From Sports Gear to Green Gold: How One Man Built a Cannabis Empire
David Morrow, once known for crafting titanium lacrosse sticks, now runs a massive Michigan cannabis plant that produces 30 tons of high‑quality weed each year. After selling his sports‑equipment company to New Balance for $50 million, he turned to the rapidly growing marijuana market.
The Evart Facility
- Size: 225 000 square feet
- Plants: 26 000 under LED lights
- Hygiene: Workers wash and sanitize before entering each grow room
The operation pulls in about $190 million a year, with a 42 percent profit margin—an impressive feat in a state that charges a heavy wholesale tax and has a competitive black market.
Focus on Michigan
Morrow’s strategy differs from many growers who spread out across multiple states. He focuses on Michigan, calling it the “Napa Valley of cannabis.” By mastering local production and keeping costs low—about $6 per unit versus an $11 retail price—he can out‑price rivals and keep a steady supply.
Engineering Meets Agriculture
The plant’s design, built by Gallagher‑Kaiser Corp., cost $45 million and shows how Morrow applies engineering skills from his earlier career. He believes the facility could be replicated anywhere with cheap electricity and water, making it a model for future factories.
A Story of Perseverance
Beyond business numbers, Morrow’s story reflects perseverance. From his early days as a Princeton lacrosse star to launching Warrior Sports, he has consistently turned passion into profitable ventures. His move into cannabis was driven by a friend’s desire to revitalize a rural town, showing that economic goals can align with community benefits.
Daily Operations
Today, Morrow walks the drying racks and checks batches of 500 pounds weekly. He sees his work as a blend of science, entrepreneurship, and service—ensuring that consumers get consistent, high‑quality products while his company stays ahead in a regulated industry.
