Products Archives | Cannabis Means Business

October 3, 2024October 21, 2024 By CWCBExpo

HITR #21: Ramon Reyes, Happy Munkey

In this episode, KymB gets the “blunt” facts in a candid conversation with Ramon Reyes, co-founder of Happy Munkey.

Ramon tells how he, along with Vladimir Bautista, founded Happy Munkey, a lifestyle brand and underground cannabis institution that has recently evolved into two culture-forward legal cannabis dispensaries in upper Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Ramon describes the uniqueness of New York City’s cannabis culture, where “flower is still king.” He says local weed quality has improved rapidly since last year, as new indoor strains are being developed. Ramon sees New York as leading cannabis in “every aspect, because it’s just getting better. It just started three years ago, and it’s just getting better.”

Listen as Ramon describes the keys to Happy Munkey’s success, which include creating venues where all people feel they are VIPS, feel they are safe, and can just be themselves.

Don’t miss this discussion of New York City vibes, culture and business.

September 26, 2024October 21, 2024 By CWCBExpo

HITR #20: Renata Serban, Highly Elevated CPA

In this episode, KymB gets the “blunt” facts in a candid conversation In this episode, KymB gets the “blunt” facts in a candid conversation with Renata Serban.

Renata Serban is an award-winning cannabis accountant and Founder/CEO of Highly Elevated CPA. Renata Serban has a wide-ranging background in many disciplines, including chemical engineering and finance, making her eminently qualified to advise cannabis entrepreneurs and guide their businesses forward.

Renata, a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Management Accountant, is driven by a passion to help cannabis businesses start, grow, and thrive. With a unique mix of private and public accounting experience, she has successfully served her clients while advocating for the cannabis industry through state and global organizations.

Renata is excited to see more women entering the cannabis space and breaking down stereotypes. She also discusses the specific obstacles faced by cannabis entrepreneurs, many created by the new business operators themselves, who enter a difficult industry with passionate ideals but without a clearly formulated business plan. She describes the challenges of operating in a highly regulated industry and the lack of specific guidance for accountants. Tune in to learn some fun facts about Renata and hear her thoughts on the future of cannabis—change is coming!

September 19, 2024October 21, 2024 By CWCBExpo

HITR #19: Jane West

In this episode, KymB gets the “blunt” facts in a candid conversation with Jane West.

Jane West is both a leading cannabis activist and CEO of the eponymous lifestyle brand Jane West. KymB refers to West as a true “pilgrim of the plant.” As part of her activism, West founded Women Grow in 2014, a pioneering organization that hosts networking events featuring industry leaders to empower women to succeed and influence the cannabis industry.

West shares her journey as a woman entrepreneur in the cannabis space, the challenges she’s faced, and her vision to make the industry more inclusive for women. From starting all of her businesses as a solo entrepreneur from her home office, to leading a movement, Jane’s story is one of resilience and dedication.

Tune in to hear West’s insights on how to survive as an entrepreneur and advocate in the cannabis space.

September 12, 2024October 17, 2024 By CWCBExpo

HITR #18: Solonje Burnett, The Weed Auntie

In this episode, KymB gets the “blunt” facts in a candid conversation with Solonje Burnett, the “Weed Auntie.”

Solonje is a trailblazing Brooklyn-based entrepreneur and activist in the cannabis space. As a two-time co-founder, first with Humble Bloom, and now as Chief Culture & Community Officer at Erven, Solonje shares her insights on how data and community-driven strategies are shaping the industry.

Solonje dives into her passion for self-care, mental health, and creating mindful moments, all while advocating for more diversity and inclusion. Tune in to hear how Solonje is leading the fight for cannabis by putting community first.

Photo by Mara Hoffman

August 22, 2024October 17, 2024 By CWCBExpo

HITR #17: Dharsh Casinathen, Joyleaf

In this episode, KymB gets the “blunt” facts in a candid conversation with Dharshini Casinathen, Co-founder and President of Joyleaf Recreational Weed Dispensary in Roselle, New Jersey.

In this interview, Dharsh shares her personal journey with cannabis, which began in 2018 as a medical patient in New Jersey. After starting her career as a CPA at KPMG Canada and spending over 13 years at PepsiCo, a Fortune 50 company, Dharsh held multiple leadership roles, building a strong foundation in leadership, finance, and operational excellence.

In 2020, an exciting opportunity in the cannabis industry arose, and Dharsh fully embraced it, marking the start of her true passion for cannabis. She went on to co-found the Joyleaf Dispensary in New Jersey, where she created a retail space that offers the perfect product for every moment, while actively working to destigmatize the plant. Dharsh talks about her love for selling cannabis and her dedication to providing her customers with the best possible experience and service. She explains how her corporate experience guides her thinking and her methods to surviving as an entrepreneur in a difficult retail environment.

December 19, 2023October 17, 2024 By CWCBExpo

Dispensaries Can’t Have Sales in NY. What Can You Do Instead?

The cannabis industry in New York is subject to some strict regulations, especially when it comes to running promotions and offering discounts. While businesses in other industries use sales and similar promotions to capitalize on the influx of holiday shoppers, cannabis retailers are unable to do the same. So, what can you do during the holiday season when plenty of shoppers are likely looking for gifts for cannabis-consuming friends and family? It’ll take some creative thinking, but there are solutions.

What are the regulations regarding sales and promotions?

In New York state, licensed cannabis businesses are prohibited from advertising sales or promotions based on the regulations set forth by the New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). This includes giveaways, discounts, and customer loyalty programs.

The precise language of guidance issued by the OCM is as follows:

Licensees cannot give away, including through donation, any cannabis products. Licensees cannot advertise giveaways, discounts, price reductions, points-based reward systems, or customer loyalty programs including, but not limited to, by using the words “sale”, “free”, “price drop”, or “discount” on a menu, in any communications to customers, or elsewhere. This does not prohibit licensees from changing the price of cannabis products or otherwise “discounting” products.

Of course, this doesn’t mean retailers are unable to change the pricing of their products — you just can’t advertise the discount, which sort of defeats the purpose from a marketing perspective. However, reducing prices and other clever sales tactics can still offer a benefit to your customers and your sales numbers.

5 promotions to try when you can’t have a sale

Although you’re not able to advertise holiday sales to your audience — or any other sales for that matter — there are still some reasons you may want to reduce pricing as holiday shopping shifts into high gear. Additionally, there are some ways you can use to remain compliant with New York state law while availing your customers to wallet-friendly options. These five tips can help you drive business and ensure your customers have truly happy holidays at your dispensary.

1. Feature your best-selling and most profitable products

You don’t have to necessarily advertise price drops or discounts to bring in customers. Feature your best-selling products or those with the highest profit margin in your marketing materials as the holiday season approaches. These products may be enough to bring customers in and drive more sales of your most lucrative products without running afoul of New York state law.

2. Bundle products together based on a theme

The holiday season could be a great time to pair some items together based on a theme, such as items that offer a similar effect or those that complement each other nicely. For example, you could offer a “DIY R&R” bundle that contains a stress-busting strain, topical products that ease aches and pains, and edibles that help with relaxation.

Pricing these bundles advantageously compared to purchasing each product inside individually could incentivize customers to buy multiple products instead of just one or two. They also serve to showcase the wide variety of cannabis products your dispensary has on hand. Who knows? Some of your customers may discover their new favorite product this way and come back for more in the future. Consider bundling new products or ones you expect to make a big splash as a way to get the word out about them.

3. Advertise cannabis delivery services

There’s no rule against advertising your cannabis delivery services, and holiday shoppers are often short on time. Let them know that you can bring their gift purchases directly to them when they place an order for delivery. That’s one less stop they’ll need to make during the busy holiday season and they’ll be grateful to your brand for helping them out. It’s also a great way to let people know that your dispensary delivers cannabis, which is a relatively new offering for New Yorkers. Taking advantage of the holiday season to spread the word could result in more sales to a wider area in the new year too.

4. Promote the product types shoppers look for during the holidays

Understanding how shoppers interact with cannabis dispensaries ahead of the holiday season is critical to success. While the biggest cannabis sales days of the year — 4/20 and Green Wednesday — are in the rearview mirror, there’s still time to make one last push before the year’s end.

According to data from Headset, the week before Christmas is a big shopping week in the cannabis industry. Expect shoppers to go for cannabis flower and vape products the most, as they usually do. However, you’re likely to see significant increases in the amount of topicals, cannabis beverages, and edibles. So push these products to make the most of the holiday rush — even though it’s cold outside, these product types are likely to be hot.

5. Showcase holiday-themed products

There’s no shortage of products that fit the theme of the holiday season. Whether it’s an edible in holiday-inspired packaging, a product flavor like peppermint or cinnamon that matches the winter weather, or a frosty-named strain, these products have obvious links to the winter holidays without ever advertising a sale.

Take advantage of the holiday season for your cannabis dispensary

The holiday season is a busy time of year for retailers everywhere, and just because dispensaries can’t have sales doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of opportunity. By considering the tips above, you can make the most out of the holiday season, driving more sales, boosting customer satisfaction, and refining your strategy for the new year.

Yotel Rooftop After Party, CWCBExpo NY 2022

November 17, 2023October 17, 2024 By CWCBExpo

Ohio Legalized Adult Use Cannabis. What Happens Next?

Ohio voters officially approved a ballot to legalize recreational cannabis on Tuesday, Nov. 7. As 57 percent of voters supported the measure, defying Republican legislative leaders who remain opposed to it in the legislature, the passage of Issue 2 made Ohio the 24th state to legalize cannabis for adult use.

What exactly did voters approve in Ohio?

Starting December 2023, Ohio residents aged 21 years old and older will be allowed to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and up to 15 grams of extract in the state. Individuals will be allowed to grow up to 12 plants in a private residence where at least two adults reside. Purchases from licensed dispensaries will be allowed as well, although it will be some time before adult-use dispensaries are open.

A 10 percent tax will be imposed on purchases. Those funds are earmarked to be spent on social equity and job programs, municipalities with cannabis dispensaries, an addiction treatment fund, and administrative costs.

Under Issue 2, consuming cannabis in “public areas” would fall under the state’s “smoking ban,” and land someone with a minor misdemeanor. Furthermore:

Property owners and “any public place” could decide for themselves whether to accommodate cannabis consumption.
Employers do not have to permit or accommodate an employee’s use, possession, or distribution of cannabis.
Someone who grows cannabis could give up to six plants to another adult, as long as no money is exchanged and the transfer is not advertised or promoted to the public.
The state’s current DUI laws will apply to those driving a car, bike, boat, or airplane while under the influence of cannabis. Passengers are also prohibited from smoking or vaping in the vehicle.

What does cannabis legalization mean for Ohio?

The new law would take effect on Dec. 7, 2023, allowing Ohioans to consume, possess, and grow cannabis starting that day. Regulators are expected to begin issuing retail licenses by late 2024, so retail sales are still a ways away.

An analysis from Ohio State University assessed the potential economic impact of legalization on the state earlier this year. It estimated that Ohio could see up to $403.6 million in annual cannabis tax dollars by the fifth year of sales. A separate analysis estimates that the passage of Issue 2 may create 3,300 new jobs in the first year.

Will there be changes to Ohio’s cannabis legalization rules?

It’s important to note that as a citizen-initiated statute, the law is subject to change. Within hours of the issue’s passage, Ohio’s top elected leaders have already expressed their intent to make alterations. Some objectives voiced by Gov. Mike DeWine (R) include restrictions to prevent accidental ingestion, public use, driving while intoxicated, and advertising. There are also requests to revisit the tax structure and use the revenue for county jails or police training.

“From our perspective, we want to make sure that we are maintaining the intent of the voters who passed Issue 2, but also being very thoughtful in giving flexibility back to our local communities in regards to how they use the revenues,” House Minority Leader Allison Russo (D) told Dispatch. Senate President Matt Huffman (R) said he also wants to assess the language regarding THC limits on cannabis products sold in the state.

While questions remain as to what the final language will look like, Gov. DeWine claims none of the finalized language should come as a shock. “I don’t think there’s any surprises out there,” he told reporters.

Still, many advocates are encouraging lawmakers to enact the law as passed in the ballot referendum.

“This vote presents a tremendous opportunity for the state where legal adult-use sales are projected to exceed $1 billion annually,” Policy Director Rodney Holcombe said in a statement. “This move puts Ohio in league with 23 other states that have taken this significant stride forward. We have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of legalized cannabis, including job creation, tax revenue for vital government services and unique business opportunities for entrepreneurs. We urge Ohio officials to promptly enact the law, allowing their constituents to reap these benefits without delay.”

Unlock opportunity and insight with CWCBExpo

As Ohio embraces recreational cannabis, yet another hurdle has been cleared in the cannabis industry’s progress toward full legalization. To delve deeper into the world of cannabis, consider attending trade shows like the Cannabis World Congress & Business Expo in New York, which offer valuable information and know-how for any emerging market. Don’t miss the chance to expand your knowledge and network where the future of cannabis is unfolding. Visit our website to learn more and secure your spot at our next event, June 5th-6th, 2024.

Union Square Travel Agency Ribbon Cutting, Feb 13 2023

May 5, 2023October 25, 2024 By CWCBExpo

8 Licensed Dispensaries in Manhattan to Visit During CWCBExpo

What makes CWCBExpo different in 2023 than prior years? This year is the first one where adult-use dispensaries are open in Manhattan! This means conference attendees can further explore the city’s cannabis scene by making a stop at a Manhattan cannabis dispensary.

4 adult-use dispensaries to visit in Manhattan

All adults 21 and over can shop at adult-use dispensaries. As of May 2023, the below four shops are open and accepting customers in Manhattan.

1. Union Square Travel Agency

Union Square Travel Agency is a cannabis dispensary that opened under a license held by a subsidiary of The Doe Fund, a non-profit organization that offers support to homeless and formerly incarcerated men in New York City. Union Square Travel Agency is Manhattan’s third adult-use dispensary, located one block from Union Square Park. The dispensary carries a wide range of New York-born and bred brands, with new products coming in each week.

How to get to Union Square Travel Agency from the Javits Center: Take the 7 train from 34th Street-Hudson Yards to Grand Central/42nd Street, then transfer to the 5 train downtown on the green line to 14th Street/Union Square.

2. Housing Works Cannabis Co.

The Housing Works Cannabis Co., the first adult-use dispensary to open in New York City, is located in the NoHo neighborhood. The dispensary offers a wide range of cannabis products, including flower, pre-rolls, edibles, concentrates, and accessories. Proceeds from Housing Works Cannabis Co. support Housing Works, a NYC non-profit dedicated to providing housing, healthcare, and other resources for people living with HIV/AIDS.

How to get to Housing Works Cannabis Co. from the Javits Center: Take the 7 train from 34th Street-Hudson Yards to Times Square/42nd Street, then transfer to the R/W train downtown and take that to the 8 Street Station.

3. Smacked Village

Smacked Village is New York’s first Black-owned cannabis dispensary. Located in Soho, Smacked Village is owned and operated by Roland Conner, who was previously convicted of cannabis charges due to Prohibition. The store offers a variety of products, including flower, edibles, and vape products, and aims to build a welcoming environment for all.

How to get to Smacked Village from the Javits Center: Take the 7 train from 34th Street-Hudson Yards to Grand Central/42nd Street, then transfer to the 6 train downtown to Bleecker Street.

4. Gotham

Opened in May 2023, Gotham is located downtown on the Bowery. Intended for a more bespoke experience, the dispensary is geared toward carrying higher-end products from luxury brands in the space. Gotham partners with the not-for-profit STRIVE, which helps communities with employment training and support.

How to get to Gotham from the Javits Center: Take the 7 train from 34th Street-Hudson Yards to Grand Central/42nd Street, then transfer to the 6 train downtown to Bleecker Street. Walk approximately 5 minutes to 3 East 3^rd Street.

4 medical cannabis dispensaries to check out in Manhattan

If you have a New York State medical cannabis card, you can purchase your medicine at one of the four medical cannabis dispensaries in Manhattan. All of these locations are easily accessible by train. Keep in mind, though, that those without a New York State patient ID cannot buy medical cannabis in the stores.

1. Etain Health

Etain Health is a woman-founded and family-run medical cannabis company from New York City. The brand has a few dispensary locations, with one operating in Midtown East. Etain offers medical cannabis products to patients, including flower, capsules, extracts, and lotions, among other options.

The company is committed to advancing social justice issues in the cannabis industry by supporting initiatives that address racial and gender disparities in cannabis. They have a vast selection dedicated to women in this industry, including Potli, Sackville & Co., Chime and Chill, Barbari, and more.

How to get to Etain Health from the Javits Center: Take the 7 train from 34th Street-Hudson Yards to Grand Central/42nd Street, then transfer to the 4 train uptown to 59th street. Walk approximately 3 blocks.

2. MedMen

Less than 2 miles from the Javits Center, MedMen’s New York City location resides among one of the poshest shopping districts in America. MedMen is a strictly medical dispensary. However, non-patients are permitted to enter the store and browse their merchandise.

How to get to MedMen from the Javits Center: Take the 7 train from 34th Street-Hudson Yards to 5th Avenue. Walk south approximately 3 blocks.

3. RISE Dispensary NYC

Located at 2 E. 30th St, RISE Dispensary offers medical cannabis for pickup and in-store shopping. RISE operates dispensaries in 14 states, including in the Empire State. The Manhattan location offers a variety of in-house brands spanning a full spectrum of products, including edibles and vapes. The dispensary provides something for just about everyone and strives to create a unique, comfortable environment and mood for patients.

How to get to RISE Dispensary from the Javits Center: Take the 7 train from 34th Street-Hudson Yards to Grand Central/42nd Street. Transfer to the 6 train and take it downtown to 33rd Street. Walk approximately 3 blocks. Alternatively, you can take the M34/Select Bus Service (SBS) from Hudson Yards to the Empire State Building, and walk approximately 4 blocks south.

4. Columbia Care

Columbia Care is one of the original multi state medical cannabis operators. The Manhattan location, at 212 East 14th St., is known for providing a wide variety of high-quality products and consistently expanding its offerings to fit every lifestyle. Columbia Care strives to create an approachable, straightforward shopping experience for cannabis patients of all kinds.

How to get to Columbia Care from the Javits Center: Take the 7 train from 34th Street-Hudson Yards to Grand Central/42nd Street. Transfer to the 5 train and take it downtown to 14th Street/Union Square. Walk approximately 1 avenue to the dispensary.

What to expect when visiting a dispensary in NYC

Make sure you’re prepared before making your trip to a New York City dispensary. Here’s what you should have on hand before you plan to shop.

Bring a valid ID: This is required to enter all cannabis dispensaries and make a purchase, regardless of whether they are medical or adult-use. Make sure to bring your government-issued ID to prevent any issues. If you’re heading to a medical dispensary, make sure you have your New York State identification card on you.
Bring cash or a debit card: It’s common for dispensaries to only accept cash or debit cards. Make sure to have those methods of payment with you.
Check out the menu ahead of time. Many dispensaries publish their menus online, so you can review the selection and know what you want before you head into the store. Take advantage of this convenient feature.
Ask questions. This is a great opportunity for you to chat with dispensary associates and fellow customers about what they like best about the dispensary experience in the Big Apple.

Are there licensed adult-use dispensaries outside of Manhattan?

There are a few dispensaries outside of Manhattan, though the market has been slow to develop in part due to a court-ordered injunction that prevented cannabis regulators from issuing licenses to adult-use dispensaries in some parts of New York City. In March 2023, a federal appeals court lifted part of the injunction, clearing the way for the market to grow in the other boroughs.

A few days after parts of the injunction were lifted, Good Grades dispensary became the first licensed adult-use dispensary to open outside of Manhattan. Located in Queens at 62 East 13th St., the adult-use location is also New York State’s first woman-owned dispensary, owned by Extasy James and her cousin Michael James, Jr.

While no other adult-use dispensaries have yet opened in New York City, there are additional options for medical patients who want to explore outside of Manhattan. These dispensaries include Sunnyside Medical Cannabis Dispensary in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and Cannabist Dispensary of Brooklyn Heights, also in Brooklyn.

Will more dispensaries open in NYC?

More dispensaries are slated to open in New York City, but the program has been slow to roll out. The number of available cannabis licenses in New York is limited, with a total of 300 retail adult-use licenses available. The New York State Cannabis Control Board approved 99 more dispensary licenses in April 2023, bringing the state’s total to 165. New licenses included locations in Western New York, Central New York, Hudson Valley, and Brooklyn, marking the first to be issued in these regions after the March injunction.

In an effort to prioritize social equity and social justice in the industry, New York State is prioritizing giving dispensary licenses to non-profits and those with prior cannabis convictions. The policy is designed to provide opportunities to those who have been disproportionately impacted by The War on Drugs. More dispensaries are expected to open in the next few months, both in and outside of Manhattan.

Is there cannabis delivery in New York City?

Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) license holders can offer their own delivery services. These license holders may also operate a temporary, delivery-only location for the first 12 months of their license issuance. More information about cannabis delivery can be found in this guidance from the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM).

Get ready for an exciting week with CWCBExpo!

With the first licensed adult-use dispensary locations officially opened, visitors can explore the city’s industry firsthand. If you’re planning to visit CWCBExpo, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the best of Manhattan’s cannabis culture while you’re in town. Plan your visit now and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Conference & ExpoJune 4 - 5, 2025 Javits Convention CenterNew York City