Open Book Extracts adds CPG vet to bolster private label CBD division 

Cannabinoid product maker Open Book Extracts has new leadership for its private label efforts. The Roxboro, N.C.-based company has named Phoebe Leppla its director of product development, charging her with overseeing its manufacturing and product development divisions, which make specialized products and services for cosmetics in beauty, skin care and bath. 

Leppla joins Open Book Extracts from Clorox, where she led skin care research and development to bring new products to the company’s Burt’s Bees brand. Her nearly 10 years with Clorox also garnered her experience in engineering, formulation and project management skills, as well as using consumer learning to drive product innovation. 

“Blending art and science is a passion of mine, both in my personal life through cooking, theater and music and as a professional ethos,” Leppla said. “In product creation, this intersection is vital. When someone is struggling, the last thing a product should be is difficult to use. The consumer shouldn’t have to choose between beautiful or functional, or choose between a luxurious feeling lotion or CBD — why not both? It needs to add value with ease.”

The company’s private label formulation and manufacturing offering is its latest venture. The company previously has been known for white-label services and bulk ingredient production. Its offerings currently include private label topicals, gummies, capsules, tinctures and culinary products. 

“Adding Phoebe to the Open Book Extracts team is one of the many investments we have made to strengthen our private label division, affirming our commitment and belief in the value of this product offering,” said Open Book Extracts CEO, Dave Neundorfer. “Phoebe and the team’s expertise with beauty and personal care formulations has us excited for a new, premium tier of topical products to enter the CBD market.”