
How a Bronx Chef Built the First Licensed Dispensary in the Hamptons
Chef Marquis Hayes built Brown Budda, the first licensed dispensary in the Hamptons and the only Black-owned cannabis retailer on Long Island.
Gregory Frye is a cannabis strategist and storyteller who helped pioneer industry education and training before moving into product and brand strategy. He now focuses on the narratives shaping modern cannabis markets.

Chef Marquis Hayes built Brown Budda, the first licensed dispensary in the Hamptons and the only Black-owned cannabis retailer on Long Island.

After following every step of New York’s social equity program, a Brooklyn nonprofit founder is still waiting to open his cannabis dispensary.

New Jersey’s legal cannabis market is bloated, messy, and on the verge of collapsing under its own weight. With over 250 licensed dispensaries across the

Industry veterans share advice and cautionary tales on investing in pre-roll automation.

Chef Marquis Hayes built Brown Budda, the first licensed dispensary in the Hamptons and the only Black-owned cannabis retailer on Long Island.

After following every step of New York’s social equity program, a Brooklyn nonprofit founder is still waiting to open his cannabis dispensary.

New Jersey’s legal cannabis market is bloated, messy, and on the verge of collapsing under its own weight. With over 250 licensed dispensaries across the state, competition is fierce, margins are thin, and many operators are struggling to survive — especially in oversaturated areas like Atlantic City, where at least one retail shop recently laid off most of its staff

Industry veterans share advice and cautionary tales on investing in pre-roll automation.
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