Weed to be sold in gas stations for first time in US history

Starting next year, weed will be available at Circle-K gas stations. This agreement with Green Thumb Industries will launch in 10 stores in Florida. Floridians will now have more access to marijuana products, snacks, and cigarettes. The move would help marijuana head to its mainstream course. 

The sale of weed in such locations is a first in American history. Before its approval, weed was only sold with a permit to sell, which has completely changed. Those 21 years or older can now buy marijuana at a gas station, provided they have a medical marijuana card.

Marijuana Is coming to Circle K gas stations in the US next year. A deal with Green Thumb Industries will begin with 10 stores in Florida. pic.twitter.com/1pcq6QCXI0

— No Jumper (@nojumper) October 19, 2022

Cannabis retailer Green THumb entered a new partnership with Circle K to rent space inside its store. They plan to roll out the dispensaries at “Rise Express.” The Chicago-based company also said it would have a separate entrance in the participating gas stations. If all works fine, there’s a possibility it could expand to 600 locations across all states. 

Moreover, Canada-based Alimentation Couche-Tard, who owns Circle K, confirmed the deal with Green Thumb to lease their spaces to gas stations in Florida. One company spokesperson told CBS,  “To be clear, Circle K is not selling cannabis in its U.S. stores.”

Weed Legality

Weed products that will be available include pre-rolls, marijuana flowers, vapes, and gummies. Furthermore,  a Green Thumb processing facility is also in the works in Ocala, Florida, that will supply these gas stations. It will be operating at the end of 2022. The weed retailer runs seven medical marijuana stores in Florida.

Green Thumb CEO Ben Kovler said, “The opening of Rise Express stores at Circle K locations is a game-changer. Convenience is a strong channel in retail, and people want more access to cannabis.” 

Over 700,000 Floridians are active cardholders in the state’s medical marijuana program. This is according to the Florida Department of Health. Furthermore, weeds are only legal for those with medical marijuana cards in Florida. To buy weed products at the Circle K stores, buyers should present a medical marijuana authorization card.