Legacy Grower Craig Palmer Transforms 6 Point Cannabis From Illicit Roots to Award-Winning New York Brand

Craig Palmer, founder of 6 Point Cannabis, has become a leading voice in New York’s legal cannabis scene by winning a place in the first official High Times New York Cannabis Cup, a milestone that acknowledges his decades-long journey from underground grower to licensed entrepreneur. Palmer’s story began in Rochester in the 1990s, when cultivating cannabis was a high-risk endeavor that could lead to severe legal consequences. Reflecting on those early days, Palmer said, “We were facing 15 year felonies for what is now legal.” The skills, genetics, and relationships he built under prohibition now form the core of his brand’s identity

Unlike many newcomers capitalizing on recent legalization, Palmer’s approach with 6 Point Cannabis is deeply personal and rooted in a lifelong commitment to the plant. “We base our brand on being a very spiritually forward company that is looking to bring the community together and bring a healthy product to the market,” Palmer explained. The brand’s name, inspired by sacred geometry, reinforces this philosophy, and Palmer’s focus on breeding his own genetics sets 6 Point apart in a crowded marketplace. “I create all my own genetics,” he said, emphasizing the authenticity and individuality of his strains

Transitioning from the illicit market to the regulated industry has not been without challenges. Palmer notes that compliance, testing, and high overhead costs have replaced the legal risks of the past. “I thought it was, hey man, I’m going to plug my grow op into the legal system and just start selling legal weed. It’s way different than that,” he said. He has also criticized the state’s approach, saying, “I do think New York gave out too many licenses too fast,” which has put additional pressure on small, self-funded operators like himself

Despite these hurdles, Palmer has remained steadfast in his commitment to quality, focusing primarily on premium flower and developing new products like rosin with partners. “Flower is king,” Palmer declared, underscoring his belief that product excellence is the key to survival in a competitive market. His confidence is palpable: “I’ll pink slip my cannabis next to anyone’s cannabis any day.” By owning and curating his own dispensary in downtown Rochester, which he describes as a “cannabis spa,” Palmer aims to offer a unique consumer experience, complete with custom design elements and a rooftop lounge overlooking the city

Palmer’s recognition at the High Times Cannabis Cup has amplified his brand’s visibility and validated his legacy approach. “It was like people were there just to celebrate the plant and the vibration was super high in that room,” he recalled, describing the sense of community at the event. The exposure from the competition led to a significant boost in his following and reinforced his determination to continue entering future contests. As Palmer puts it, “Next year I will definitely be entering it again.”

From the OG Lab newsroom perspective, Palmer’s journey highlights the ongoing tensions between legacy operators and the realities of New York’s regulated market. His success demonstrates that authenticity, quality genetics, and community focus can still resonate amid corporate competition. As the state’s cannabis landscape continues to evolve, the industry will be watching to see whether pioneers like Palmer can sustain their influence and help shape the future of legal cannabis in New York