The One Plant cannabis retail store, the first of its kind in the area, opened for business today and if the first hour is any indication, sales will be high going forward.
“There were about 10 people waiting outside when we unlocked the doors,” manager Ryan Grenville said. “As soon as I stuck my head out of the store, they all jumped out of their cars and ran in.
"Sales are already good an hour in," he added.
The approximately 5,000-square-foot building on Ardagh Road is sleek inside and looks like something more akin to an Apple store with shiny, white tables and tablet screens set up for customers to place an order.
After hitting the self-serve area, you can then head over to the retail counter and pick up your purchase.
If you have questions, as Grenville says most people do, there are usually seven or eight staff to help out.
“We have seen so many come in with just questions; not looking to buy, but just to be informed,” Grenville said. “We love that and encourage that. Many are already experienced and have come in just looking to learn how to navigate the order screens.”
Upon walking into One Plant, customers are met by security who require ID, as no one under 19 is allowed inside.
Once inside, people can head to a screen and search the full list of the items available.
“It is basically like an online catalogue of everything we have in stock as far as cannabis products,” Grenville said. “Whether you’re searching for a Sativa, a hybrid, an oil or edible, you can scroll through the screen and place your order.
"You can also get more information on that item such as its percentages, who created it, where it was grown and even the flavour profile," he added. "We want this to be a full experience for anyone who walks through our doors.”
Barrie is the third location in the province under the One Plant banner, with stores in Ajax and Stouffville already up and running. Toronto and Ottawa are opening soon, according to the company's website.
