The iconic comedy duo of Cheech and Chong entered the cannabis industry in 1968. With their signature line of cannabis products and dispensaries, they have since become icons in the hemp industry, creating a parent company with multiple brands. One of those brands, Cheech & Chong’s Apothicaria, is a retail franchise opportunity that sells federally compliant CBD, hemp and smoke shop products that can be sold across the country. By Kelsi Trinidad
The iconic comedy duo of Cheech and Chong entered the cannabis industry in 1968. With their signature line of cannabis products and dispensaries, they have since become icons in the hemp industry, creating a parent company with multiple brands. One of those brands, Cheech & Chong’s Apothicaria, is a retail franchise opportunity that sells federally compliant CBD, hemp and smoke shop products that can be sold across the country. Franchises benefit from wide name recognition of the iconic duo as well as their established reputation in the cannabis industry.
After kicking off its first corporate location in Mansfield, Texas, in July, the company has already sold dozens of locations and plans to sell 100 locations in the next year. Chief Development Officer Andrew Brandt is optimistic that the goal will be reached because of what the brand offers.
“I really enjoy the fact that the product sells itself, but it’s also geared towards helping people,” said Brandt.
The unique franchise model of Cheech & Chong’s Apothicaria utilizes a corporate management company, allowing franchisees to be almost completely absentee if they wish. The company handles aspects such as finding the store location, building it out, hiring staff and day-to-day operations.
While franchisees are still able to be owner-operated if they wish, having the option of a management company aiding with operations allows the model to fit various lifestyles. Whether franchisees choose to use the management company for their franchise locations, the corporate team offers weekly and monthly training sessions for all new products, processes and procedures.
For Brandt, the company culture has been a huge benefit. Overall, the goal for Cheech & Chong’s Apothicaria franchises and customers alike is focusing on educating people about its mission, not selling it.
“The culture of the organization is just phenomenal. I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t love the people I work with,” said Brandt. “I mean, not only the people that I work with, but the whole culture of the industry is about helping each other.”
Kelsi Trinidad