Australian medicinal cannabis producer ECS Botanics is taking its expansion plans global after securing a significant funding boost from one of Australia’s biggest banks.
The Victorian-based cultivator announced on Monday it had increased its National Australia Bank loan facility by $2 million to a total of $5.2 million, while also securing an additional $400,000 for its revolving leasing facility.
The cash injection arrives as ECS prepares to introduce California’s cult cannabis brand Terphogz to new markets worldwide, starting with an Australian B2C launch this quarter.
“We have established a strong foundation for this project,” said ECS Managing Director Nan-Maree Schoerie, who highlighted their plans to roll out Terphogz products in the UK by mid-year, with Germany and New Zealand launches to follow.
The company has already finalised a UK marketing and distribution agreement and expects to complete similar deals in Germany and New Zealand this month.
Behind the scenes, ECS is upgrading its production capabilities, with the leasing facility increase earmarked for power upgrades to support additional Protective Cropping Enclosures.
Terphogz, a renowned cannabis breeding group from Mendocino County, California, created the sought-after Original Z variety, known for its unique terpene profile. ECS secured an eight-year licensing agreement with the brand last September.
What makes the funding arrangement particularly noteworthy is that the original $3.2 million facility remains untouched, giving ECS substantial financial flexibility as it executes its international strategy.
The Northwest Victorian operation has built its reputation on sustainable cultivation methods, using regenerative farming practices, organic techniques, and renewable energy to produce GMP-certified medicinal cannabis products.
