A New Era of Cannabis Convenience on Long Island
In an innovative move akin to Uber Eats for marijuana, Long Island has just witnessed its first legal home delivery of recreational cannabis. This groundbreaking service offers a hassle-free and convenient alternative for cannabis enthusiasts on Long Island, eliminating the need for time-consuming trips to dispensaries.
The Pioneers: Legacy Dispensers
Alexis Hardy, a Garden City resident, was among the first to enjoy this revolutionary service. She enthusiastically remarked, “Usually we drive upstate, so we were like, this could be much easier.” Long Island’s home delivery system owes its inception to Matt Robinson, the CEO of Legacy Dispensers. A former convict for a marijuana-related offense, Robinson now spearheads the first company to venture into Long Island’s cannabis delivery market.
Founder and CEO Matt Robinson saw an opportunity to provide better access to cannabis for those who don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars to obtain a medical license. Robinson told FOX 5 New York, “Legacy is a game changer for those who would otherwise have to travel to recreational dispensaries. And we’re just getting started.”
The Road to Expansion
Legacy Dispensers sources its cannabis from Albany, making it a milestone for the company. Robinson’s team drives twice a week from Albany to Long Island, catering to the high demand. He stated, “There’s just so many people on Long Island. We had 100 orders.”
Currently, runners like Samuel Bunch make the trip to Long Island twice a week, with plans to expand. Orders have a $250 minimum and a $25 delivery charge, but that hasn’t stopped customers from flocking to the service. In fact, on a recent Tuesday, Legacy Dispensers received about 100 orders.
Navigating the Rules and Regulations
To avail themselves of this service, customers must adhere to certain guidelines. These include a $250 minimum purchase, online payment, proof of identity, and being at least 21 years old. Samuel Bunch, a company runner, ensures that the product remains locked away between deliveries.
According to the Rockefeller Institute, only about 10 percent of jurisdictions on Long Island are effectively open for retail cannabis business, so the option for delivery is a game changer for those who would otherwise have to travel to recreational dispensaries.
Targeting a Diverse Clientele
The service has attracted various clients, from restaurant owners to college students. Bunch mentioned, “We go to homes, it’s mainly homes or mini mansions.” Although Long Island has medical dispensaries, the 36 legalized recreational storefronts are still vacant due to regulations.
Overcoming the Past, Shaping the Future
Robinson was issued one of New York’s “conditional” licenses – available only to someone convicted of a marijuana-related offense. Having sold marijuana before it was legal in the state, Robinson is now smarter and more determined than ever to succeed. He confidently stated, “Everyone has had things in the past. Mine’s out there now that it’s out there I’m proving I can do it.”
The Future of Cannabis Home Delivery
Despite the impending opening of recreational dispensaries on Long Island, Robinson remains optimistic about continuing his home delivery service. Hardy, too, believes in its potential, stating, “It feels like you can do something responsibly.”
