputation as one of the most credible and high-quality CBD manufacturers in the industry. But as the market continues to evolve, so does KND Labs.
In a recent conversation with Nich Wilson, President of KND Labs, we explored how the company is expanding beyond CBD, embracing specialized manufacturing, and navigating a shifting regulatory landscape. From finished goods manufacturing to botanical extractions, KND Labs is seizing new opportunities while staying committed to compliance and innovation.
The Evolution of KND Labs
KND Labs was founded by Kevin Kirkpatrick, a relentless innovator who saw an opportunity in large-scale CBD extraction. From the outset, the company focused on credibility and compliance, prioritizing certifications and quality control over aggressive marketing tactics.
Nich Wilson, initially involved on the funding side, transitioned into a leadership role, overseeing marketing, finance, and business development. Reflecting on KND’s early days, Wilson shared that instead of investing in flashy trade show booths, they invited potential clients to tour their facilities- a bold move that built trust and demonstrated their real production capabilities.
“We barely invested in marketing - our dollars went into ensuring compliance and transparency. And it worked.”
Navigating the Complexities of CBD Regulation
The regulatory landscape surrounding CBD has always been unpredictable. Many companies tread carefully, but KND Labs has taken a proactive approach, even when it meant taking calculated risks.
One key decision was registering as both a food and drug manufacturer with the FDA, setting the company apart in terms of compliance. This approach not only added credibility but also provided flexibility as regulations continued to shift.
Wilson explained that while legal teams often offer conservative advice, KND Labs has sometimes pushed boundaries to stay ahead:
“In a new industry, you can’t always rely on existing legal frameworks. Sometimes you have to take a leap and trust that you’re doing the right thing for consumers.”
By prioritizing consumer safety and compliance, KND Labs has positioned itself as a leader in an industry still defining its regulatory future.
Diversification: Expanding Beyond CBD
While CBD remains at the heart of KND Labs, regulatory uncertainty has made diversification a strategic necessity. The company is expanding in three major areas:
1. Finished Goods Manufacturing
KND Labs is moving up the supply chain, manufacturing tinctures, soft gels, topicals, and pet products for key customers. This shift allows them to provide turnkey solutions, reducing reliance on raw ingredient sales.
2. Botanical Extractions
Leveraging its expertise in extraction, KND Labs is expanding into antioxidants, functional mushrooms (like lion’s mane), and other plant-derived compounds. This move caters to the growing demand for natural wellness products beyond CBD.
3. New Facilities & Scaling Up
To support this expansion, KND Labs is investing in new facilities, positioning itself as a versatile manufacturer beyond the CBD space. “We don’t know what the future of CBD regulation holds, but we do know that we need to diversify,” said Wilson. “That’s our focus moving forward.”
Specialized Manufacturing: A Game Changer for KND Labs
One of the biggest surprises in KND Labs’ evolution has been the rapid growth of specialized manufacturing, particularly in liquid filling for pet products.
Wilson shared that over half of KND’s revenue last month came from this segment alone. A standout example is their work on an anti-inflammatory pet product for a major retailer, which has already shipped millions of units.
“We took on a project that other manufacturers rejected. Now, we’re producing millions of units for a national retailer. That’s the kind of opportunity we’re leaning into.”
By listening to customer needs and staying flexible, KND Labs is carving out a niche in custom manufacturing, which could soon outpace its CBD business.
Looking Ahead: The Future of KND Labs
With no signs of slowing down, KND Labs is evolving out of the “teenager” phase to a more mature, scalable business model.
Key Future Goals:
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Expand specialized manufacturing to support more brands
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Strengthen R&D for new botanical extractions
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Continue compliance leadership in an uncertain regulatory space
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Build new facilities to support growth
“We’re at a point where there’s no ceiling on growth,” said Wilson. “The opportunities in specialized manufacturing are endless, and we’re excited to redefine what KND Labs can be.”
Final Thoughts
KND Labs continues to evolve and innovate, balancing CBD excellence with expanded manufacturing capabilities. As the company diversifies into new products and industries, it remains at the forefront of compliance, customer-driven innovation, and cutting-edge manufacturing.
What’s next? Expect more insights and interviews from the KND team, customer case studies, and behind-the-scenes content on their expanding operations.
Want to stay updated on KND Labs’ latest innovations? Follow their journey as they redefine what’s possible in the world of specialized manufacturing!