Shahar Yamay is the CEO of Hefestus USA, a company that specializes in cannabis and food automation technology. At MJBizCon 2025 in Las Vegas, Yamay said his company makes equipment that can fit into a small footprint. He stressed that Hefestus doesn't "over-automate," building machines that are simple to work with and cloud-connected for remote monitoring.
At the show, Yamay highlighted some of the company's new machines, including the Hefestus Auto Tube, which automates pre-roll packaging with modified-atmosphere packaging to improve freshness and consistency. The machine can process up to 30 doob tubes per minute, injecting them with medical-grade nitrogen gas, which replaces oxygen in the container before sealing.
The company also offers the AuraX Infusion Upgrade, which forms a micro-channel through the center of each pre-roll. The channel keeps airflow open, supports a clean draw, and maintains smooth flavor. Every pre-roll lights easily, burns evenly, and finishes clean.
The equipment can help operators stay ahead in an industry in a perpetual state of flux. Yamay said the cannabis business isn't like the food sector, which has been relatively stagnant for the last 30 years. He said cannabis is more like fashion, particularly in the U.S., where it is very brand- and trend-oriented.
