After a great deal of opposition and debate, Burb Cannabis was able to open a new dispensary right next to the University of British Columbia campus on the west side of Vancouver.
The store, Burb’s eighth in the province, commenced sales on Friday. The dispensary chain claims that it is the first cannabis shop to open so close to a major university campus anywhere in the world.
When the company applied for its license three years ago, those opposed created a petition that received over 2,000 signatures. British Columbia Premier David Eby was one of the prominent figures on that list along with many who thought its proximity to a school was unacceptable.
Some thought that its location would deter potential students who reside in countries where cannabis is illegal from the institution.
Burb had a party to celebrate on opening day that featured a local DJ and free pizza. The company says it has created a UBC apparel line for those who are enthusiastic about education and pot.
“Let’s cut the ribbon, let’s get high!” CEO John Kaye said at the party Friday. Many attended the launch.
The store carries flower, pre-rolls, concentrates and other products one would expect to find. “Our focus is on offering the best menu possible, with exclusive products you’ll only find at Burb,” General Manager Peter Pittson said, “such as the Jellee hand-rolled hash-holes and limited run merchandise and accessories.”
Read more: Germany votes to legalize recreational cannabis possession, distribution framework needed
Read more: Canada creates Cannabis Industry Forum to address challenges in the sector
BC only allows a cannabis business to have eight stores
The province has put a cap on the number of stores a company can have. This has prompted Burb to expand its business into other regions of Canada and abroad.
“With uncertainties around when this arbitrary eight-store provincial cap will be lifted or expanded, we’ve been forced to look for growth outside of our home province,” Kaye said.
Burb says it is partnering with Atlantic Cultivation to sell its cannabis flower in Newfoundland. The company has also set its sights on the California market in the U.S.
Many cannabis shops in Vancouver that offer delivery service make frequent trips out to the UBC campus, but that may become a thing of the past now. Its proximity to Wreck Beach is sure to please those who frequent the clothing-optional attraction during the summer months.
rowan@mugglehead.com
