M&A / Property
Vireo Growth Inc. Enters into Non-Binding Memorandum of Understanding to Acquire The Hawthorne Gardening Company from ScottsMiracle-Gro

VREO · Price
Executive Summary
- Vireo Growth Inc. entered into a non‑binding Memorandum of Understanding with The Scotts Miracle‑Gro Company to acquire The Hawthorne Gardening Company LLC, a leading indoor/hydroponic gardening supplier.
- Upon completion, Chris Hagedorn (EVP of Scotts Miracle‑Gro and lead of Hawthorne) will be appointed to Vireo’s Board of Directors.
- The transaction is expected to close in the first fiscal quarter of 2026, deepening Vireo’s partnership with Scotts Miracle‑Gro and expanding its cannabis‑related product portfolio.
Key Details
- Transaction Structure: Non‑binding MOU for acquisition of Hawthorne (an independent operating subsidiary of Scotts Miracle‑Gro).
- Target: The Hawthorne Gardening Company LLC – provider of nutrients, lighting, and other materials for indoor/hydroponic gardening in North America.
- Timing: Anticipated closing during Vireo’s first fiscal quarter of 2026.
- Board Appointment: Chris Hagedorn, Executive Vice President of Scotts Miracle‑Gro and Executive Lead of Hawthorne, to be named a Director upon transaction completion.
- Strategic Rationale: Enhances Vireo’s product offering for the cannabis market, leverages Hawthorne’s expertise in indoor cultivation, and strengthens collaboration with a well‑capitalized partner.
- Management Comments:
- CEO John Mazarakis highlighted mutual respect, trust, and the strategic fit of the transaction.
- Jim Hagedorn (Chairman & CEO of Scotts Miracle‑Gro) emphasized that the equity participation arrangement aligns shareholder interests and allows focus on core businesses.
Notable Quotes
- “We’ve valued our working relationship with Scotts‑Miracle‑Gro and the Hawthorne team… This proposed transaction builds on a foundation of mutual respect and trust.” – John Mazarakis, CEO, Vireo
- “Vireo is well capitalized and has a strong platform… We have found a good home for Hawthorne that aligns with our interests while enabling us to sharpen focus on our core business.” – Jim Hagedorn, Chairman & CEO, Scotts‑Miracle‑Gro
More from Vireo Growth Inc.
Jun 18, 2026 · 16:05