In a milestone moment for the cannabis industry, Hall of Flowers — long known as a premier West Coast trade event — has made its debut in New York, bringing a wave of West Coast brands into the burgeoning East Coast market.
From California to New York: A Strategic Expansion
Traditionally held in California, Hall of Flowers has over the years become a key gathering for licensed exhibitors, retail buyers, media, and industry thought leaders to network and showcase new products. This year’s edition marks its first appearance in New York, signaling a broader strategy to tap into the rapidly growing Northeast market. High Times
Its arrival is especially timely: New York’s legal cannabis market recently achieved a record month of sales in August, bringing in $214 million—far outpacing previous months and raising projections for the year’s full performance. High Times
Immersion at Pier 36: Industry Figures Gather
Held at Pier 36 amid light rain, the event drew many high-profile stakeholders. The author of the original account secured a press pass through connections, enabling firsthand access to the venue and its participants. High Times
Among the notable figures was Dave Vautrin, newly installed CEO of Fluent, who served as a point of introduction. Though not an exhibitor himself, the author was given a guided overview of the exhibition floor and an opportunity to engage with the growing East Coast brand presence. High Times
The show’s energy was palpable: nearly every turn revealed new faces, handshake introductions, conversations about licensing, cultivation, and brand positioning. The author noted the difficulty of traversing even a single row of booths, highlighting the density of interest and attendance. High Times
Fluent’s Strategy & Eastward Migration of Western Brands
One of the most discussed topics at the show was Fluent’s strategic position in this shifting landscape. Under Vautrin’s leadership, Fluent is expanding its footprint across New York, Florida, Texas, and Pennsylvania. Its assets include dozens of cultivations, manufacturing sites, and retail dispensaries.
A key move: Fluent has entered a partnership with Connected International (which houses brands like Connected, Alien Labs, and Smoken Promises). Under this arrangement, Fluent will become the exclusive in-state cultivator and supplier of Connected’s brands, operating under a royalty model. This alliance is expected to bring higher-tier genetics and product quality to New York’s market.
From the author’s vantage, this development could be transformative for New York’s flower market, which until now has frequently been criticized for underwhelming offerings.
A New Chapter for the East Coast Cannabis Market
The convergence of West Coast brands with New York’s nascent but accelerating cannabis market suggests a turning point. As legalization gains momentum and consumer demand escalates, the physical presence of leading west coast labels may accelerate maturity, competition, and innovation on the East Coast.
The New York edition of Hall of Flowers served not merely as an exhibition, but as a bridge—connecting ecosystems, capital, and know-how across geographical divides. For brands seeking expansion, for investors scouting opportunity, and for regulators and policy watchers, this event may well stand as a marker of a new phase in America’s cannabis industry.
Dabbin-Dad Newsroom
