Budr Cannabis, a multistate cannabis operator based in Norwalk, continues its aggressive growth in Connecticut with the acquisition of three hybrid dispensaries formerly branded The Botanist, combined with innovative event delivery enhancements.
1. Major Store Takeover in Connecticut
In early June, Budr officially absorbed three Botanist locations in Danbury, Vernon, and Montville, marking a +74% expansion in its CT footprint—from four to seven stores. This growth, backed by Poseidon Investment Management, includes outlets in West Hartford, Tolland, Stratford, plus operations in Yonkers, NY.
Founder Carl Tirella emphasized the importance of layering micro-cultivation capabilities, giving Budr control over product quality, distribution, and customer experience. The company is actively seeking a 10,000 sq ft cultivation farm—focusing on Danbury or Manchester locations—to vertically integrate production. This positions Budr as a potential #2 cannabis provider in CT, just behind current leader Fine Fettle.
The brand promise? Seamless transitions: “Customers will see mostly the same faces behind the counter,” Tirella assured. As part of culture continuity, existing staff have been retained, and new signage quickly went up post-acquisition.
2. Backing from Poseidon Bridges Growth & Community Goals
Poseidon Investment Management played a significant role in financing the acquisition. Its co-founder and managing director, Emily Paxhia, remarked the deal reflects their dedication to fostering “responsible growth” in the cannabis industry. Budr has reiterated its commitment to cannabis education, top-tier customer service, community involvement, and social equity—creating job training and opportunities for those affected by past cannabis-related policies.
3. Strategic Vertical Integration & Market Edge
Tirella explained that CT’s strict regulatory environment—capped at 30% THC flower and limited packaging choices—has driven many consumers across state lines. He hopes that micro-cultivation will allow Budr to innovate within state rules, maintain transparent product integrity, and ultimately close competitive gaps with nearby markets like Massachusetts and New York.
In discussions with the Danbury mayor, Budr aims to launch a large-scale cultivation facility locally, emphasizing a community-focused path to expansion.
4. Bringing Budr to Live Events
Meanwhile, Budr has partnered with Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater to offer on-site and mobile ordering via QR codes, along with an in-venue kiosk—following in the footsteps of Hi! People at Westville Music Bowl in New Haven. This event-focused rollout allows concertgoers (21+) to pre-order and pick up cannabis—but only at licensed events and with strict age verification, ensuring adherence to state regulations.
What This Means for Connecticut Consumers & Stakeholders
- Broader Access: Patients and adult-use consumers gain easier access in Danbury, Vernon, and Montville.
- Locally sourced product potential: A future cultivation facility enhances supply chain transparency.
- Economic & social benefits: Job creation, training, and a socially equitable approach support local communities.
- Event convenience: Integration with venues like Hartford Amphitheater marks a new frontier in on-demand cannabis access.
Final Take
Budr’s aggressive expansion—spanning dispensary takeovers, vertical integration plans, and event-access innovation—signals deepening maturity in Connecticut’s cannabis environment. With mixed adult-use and medical models, vertical control, and socially conscious strategies, Budr is positioning itself as a leading player in the evolving cannabis retail landscape.
Dabbin-Dad Newsroom
