Our Story Begins with Purpose
At Village Brands, we believe cannabis retail should be about more than transactions—it’s about transformation, community, and creating spaces where quality meets accessibility. Our journey started with a simple yet powerful vision: to revolutionize how people experience cannabis dispensaries across Broadview & Chicago, IL, & Hoboken, NJ. We’re not your ordinary flower shop, and that distinction drives everything we do from our flagship locations to the carefully curated products lining our shelves.
Our roots run deep in the cannabis industry, beginning with the founding story of Viola Brands in 2011. When Al Harrington, former Denver Nuggets NBA player, watched his grandmother Viola struggle with glaucoma and high blood pressure, he knew there had to be a better way. Despite her initial resistance, she eventually tried cannabis and experienced immediate, life-changing results. This personal transformation sparked a movement that would grow far beyond Colorado’s early recreational market, eventually reaching twelve different markets and Canada by 2020.
Building Community Through Cannabis
In 2019, Dan recognized a critical gap in the cannabis retail landscape. Big corporations were failing to connect with local communities, treating dispensaries like generic storefronts rather than neighborhood gathering places. This realization led to the creation of Village Brands, initially focused on acquiring licenses in limited market states while maintaining an unwavering commitment to authentic community engagement. We understood that successful cannabis retail requires more than just products—it demands genuine connection, education, and a deep understanding of each unique market we serve.
The name Village Brands reflects our core philosophy: “It takes a village to raise a child.” This principle guides our approach to cannabis retail, recognizing that building a thriving dispensary requires collaboration with local communities, partnerships with quality producers, and dedication to customer education. We’re multi-state operators who maintain a hyperlocal focus, ensuring each location feels like home to you, whether you’re visiting our recreational dispensary for the first time or you’re a longtime member of our community.
Quality Curation and Customer Experience
Our menu curation process sets us apart from typical marijuana dispensaries. We meticulously select products based on quality and experience rather than simply stocking shelves with whatever’s available. Each item undergoes rigorous evaluation to ensure it meets our standards for potency, purity, and overall customer satisfaction. This careful selection process means customers can trust that every product, from premium flower to innovative edibles, represents the best the industry offers.
We proudly feature Viola Brands products throughout our stores, maintaining the legacy that began with helping cancer and HIV patients access quality cannabis medicine. This partnership allows us to offer products with proven track records of excellence while supporting the mission of building generational wealth in Black and brown communities. Our commitment extends beyond simple retail—we’re creating pathways for economic empowerment while delivering exceptional cannabis experiences.
Innovation Meets Accessibility
Our approach to cannabis retail combines cutting-edge innovation with welcoming accessibility. We’ve designed our spaces to feel inviting for both seasoned cannabis enthusiasts and newcomers exploring legal marijuana for the first time. Our knowledgeable staff provides personalized guidance without overwhelming customers with industry jargon, creating an educational environment where questions are encouraged and expertise is shared freely.
- Expert Consultation: Our team members receive extensive training on cannabinoid profiles, terpene effects, and consumption methods
- Product Education: We offer detailed information about sourcing, testing, and expected experiences for every item
- Community Events: Regular educational sessions and social gatherings strengthen local connections
- Seamless Shopping: Streamlined processes ensure efficient, enjoyable visits every time
Vision for the Future
Village Brands represents more than a cannabis dispensary chain—we’re building a lifestyle brand that seamlessly blends innovation, culture, and uncompromising quality. Our expansion strategy focuses on entering markets where we can make meaningful community impact while maintaining the personalized service that defines our brand. We’re not interested in becoming another corporate cannabis company that loses touch with customers. Instead, we’re committed to sustainable growth that preserves our community-focused values.
Looking ahead, we continue investing in technology that enhances customer experiences without replacing human connection. From improved inventory systems ensuring product availability to educational platforms helping customers make informed decisions, every innovation serves our mission of making premium cannabis accessible and enjoyable. Our vision extends beyond traditional retail, encompassing community partnerships, social equity initiatives, and continuous advancement of cannabis normalization throughout New Jersey & Missouri.
