Flower City Dispensary: Pioneering New York's Cannabis Transition from Legacy to Legal

In the rapidly evolving landscape of New York's cannabis industry, Flower City Dispensary stands out as a beacon of transformation and resilience. Founded by Jayson and Britni Tantalo, this dispensary is situated just outside Rochester, New York, in the town of Victor. With over three decades of combined experience in the legacy cannabis market, the Tantalos have successfully transitioned their expertise into the legal sector. Their journey from legacy operators to legal entrepreneurs is emblematic of the broader shift happening across the state, where seasoned veterans of the cannabis community are finding new opportunities in the regulated market

Flower City Dispensary is not just another retail outlet; it is a testament to the Tantalos' vision of equity-driven entrepreneurship. As a Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD), it embodies the ethos of the legacy-to-legal movement, which seeks to integrate long-standing cannabis operators into the new legal framework. The dispensary has quickly become a cultural hub, offering not only cannabis products but also serving as a center for education and community engagement. This approach has resonated with the local community, garnering support and creating a loyal customer base

A significant milestone for Flower City Dispensary is its participation in the High Times New York Cannabis Cup: People’s Choice Edition. This event marks the first time the renowned competition is being held in New York, allowing consumers to judge a curated selection of cannabis products. Flower City will offer exclusive judging kits, which include top New York cannabis products and a limited edition 50th Year High Times Magazine. This initiative underscores the Tantalos' commitment to elevating New York's cannabis culture and provides consumers with a unique opportunity to shape the industry's future

The Tantalos' journey has not been without challenges. The process of securing a retail license took over two years, requiring perseverance and the support of industry allies like Grow America and the Temeka Group. Despite these hurdles, their determination has paid off, and Flower City Dispensary is now a thriving business. Jayson Tantalo, Co-Founder and COO, expressed enthusiasm about the legal market's growth, stating, "Legal cannabis is thriving, and we are excited for people to see our take on it." Britni Tantalo, Co-Founder and President, emphasized their commitment to inclusivity and community, highlighting the importance of fostering a forward-thinking environment

Beyond their retail endeavors, the Tantalos are also influential advocates within the cannabis industry. They co-founded the New York Cannabis Retail Association (NYCRA), an organization dedicated to supporting cannabis retailers and promoting a fair marketplace. NYCRA's advocacy efforts focus on simplifying regulations, ensuring fair taxation, and combating the illicit market. The association's motto, "Collaboration over Competition," reflects the Tantalos' belief in the power of community and cooperation to drive industry success

Looking ahead, the Tantalos are optimistic about the future of New York's cannabis market. They see the High Times Cannabis Cup as a pivotal moment in the state's cannabis narrative, providing a platform for consumers to engage directly with the industry. As more dispensaries open across New York, the Tantalos' experience and leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges of a burgeoning market. Their work with NYCRA and participation in events like the Cannabis Cup are integral to shaping a vibrant, equitable industry that honors its legacy roots while embracing the potential of a regulated future