Columbia Care opens first N.J. dispensary with plans to add more

Columbia Care Inc. has opened its first medical marijuana dispensary in New Jersey, it announced on Friday.

The multistate medical cannabis operator said the dispensary, which has begun serving customers today while adhering to both local and state social distancing guidelines, is located at 1062 N. Delsea Drive in Vineland.

Columbia Care is one of only three operators licensed to dispense in the southern region of the state, it said.

The new location, which will be supported by Columbia Care’s 50,000-square-foot cultivation and manufacturing facility, will produce its first harvest next month. Patients will be able to pick up their medicine through curbside and express options as well as from its online Virtual.Care portal.

“Our opening in New Jersey marks a significant turning point and we’re excited to bring our industry-leading services and exceptional team to a new market, especially at a time when patients need them most,” Nicholas Vita, CEO of Columbia Care, said. “We appreciate the tremendous support we have received from the local and state governments, and remain committed to creating new jobs, increasing access to high-quality cannabis products, and improving the lives of New Jersey’s residents. With voters expected to pass the adult use ballot measure later this year, our ability to open two additional dispensaries will allow Columbia Care to be the market leader in New Jersey.”

The dispensary will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

“We are glad to officially welcome Columbia Care to our community. Their operations are best in class and a great addition to the list of industries that call Vineland home. With the grand opening of this facility, the services they provide will have a significant impact for patients suffering from certain medical disorders or debilitating conditions,”
Vineland Mayor Anthony Fanucci said.