Former Erie County Executive Joel Giambra Ventures into Cannabis Industry with Drive-Thru Dispensary
Former Erie County Executive Joel Giambra has taken a new entrepreneurial step by co-owning a cannabis dispensary in Kenmore that features a convenient drive-thru service. Honey Kenmore, situated on Delaware Avenue in the village, is one of the 20 licensed cannabis dispensaries in Western New York. While other locations on Indian Reservation Territory operate independently of state regulations, Honey Kenmore aims to provide a safe and regulated environment for cannabis consumers.
The recent inauguration of the drive-thru at Honey Kenmore marks a significant milestone for the dispensary, offering customers a streamlined approach to purchasing various marijuana products. To ensure efficiency, online pre-orders are required for drive-thru transactions. Giambra expressed his enthusiasm for the new service, highlighting its accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, particularly seniors and those with disabilities.
Housed in a former bank building, Honey Kenmore benefits from a built-in vault for secure product storage. Giambra emphasized the dispensary’s commitment to serving diverse customer needs, stating, “There are a number of our customers who come to this store who are not able to physically get into the store. This will be a tremendous convenience for them and many other customers.”
Giambra’s personal journey with cannabis began during his battle with throat cancer, where he discovered the plant’s healing properties firsthand. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, “Cannabis is a very important plant. I became aware of the plant many, many years ago, and the properties the plant has when it comes to healing… years ago, I began to understand more and more the benefits of this plant. It helped me.”
The opening of Honey Kenmore aligns with a larger trend in New York State, as the industry continues to expand with the launch of the 200th adult-use cannabis retailer near Albany. Since the legalization of recreational marijuana, dispensaries statewide have collectively generated over $650 million in sales. Despite this growth, authorities remain vigilant in combating illegal cannabis activities, seizing tens of millions of dollars worth of illicit products from unlicensed stores across New York.
The cannabis industry’s evolution in New York reflects a shifting landscape of attitudes and regulations surrounding the plant. As more individuals like Giambra enter the market, opportunities for innovation and accessibility in cannabis consumption are on the rise. Honey Kenmore’s drive-thru service represents a step forward in meeting the needs of diverse consumer demographics, ensuring a seamless and inclusive experience for all patrons.
