Plift Doubles Down on Innovation, Proving There’s Still Room to Grow in Hemp Beverages

Plift introduces Sessions, a new 0.4mg THC beverage line, and Rest, a separate THC-free CBN beverage crafted for sleep support, while appointing Craig Schlachter as VP of Sales to support the brand’s continued growth

Plift, the Chicago-based, Black- and woman-founded hemp beverage brand, is expanding its portfolio with the launches of Plift Sessions and Rest while appointing Craig Schlachter as Vice President of Sales. The moves reflect the company’s continued investment in product innovation and growth amid uncertainty across the hemp beverage industry.

Founded by Glenn McElfresh, Todd Harris and Andrea Slinde, Plift was built on the belief that hemp beverages should be delicious, approachable and accessible to more people. Inspired in part by personal experiences with alcoholism in their families and growing demand for alternatives to traditional social drinking, the founders set out to create flavor-forward beverages with predictable dosing and a familiar drinking experience.

“We’ve always believed in two things: that hemp beverages should taste good and that they should be available to more people. That means continuing to innovate, investing in the right people and building a business that’s ready for whatever the future holds. With the launch of Sessions and Rest, alongside Craig joining our team to lead sales, we’re continuing to move forward on all fronts. There’s still a lot of uncertainty around the future of this industry, but we believe the answer is thoughtful innovation and giving consumers more options that fit their lives,” said Todd Harris, co-founder of Plift.

With 0.4 mg of THC per container, Sessions is designed around the threshold established under Illinois’ upcoming hemp framework, offering a new approach as the industry navigates regulatory change.

The line includes Sessions Sparkling Soda in Tart Lime and Crisp Ginger, with 35 calories per can, and Sessions Sparkling Water in Zesty Lemon and Bold Cherry, with zero calories, zero sugar and no artificial sweeteners. Both formats are available in eight-packs, including a mixed Social Pack featuring both soda flavors.

Built for dinners with friends, backyard get-togethers, tailgates and parties, Sessions reflects Plift’s belief that hemp beverages belong wherever people gather, offering a flavorful, approachable alternative to the usual drink.

Plift is also expanding beyond social occasions with the launch of Rest, a ready-to-drink, plant-based CBN beverage crafted for everyday sleep support. The THC-free formula contains 10 mg of CBN per serving and comes in an elegant 750 mL bottle, with cherry and vanilla tasting notes that bring a familiar, approachable flavor profile to an evening ritual.

While Plift’s original lineup draws inspiration from classic cocktails, Rest brings a different experience to the portfolio, offering an elixir-style beverage designed to fit naturally into a nighttime routine. Together, the new products show how Plift is building a portfolio around different occasions, with flavor and experience at the center.

That continued product development is matched by investment in the team driving Plift’s next stage of growth. Craig Schlachter, who previously held roles at Reyes, Fever-Tree and Breakthrough Beverage, joins as Vice President of Sales to lead the company’s sales efforts as it builds on existing distribution and brings new products to market.

As the hemp beverage industry faces significant regulatory changes, Plift remains focused on expanding its portfolio and advocating for a future that prioritizes thoughtful regulation and broader consumer access.

About Plift

Plift is a Chicago-based, Black- and woman-founded hemp beverage brand on a mission to bring humanity back to hemp. Founded by Glenn McElfresh, Todd Harris and Andrea Slinde, Plift creates flavor-forward, hemp-derived beverages designed to make the experience more accessible, approachable and enjoyable for a broader range of consumers. Its portfolio spans low-dose THC beverages inspired by familiar cocktail flavors, sparkling options and a THC-free CBN beverage for nighttime routines. Learn more at plift.com.