AYR Wellness Inc., a multistate cannabis operator headquartered in Miami, is set to close four dispensary locations across Massachusetts and lay off approximately 150–157 employees, according to filings with the Massachusetts Workers Adjustment and Retraining Act (WARN).
Key Developments
- Facility Closures and Staffing Reductions
AYR initially filed notice that its cultivation and retail operations at the Milford site will cease by September 29, leading to the termination of 157 workers.
In tandem, the company confirmed the closure of four dispensaries located in Boston, Needham, Somerville, and Watertown. Across all Massachusetts operations, total job losses are expected to exceed 150 employees. - Strategic Restructuring Underway
These closures and downsizing efforts are part of a broad restructuring initiative designed to reduce debt and divest assets. AYR has made clear its intention to sell holdings in multiple jurisdictions and gradually wind down operations. - Leadership Statement
Scott Davido, serving as Interim CEO, underscored the strategic nature of the decision, stating that the company is committed to maximizing value for stakeholders and managing obligations through a formal Restructuring Support Agreement (RSA) negotiated with its creditors.
Broader Context and Potential Impact
AYR is one of several cannabis multi-state operators grappling with debt burdens and operational contraction. It has already divested dispensaries in states including Illinois, where it closed and sold four locations, and has begun liquidation procedures under Canada’s creditor protection framework.
In Massachusetts, the shutdown will affect not only cultivation facility staff but also retail employees across the affected dispensary sites. At least one WARN filing confirms layoffs at the Milford cultivation center by late September, though the full extent may be broader depending on subsequent corporate actions.
Looking Ahead
The closures raise questions about the sustainability of heavily leveraged cannabis operators amid market pressure. As AYR moves forward with asset sales and financial restructuring, remaining operations in Massachusetts and other states may face further downsizing or divestitures.
Affected employees and local economic stakeholders will be watching how the company executes its RSA plan, and whether state regulators will respond with any relief or workforce transition assistance—as other states have in similar situations.
Dabbin-Dad Newsroom
