#United States #Goldman Sachs #Chicago #Black Buffalo #Mark Hanson

Mark Hanson Recognized as an Exceptional Entrepreneur

Mark Hanson, the Co-Founder and President of Black Buffalo Inc., has been celebrated by Goldman Sachs as one of the Most Exceptional Entrepreneurs at this year's Builders and Innovators Summit, held in the beautiful setting of Healdsburg, California. This two-day prestigious event is a gathering of leaders from various industries focused on innovation and escalating the standards of business operations.

The recognition comes on the heels of several significant achievements by Black Buffalo, including an expansion of its retail footprint across the nation and the enhancement of its Herd Rewards loyalty program. These milestones reflect the company’s commitment to providing quality smokeless tobacco alternatives and catering to adult consumers who seek innovative solutions.

David Solomon, Goldman Sachs' Chairman and CEO, praised Hanson’s leadership, saying, “Under Mark's guidance, the Black Buffalo team has not only built a successful enterprise, but is also redefining industry paradigms.” Solomon noted that the summit brought together some of the most brilliant minds in the business world to discuss the future of commerce and innovation.

Hanson expressed his gratitude for the accolade, stating, “I am deeply honored to be named among Goldman Sachs' Most Exceptional Entrepreneurs. This recognition reflects the tireless dedication of the Black Buffalo team to excellence, our unwavering commitment to compliance, and our relentless pursuit to deliver innovative products to our adult consumers.”

The Builders and Innovators Summit, now in its 14th year, is a renowned platform for founders and CEOs of rapidly growing companies. Each year, it honors exceptional entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to their industries. Previous awardees have frequently gone on to lead some of the most successful corporations both privately and publicly.

The Summit is not only about recognition; it offers a wealth of knowledge through various sessions hosted by established entrepreneurs, academics, and business leaders. This cultivates a sense of collaboration and learning, crucial for those looking to leave a mark in their respective fields.

About Black Buffalo

Founded in 2015, Black Buffalo has rapidly become a leader in the market of smokeless tobacco alternatives in the United States, supported by extensive research and development exceeding 25,000 hours. The company has garnered accolades, including the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America award four times, with the latest recognition coming in 2025.

Black Buffalo's innovative products are available both in retail stores and online, catering to consumers aged 21 and older who use nicotine or tobacco. Interested retailers can connect with Black Buffalo to stock these alternatives and provide customers with safer options.

It’s crucial to note that while Black Buffalo's products contain pharmaceutical-grade, tobacco-derived nicotine, they are designed solely for adult use as part of a commitment to compliance and consumer health. The company aims to deliver not just innovative products but also to foster an informed consumer base regarding tobacco alternatives.

As the industry evolves, Black Buffalo continues to pave the way with its dedicated approach to product development and compliance, making it a notable player in the tobacco alternative sector. The recognition of Mark Hanson underscores the company's vision and innovative spirit, setting the stage for future growth and achievements. For more information, visit Black Buffalo's website or utilize their store locator to find a retailer near you.