Simply Pure Trenton is reportedly the first black-owned dispensary in multiple states

Tahir Johnson and Wanda James made history partnership to launch Johnson’s Simply Pure Trenton franchise in multiple states under a licensing agreement, contrary to the common trend of partnerships with established operators operating in multiple states.

According to , Simply Pure is believed to be the first black-owned retail operator in multiple states. The business expanded through outside investors and debt and equity deals, which Johnson described as the route that made the most sense for the retailer.

“I’ve had bigger companies with deeper pockets want to partner with me, but it just wouldn’t make sense. Not only am I part of the brand, but I also have Wanda herself as a mentor.”

Johnson, also president of the Minority Cannabis Business Association and a member of MJBiz Daily’s advisory board, described the company’s practice of dedicating shelf space to other Black-owned cannabis products at the point of sale. “It’s right in the middle of the floor, in the most visible spot in the dispensary, so those brands get the most attention.”

In addition to providing Black-owned businesses with prime space in their stores, Simply Pure also partnered with ButACake, a Black-owned concentrate company, to create marketing displays in their stores.

ButACake CEO Matha Figaro said in an email that the initiative is essential and a model of collectivism and collaboration amongst minority-owned brands.

“This opportunity demonstrates the power of collaboration among minority-owned brands seeking visibility in the competitive cannabis market,” Figaro wrote.

Figaro added: “The Simply Pure shelf exposure not only extends our reach, but also highlights the importance of equitable product placement on shelves.”

James, for his part, believes Simply Pure’s reception at its grand opening in late July heralds a vivid future for the partnership, which they each describe as a passion project.

“It was a genuine turnout. It had such a big weight to it. Everyone was up for it. The industry was a passion for both of us,” James told MJ Biz Daily, “and we both had a lot of the same feelings about the business, what the plant represented and what it could mean to the community.”