Higher Collective, an industry-shaping cannabis retail brand, is thrilled with the openings of its first two retail locations in Connecticut. Higher Collective Killingly, situated at 1078 North Main St., Dayville, CT 06241, featuring Connecticut’s first drive-through cannabis service. Higher Collective Willington, located at 11 Phelps Way, Willington, CT 06279.
A Revolutionary Retail Concept
Higher Collective is more than a store; it’s a catalyst for change in the cannabis industry. The brand provides a welcoming space for all to explore cannabis while pioneering a new standard of success for Connecticut’s social equity applicants. Each location embodies a distinct story of resilience and innovation against cannabis prohibition.
“Higher Collective extends beyond retail; we aim to be a transformative force set to challenge the existing cannabis industry landscape,” said Patrik Jonsson, Founder and CEO of Higher Collective. “We’re not just opening stores, we’re opening doors of opportunity for an underrepresented group of entrepreneurs.“
Higher Collective is also excited to introduce Connecticut’s first two operational drive-through cannabis services in the state. Customers of the Killingly and Willington locations can place orders online and pick up their products from the convenience of their car, making for a seamless and efficient pickup experience during opening hours.
Driving Social Equity Forward
The brand amplifies its commitment to equity by forming strategic partnerships with groups like women, veterans, and minorities, where each partner shares equal ownership (50%) of a retail store. Each store is a testament to the transformative power of collaboration against systemic challenges.
Behind the Brand: Introducing “The Collective”
The Collective, the driving force behind Higher Collective, is an alliance of seasoned cannabis industry veterans and strategic community allies. United by a shared commitment to social justice, they have architected a groundbreaking business model designed to broaden opportunities for an increasingly diverse cohort of entrepreneurs. Focused on advancing social equity, The Collective cultivates a culture of community and collaboration. It offers practical resources, educational avenues and tangible opportunities through its collaborators. Curaleaf, a leading international provider of cannabis products, provided the opportunity for The Collective’s retail partners, and serves as a minority partner for the group through an Equity Joint Venture license structure.
“Connecticut’s Equity Joint Venture license, and our partnership with The Collective, is an opportunity for a national cannabis business like ours to offer our resources and size to support social equity leaders in a meaningful and tangible way,” said Matt Darin, CEO of Curaleaf. “Congratulations to all involved in opening these first two stores, and thank you to the state of Connecticut for this unique opportunity, which illustrates how social equity can work to benefit all. In the coming months, we look forward to supporting further expansion of Higher Collective stores in areas including licensing, marketing, mentorship and more.”
Growth on the Horizon
The forthcoming openings of the Killingly and Willington locations are but the start of Higher Collective’s aggressive growth strategy. Advanced planning is already underway for an additional two locations to open later this fall in New London and Hartford, and three more across Connecticut by early 2024.
Grand Opening Events and the Founder’s Rate Program:
Higher Collective is thrilled to invite the community to two spectacular grand opening events in Connecticut. These events will feature ribbon cutting ceremonies, live entertainment, delectable treats and exciting giveaways.
