Viola Brands: Revolutionizing Chicago’s Cannabis Scene – A Pioneer Move
The bustling city of Chicago is poised to welcome an exciting addition to its cannabis landscape. Yesterday was the launch of the first Chicago-area pot shop by Viola Brands, a leading force in Illinois’ flourishing legal weed market. Adding an appealing layer of diversity, the establishment of this pot shop represents a groundbreaking stride towards diversity in the state’s cannabis industry.
Viola Chi’s Dynamic Leadership
The driving force behind Viola Chi is the robust partnership between Dan Pettigrew, a Hyde Park cannabis industry veteran, and his business partner, Al Lomax. This is a coming home of sorts for Pettigrew, who co-founded Viola Brands with former NBA star Al Harrington in Denver in 2011. With Hall of Famer Allen Iverson as a partner, Viola Brands boasts of an influential leadership team.
An Embodiment of Diversity
Priding itself as the premier Black-owned cannabis company in the U.S., Viola Brands continues to carve a distinctive niche. The company, with operations extending across six other states, including Michigan, Colorado, and California, is committed to driving diversity. In Chicago, Viola Chi will concentrate on offering jobs and training to underrepresented communities, particularly to Black and Brown people, who have been marginalized by the industry.
Revolutionizing the Pot Shop Model
Not only is Viola Brands revolutionizing the cannabis industry from a diversity perspective, but it is also changing the way consumers engage with pot shops. Its Lincoln Park location will preserve the drive-up model of the previous emissions testing site. The convenience of driving in, picking up an order, and leaving without ever leaving the vehicle is a significant shift in the customer experience.
Overcoming Industry Hurdles
Despite the challenges faced in Illinois’ cannabis industry, Viola Brands remains resilient. Their innovative approach to creating a diverse and inclusive industry, coupled with their commitment to the social equity program, sets a precedent for other companies in the sector.
