Ascend Opens Adult-Use Dispensary in Marlton, New Jersey
Ascend Wellness Holdings has opened an adult-use cannabis dispensary in Marlton, New Jersey, through a partnership with local entrepreneur Michael Santana under the company’s social equity program.
Ascend of Evesham, located at 601 Route 70, began its soft opening Oct. 19. The company scheduled a grand opening for Oct. 23, with promotions and in-store activities.
Santana owns and operates the dispensary independently, with Ascend providing operational support and resources through an agreement permitted under New Jersey law. Santana is a New Jersey resident and business owner who built his career in the construction industry. He also volunteers at expungement clinics across the state, helping people navigate the process of clearing criminal records.
“Opening Ascend of Evesham is the culmination of years of hard work, learning, and believing in the potential of this industry,” Santana said. “As someone who has built a business from the ground up, I understand the importance of creating opportunities, serving customers with integrity, and investing in the community. My goal is to make Ascend of Evesham a trusted destination for cannabis consumers while creating a positive impact here in Marlton and throughout South Jersey.”
The dispensary carries products from cannabis brands including Ascend’s Ozone, Simply Herb, High Wired, Honor Roll and Effin’. The store focuses on product education and customer service and operates daily, according to the company’s announcement.
Danielle Drummond, vice president of social equity at Ascend Wellness Holdings, said the partnership program provides entrepreneurs with training and operational support.
“Michael’s entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to his community, and dedication to building opportunities for others make him an ideal partner,” Drummond said. “Through our social equity partnership program, we aim to help entrepreneurs access the tools, training, and support needed to succeed in this industry. Michael has demonstrated the leadership, determination, and operational excellence needed to build a thriving business, and we are proud to support him as he opens Ascend of Evesham.”
Ascend’s CO-LAB for Social Equity program supports entrepreneurs through mentorship, education and funding. The company said the program focuses on economic empowerment, community reinvestment and creating opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds.
Ascend Wellness Holdings is a vertically integrated cannabis operator with operations in Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania. The company also produces and distributes its own cannabis brands for retail and wholesale markets.
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