Western New York’s cannabis scene is about to get a fresh new spot as Star Buds, a national cannabis business, announces the grand opening of its first dispensary in the region this Friday. Located at 396 Kenmore Ave., just west of Englewood Avenue, the 1,600-square-foot dispensary promises a top-tier experience for local cannabis enthusiasts.
Experienced Restaurateurs Bring Hospitality to Cannabis Retail
The dispensary is spearheaded by Nick Pitillo and Ed Gurbacki, renowned figures in Western New York’s restaurant industry. As the owners of Osteria 166 in downtown Buffalo and Villaggio in Ellicottville, Pitillo and Gurbacki are no strangers to creating welcoming environments.
“Our team is excited to provide our customers a quality experience each time they visit Star Buds,” Pitillo stated on Wednesday. “We’re bringing a hospitality mindset and philosophy to this new retail business. It’s a people-first approach so that the quality of the service we provide and our engagement with each customer matches the quality of the products we will be selling.”
Their extensive experience in the restaurant sector is expected to translate seamlessly into the cannabis retail space, emphasizing customer service and a high-quality product selection.
Star Buds’ Offerings and Loyalty Programs
Star Buds aims to distinguish itself with a carefully curated selection of cannabis strains and innovative customer engagement strategies. The dispensary boasts a “top-notch selection of strains, including our signature Cannabis Cup-winning sativa,” as highlighted on their website.
Key Features:
- Signature Strains: Including award-winning varieties that cater to both recreational and medicinal users.
- Higher Rewards Loyalty Program: Customers can accumulate points with each purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts and special offers.
- Drive-Up Window: Established customers can conveniently receive orders placed online, enhancing the shopping experience.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Signature Strains | Cannabis Cup-winning sativa and other premium varieties |
| Loyalty Program | Accumulate points for discounts and exclusive deals |
| Drive-Up Window | Easy access for online order pickups |
These features are designed to provide a comprehensive and satisfying shopping experience, encouraging repeat business and fostering a loyal customer base.
Regulatory Approval and Employment Boost
Final approval for the dispensary came earlier this week from the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, paving the way for Star Buds to officially open its doors. The establishment is set to employ approximately 25 people, contributing to the local economy and providing new job opportunities in the Buffalo area.
“Opening Star Buds is a significant milestone for us,” Gurbacki added. “We are committed to operating within the regulatory framework and ensuring that our business contributes positively to the community.”
The dispensary’s hours of operation are designed to accommodate various customer schedules:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Thursday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
This extended schedule ensures that customers have ample time to visit and make purchases at their convenience.
Community Integration and Future Plans
Star Buds is not just another dispensary; it aims to become an integral part of the North Buffalo community. By leveraging their hospitality background, the owners plan to host community events and educational workshops to inform the public about cannabis benefits and responsible usage.
“We want to create a space where education meets quality,” Pitillo explained. “Our goal is to demystify cannabis and provide our customers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.”
Looking ahead, Star Buds plans to expand its product line to include edibles, topicals, and other cannabis-infused products, catering to a broader range of customer preferences. Additionally, the dispensary intends to collaborate with local businesses to promote a holistic approach to wellness and community well-being.
Michael Brown is a seasoned journalist with a knack for uncovering compelling stories within the realm of cannabis. Through his investigative reporting and in-depth analysis, he sheds light on the regulatory challenges, market trends, and societal impacts of the burgeoning cannabis industry. Michael’s commitment to objective journalism and ethical reporting makes him a trusted voice in providing readers with balanced and informative articles about this rapidly evolving landscape.
