Fluent, a vertically-integrated, multi-state cannabis company, today announced that Interim CEO David E. Vautrin has stepped down, effective June 12, 2026.
His exit, less than one year after former CEO Robert Beasley left the company, comes as Fluent is in the process of being acquired by Vireo Growth. Matt Mundy, Fluent's chief legal officer, has been picked to take over as interim CEO.
“On behalf of the board and the entire Fluent organization, I would like to thank David for his leadership and commitment during a pivotal period for the company. Over the past year, Fluent has successfully implemented many critical strategic initiatives, strengthened operational execution and entered into an arrangement agreement to be acquired by Vireo Growth...We are grateful for his service and contributions during this time with the company," said Executive Chair William Smith in a statement.
“I appreciate the opportunity provided by the Board to serve as Interim CEO during such an important period for Fluent. I am proud of what our team accomplished together, and I would like to thank our employees for their dedication and commitment throughout this journey," said Vautrin in a statement.
In April, Vireo entered into an all-stock deal to acquire Fluent, which operates in Florida, New York and Texas. The company, which is headquartered in Tampa, Florida, has approximately 650 employees across eight cultivation and manufacturing facilities, and 35 active retail locations along with a wholesale division serving third party retailers in New York.
