In the heart of New York, a unique opportunity has sprouted for cannabis growers. A dozen "grower's showcases" have emerged across the state, offering marijuana businesses a chance to connect with consumers directly. These showcases come at a crucial time, as New York's cannabis market has been inundated with products and only a fraction have made it to the shelves of the 23 licensed New York dispensaries.
One of the most recent showcases, located just a stone's throw away from the renowned New York State Fair, is creating quite a buzz. At FlynnStoned Cannabis Ranch, nine of New York's 278 licensed cannabis farmers have set up shop. From 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day until September 4, these growers are allowed to sell their products directly to consumers.
For farmers like Joann Kudrewicz, this opportunity is nothing short of exhilarating. "It's a very exciting opportunity," she recently exclaimed to Green Market Report. Kudrewicz chairs the cultivation committee for the Cannabis Association of New York and is also the founder of Ravens View Genetics. She's optimistic that these showcases will help farmers clear out their inventories. While at the same time help to further normalize the plant with consumers and municipalities.
The journey to these showcases was not without hurdles. Initially announced by New York cannabis regulators in May, it took until July for the rules for these farmers markets to be approved by the Cannabis Control Board. The delay meant that New York had amassed an estimated 582,000+ pounds of cannabis flower and products ready for sale, but only a fraction had reached consumers.
The situation prompted the state to take action. Now, various daily or weekly recurring cannabis farmers markets have sprung up across the state to help growers sell their surplus. These markets are scattered across different cities, from New Paltz to Batavia, and cultivators are making the most of them. To date, 52 farmers, 10 processors, and 10 retailers have participated in these showcases.
Kudrewicz believes that the high-profile nature of events like the state fair showcase will encourage more municipalities to endorse cannabis farmers markets. She sees these events as an opportunity for growers to connect directly with consumers, sharing their cultivation methods, product details, and stories without any intermediaries.
Many growers at the state fair market haven't yet made it to the shelves of licensed retailers. Some were initially skeptical about the value of participating in farmers markets, but with the option now open, they're racing to prepare their products. Packaging, labeling, and testing all require substantial investments, but the promise of these markets has motivated many cultivators to get their products ready for prime time.
In essence, these growers' showcases have become a bridge between New York's cannabis farmers and the eager consumers waiting to explore the rich variety of products the state has to offer. As the cannabis market in New York continues to evolve, these showcases promise to be a win-win for growers and enthusiasts alike, turning an oversupply challenge into an exciting opportunity for connection and growth.
The following Cannabis Growers Showcases have been approved by the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). More showcases will be added to this list as they are approved. Stay tuned!
