Created by Josh Kesselman in 1995, RAW was born from a radical idea: rolling paper should never contain chemicals.
Before RAW, the world smoked bleached, chemical-laden paper. After RAW, the world learned what “The Natural Way” truly meant.
Few brands in history have achieved the level of “Generic Trademark” status—where the brand name becomes synonymous with the product itself. RAW is one of them. Created by the eccentric and visionary Josh Kesselman, RAW didn’t just change the rolling paper market; it created a new category: The Natural Rolling Paper.
The Man Behind the Roll: Josh Kesselman
Josh Kesselman isn’t your typical CEO. He is a passionate historian of rolling papers and a relentless innovator. His journey started with a simple, revolutionary idea: Why are we smoking chemicals? In 2005, after years of research in Alcoy, Spain—the birthplace of rolling papers—Josh launched RAW. His obsession with detail, from the patented CrissCross watermark (which prevents “runs” and ensures a smooth burn) to the use of natural acacia gum, turned RAW into a global empire built on transparency and authenticity.
“The Natural Way”: More Than a Slogan
RAW papers are unbleached and unrefined. You can see it in their signature brown hue, so thin that you can see through it. Josh’s commitment to a plant-based, non-GMO, and vegan lifestyle isn’t just marketing; it’s the core DNA of the brand.
By removing the chalk, dyes, and burn additives found in traditional white papers, RAW allowed connoisseurs to finally taste their flower without the interference of paper flavor.
🛠️ Innovation Beyond the Paper: The RAW Ecosystem
Josh Kesselman didn’t stop at papers. He built an entire ecosystem designed to elevate the rolling experience:
- RAW Black: The thinnest, slowest-burning paper ever made, designed for the “heads” who want zero paper taste.
- RAW Cones: Solving the “I can’t roll” problem for millions, these are now a staple in dispensaries worldwide.
- RAW Organic Hemp: Made from sustainably sourced, chlorine-free pure hemp.
- The Accessories: From high-tech rolling machines to the iconic “RAW Foundation” charity work, the brand is a 360° cultural powerhouse.
At OZH Times, we only stock brands that respect the plant.