Nationwide Cannabis Franchise Signs Agreement to Develop in Michigan

Cannabis dispensary franchise Unity Rd., from Item 9 Labs. Corp., announced the signing of an agreement to expand with more than 20 dispensaries, alongside creating partnerships with existing dispensary owners through its Local Alliance Program (LAP).

Michigan’s adult-use cannabis market spiked 482 percent in 2020 to more than $500 million according to Headset, a cannabis consumer trend analysis group. Unity Rd. recently signed a deal to purchase three current dispensaries to enter the Michigan market immediately, while the company evaluates other sites for purchase.

“The cannabis industry and all its complexities can be intimidating, leaving even the most capable of investors and operators unsure of where to start,” says Justin Livingston, vice president of franchise development at Unity Rd. “As part of the Unity Rd. network, our partners can operate their dispensaries more efficiently — resulting in more time to focus on growing the business rather than managing it. We’re offering the supportive network and tools they need to reach new heights and achieve their business goals.”

The LAP allows existing dispensary owners to access the buying power, resources, and support network typically reserved for large-scale operations. The program also provides partners with training and guidance through all stages of business — from cash flow to product selection.

The brand is seeking qualified franchise partners in Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Bay City, Big Rapids, Detroit, East Lansing, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Marquette, and Muskegon. The company states it currently has signed multiple agreements with 15 entrepreneurial groups who are in various stages of development nationwide.

Unity Rd. franchise partners receive other resources and supply chain connections via the brand was recently acquired by Item 9 Labs Corp., an award-winning cannabis operator. The combination of the Unity Rd. cannabis retail franchise and premium Item 9 Labs products makes Item 9 Labs Corp. one of the first vertically integrated cannabis franchise companies in the nation.