Client Spotlight: Curio Wellness
Curio Wellness is a vertically integrated cannabis company that takes a science-driven approach to cultivation and manufacturing. Using proprietary methods and pharmaceutical-grade practices, they ensure each product is carefully crafted, formulated, and produced to deliver high-quality wellness solutions.
They strive to continually elevate the conversation of cannabis and healthcare through education and experiences. Since opening their operations in Missouri, they’ve partnered with Monarch Waste Co. to manage pre-consumer vape waste generated during manufacturing. By also joining Monarch’s Disposable Vape Pen Takeback Program, they’re providing consumers with a more complete lifecycle solution.
Built on Science and Standards
From seed to sale, Curio prioritizes quality and consistency. Their operations are designed to meet high safety and hygienic standards at every step of the process. Facilities in Maryland and Missouri are cGMP certified, the FDA’s main regulatory standard for ensuring pharmaceutical quality.
Cultivation takes place in enclosed grow rooms with precisely controlled temperature, humidity, air quality, air flow, and CO2 levels. Strict contamination controls and advanced HVAC and water filtration systems support repeatable cannabinoid- and terpene-rich profiles.
Curio uses a thoughtful approach, starting with carefully grown cannabis, and then moving through a CO2 extraction process designed to keep the finished oil clean and true to the plant.
A dedicated Product Innovation Team is responsible for all new product development, line extensions, and consumer insights research. Meanwhile, a Scientific Advisory Board is pivotal in guiding formulations and delivery methods for medicinal and recreational use.
Expanding Operations in Missouri
As part of its growing operational footprint, Curio operates a licensed MIP (Marijuana Infused Product) facility in Maryland Heights, Missouri, and announced the launch of its cultivation operations and flower products in February 2025. Curio's product list includes flower, pre-rolls, vapes, topicals, elixirs, tablets, and chews.
In October 2025, Curio entered into a definitive agreement to acquire four high-volume retail dispensaries in Missouri operating under the Greenlight brand. Locations in Cape Girardeau, Sikeston, Poplar Bluff, and Hayti will expand Curio's best-in-class retail portfolio and presence in Southeast Missouri.
Co-Hosting a Missouri-Based Podcast
Tim Pickett, Director of Brand & Trade Marketing, also joined the Missouri podcast Greenway Audio Magazine as a co-host. The podcast brings the most compelling stories, features, and interviews from Greenway Magazine directly to listeners’ ears. It keeps listeners informed of the latest developments in the cannabis industry.
Episode 27 interviews Zach McCullough and Annie Macheca, Co-Founders of Monarch Waste Co., on the issue of recycling vape pens and how Monarch is tackling waste head-on.
Bringing Vape Pen Recycling to Retail
As Curio expands its retail presence in Missouri, the company is extending its sustainability efforts with Monarch Waste Co. As participants in the Disposable Vape Pen Takeback Program, each new Curio dispensary will have a kiosk, giving consumers a safe, compliant way to recycle used disposable vape pens.
All-in-one (AIO) disposable vapes contain lithium-ion batteries that can’t safely be tossed in standard trash or recycling streams. These batteries, if improperly discarded, can cause fires during transport or at landfills and recyclers, putting the health of workers and communities at risk. What’s more, when thrown away, the cobalt, iron, graphite, nickel, and other materials that make up batteries cannot be recovered.
By offering dedicated in-store collection, Curio is proactively addressing these safety and environmental challenges.
Recycle Disposable Vape Pens Compliantly With Monarch
As vape pen use has grown across the cannabis industry, so has the demand for safe and compliant recycling results. In response, Monarch Waste Co. developed a solution that gives dispensaries everything needed for proper disposal.
The Disposable Vape Pen Takeback Program brings securely installed collection kiosks and signage that fit seamlessly into retail spaces. Boxes are serviced regularly, in which Monarch safely removes and discharges batteries through local R-2-certified recyclers.
Monarch manages the collection, transportation, and recycling logistics on your behalf to keep compliance effortless. As a result, your team can stay focused on daily operations while remaining fully compliant.
If your dispensary is ready to join, fill out our contact form, and a member of our team will be in touch!