Bridgeport, CT is now home to the latest addition in the state’s burgeoning cannabis industry. Higher Collective has officially opened its doors on Fairfield Avenue, marking the company’s sixth location in Connecticut. This new store aims to foster community engagement and provide minority leaders with ownership opportunities in the cannabis sector.
A Community-Focused Expansion
Higher Collective’s expansion into Bridgeport underscores the company’s commitment to inclusivity and local engagement. Owned by Connecticut-native Keanaha Abrams, the store’s grand opening was celebrated with Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim and other local officials. Abrams expressed pride in serving the Bridgeport community and highlighted the store’s role in creating job opportunities.
- Ownership Diversity: Each Higher Collective store is owned by a different social equity applicant, promoting minority leadership within the cannabis industry.
- Community Partnerships: The Bridgeport store is partnering with Black Rock Food Pantry, serving as a donation hub to support local initiatives year-round.
Ganim praised the store for its efforts in reaching out to the Black Rock community and other local businesses, emphasizing the positive impact on the city’s economic landscape.
Grand Opening Festivities and Promotions
The grand opening of Higher Collective in Bridgeport was marked by a vibrant two-day celebration featuring various promotions and activities. The event aimed to attract customers and integrate the store into the local community seamlessly.
Opening Day Offers:
- Gift Bags: The first 100 customers making a purchase at 1:00 PM on Friday received exclusive swag bags.
- 20% Off First Purchases: All initial purchases during the event were discounted by 20%.
- Founder’s Club: Customers who purchased during the event were eligible for a 20% discount on future purchases until they saved $1,000.
- Pop-Ups and Food Trucks: Local vendors, including Stoked and Black Rhino, along with community partners and cannabis brands, were present alongside food trucks to enhance the celebratory atmosphere.
These promotions not only incentivized immediate sales but also encouraged long-term customer loyalty through the Founder’s Club initiative.
Social Equity and Economic Empowerment
Higher Collective is dedicated to ensuring that underrepresented communities have a substantial stake in the growing cannabis industry. By offering ownership opportunities to minority leaders, the company aims to address historical inequities and promote economic empowerment within these communities.
- Job Creation: The new store in Bridgeport contributes to local employment, providing jobs to residents and fostering economic growth.
- Social Equity Applicants: Higher Collective prioritizes social equity applicants for store ownership, ensuring diverse leadership and representation in the cannabis market.
Abrams emphasized the importance of maintaining strong community ties and supporting local efforts, highlighting the store’s ongoing partnership with the Black Rock Food Pantry as a testament to their commitment.
Navigating Regulatory Landscapes
Operating in Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport, Higher Collective faces unique challenges due to the ongoing moratorium on cannabis retail in the area. Despite these regulatory hurdles, the company has successfully established its presence by focusing on strategic partnerships and community involvement.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 3369 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, CT |
| Store Hours | Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM Monday-Saturday: 9 AM – 8 PM |
| Discounts Offered | 10% off for veterans, teachers, students 21+, first responders, medical employees, and social workers |
| Loyalty Program | High Fliers Loyalty Program with rewards for every purchase |
| Educational Space | “Flower U” dedicated to cannabis education |
This table highlights how Higher Collective is addressing regulatory challenges while providing value to its customers through various programs and educational initiatives.
Future Prospects and Community Impact
As Higher Collective continues to grow, its impact on the Bridgeport community is expected to deepen. The store’s focus on social equity and community support positions it as a key player in the local economy and a model for responsible cannabis retail.
“I’m proud to play a role in ensuring underrepresented communities have a real stake in this growing industry,” Abrams stated during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. This sentiment reflects the company’s broader mission to integrate social responsibility with business growth, ensuring that the benefits of the cannabis industry are widely shared.
- Long-Term Goals: Expand partnerships with local organizations and continue offering community support through donations and educational programs.
- Sustainable Growth: Focus on maintaining a positive relationship with the community and adapting to evolving regulatory environments.
Higher Collective’s new Bridgeport location not only signifies business expansion but also reinforces the company’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all community members.
Maria Garcia is an award-winning author who excels in creating engaging cannabis-centric articles that captivate audiences. Her versatile writing style allows her to cover a wide range of topics within the cannabis space, from advocacy and social justice to product reviews and lifestyle features. Maria’s dedication to promoting education and awareness about cannabis shines through in her thoughtfully curated content that resonates with both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
