Bronx Dispensaries See Growth as Legal Sales Surge Amid Crackdown on Illicit Market

Today, Assemblymember John Zaccaro (D - Bronx) and Dutchie, a leading technology provider in the cannabis industry, completed a successful tour of three prominent cannabis dispensaries in the Bronx. The tour emphasized the essential role these businesses play in the community and highlighted ongoing efforts to combat the illicit market, which has contributed to rising sales for legal dispensaries across New York.

The day began with a press conference at Hush, located at 2460 Williamsbridge Rd in Assemblymember Zaccaro’s district, where he provided an update on the state of the legal cannabis industry. His remarks centered on bolstering the legal market while addressing the challenges posed by unlicensed operators. “The proliferation of illegal cannabis being sold in our communities has remained one of the issues I hear most about from constituents since taking office," said Assemblymember John Zaccaro, Jr. “Today's tour is about hearing from the owners of legally licensed cannabis dispensaries directly to better understand what is working to help improve enforcement, regulations, and the licensing process. As one of the leading members in the State Assembly working to stop the sale of illegal cannabis while supporting our legal dispensaries, the information they share is invaluable.”

Zaccaro’s legislative efforts, particularly his sponsorship of legislation, which landed in the Final 2024 State Budget, aimed at cracking down on unlicensed cannabis shops, have been instrumental in safeguarding the legal market. His leadership has been widely supported by industry stakeholders like Dutchie, who are committed to ensuring that licensed operators thrive as the illicit market is curtailed.

Deniz Ozkurt, co-owner of Hush, also commented on how enforcement efforts have benefited their business. “We were thrilled to host Assemblymember Zaccaro today and are proud to be part of the legal market’s success in the Bronx. At Hush, we strive to provide responsible and educated use of cannabis. Given the recent initiative to eliminate illicit shops, we are putting emphasis on supporting the wellbeing of our community with increased customer service, including extended hours and delivery services.”

Following the press conference, the tour continued with a visit to The Bronx Joint at 925 Hunts Point Ave. This stop showcased the dispensary’s contributions to the local economy and community. Alex Ortecho, owner of The Bronx Joint, stated, “It was an honor to welcome Assemblymember Zaccaro and Dutchie. The focus on shutting down illegal dispensaries has driven more customers to licensed businesses like ours. This allows us to concentrate on serving our community safely and responsibly while fostering local jobs and economic growth.”

The day concluded at ConBud BX, located at 2412 Third Ave, where discussions continued about the evolving cannabis industry in the Bronx. Michael Montas, Owner of ConBud BX said, "Having grown up in the Castle Hill area of the Bronx, I am genuinely excited to contribute to the evolution of our community through ConBud BX. My passion for the Bronx drives me to create opportunities that uplift our neighborhood and foster positive change in the legal cannabis industry. Together, we can build a brighter future for the Bronx." Jorge Jimenez, COO & Managing Partner at ConBud BX added, “We appreciate the chance to highlight our initiatives at ConBud BX. Our aim is to lead in the legal cannabis industry while raising awareness about the medicinal benefits of cannabis, all while making a positive difference in the Bronx. Today's visit represented a significant milestone in achieving that vision.”

Ali Amirhooshmand, Head of Government Relations at Dutchie, also commented on the significance of the tour and the broader industry shifts: “This tour with Assemblymember Zaccaro highlights the progress New York’s legal cannabis market is making. The increased sales seen by licensed dispensaries are a direct result of the state’s efforts to close illicit shops. Dutchie is proud to support Assemblymember Zaccaro’s leadership in regulating the market, as well as his legislation to enforce tighter controls on illegal operators, which plays a key role in ensuring the success of licensed businesses.”

Dutchie, selected by New York State in 2022 to provide its point-of-sale technology to social equity cannabis stores, continues to play a key role in supporting the growth of a safe, regulated cannabis industry across the state.

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