Village Brands, the cannabis company founded by NBA veteran Al Harrington and industry pioneer Dan Pettigrew, has officially opened its first East Coast location in New Jersey. This marks a significant milestone for the duo as they expand their presence in the cannabis industry, starting with their Hoboken-based dispensary.
Harrington, who has been involved in cannabis advocacy for over 13 years, was inspired to start his first venture, Viola, after helping his grandmother treat her glaucoma with medical cannabis. Now, with Village Brands, Harrington and Pettigrew aim to bring access to high-quality cannabis products nationwide.
“I’m grateful to have the opportunity to bring my love of and experience in the cannabis industry over the last 13 years to Jersey,” said Harrington. “It’s a full-circle moment to open a dispensary in the state where I was stopped and frisked as a kid who had never even touched flower.”
Along with offering premium cannabis products, Village Brands remains committed to addressing the disproportionate impact of cannabis prohibition on communities of color. Harrington has been a strong advocate for more equitable opportunities within the cannabis industry, particularly for people of color. Harrington and Pettigrew also supported New Jersey’s 2020 campaign to legalize cannabis, known as NJ CAN 2020.
The Hoboken dispensary will carry a wide range of products, including offerings from Harrington’s acclaimed Viola brand. To celebrate the grand opening on September 21st, Village Brands will collaborate with local businesses, offering special promotions and deals to foster community engagement.
“We’re excited to open our first East Coast location,” said Pettigrew. “A lot is happening in the industry, and we look forward to continuing to grow our brands in New Jersey and beyond.”
