'Catalyst' Cannabis Chain Opening CT Stores In Willington, Killingly

WILLINGTON, CT — A cannabis business that is billing itself as "industry-shaping" is set to open its first two Connecticut stores this month as part of an "aggressive" entry into the Nutmeg State.

Higher Collective has scheduled grand openings for Saturday at 1078 North Main Street in Killingly and for Oct. 14 at 11 Phelps way in Willington.

Higher Collective officials were touting the "first drive-through cannabis services" in the state for the locations. The Willington store is occupying a vacancy in an existing shopping plaza and the intent is to use an a drive-up window currently located at the northwest end of the building, according to a letter from town officials to Higher Collective sent in February.

Part of the business model for Higher Collective is a "Driving Social Equity Forward" concept that includes strategic partnerships with groups like women, veterans and minorities, where each "partner" shares equal ownership (50 percent) of a retail store, officials said.

Each store is, "a testament to the transformative power of collaboration against systemic challenges," officials said.

"Higher Collective is more than a store. It's a catalyst for change in the cannabis industry. The brand provides a welcoming space for all to explore cannabis while pioneering a new standard of success for Connecticut's social equity applicants. Each location embodies a distinct story of resilience and innovation against cannabis prohibition," Higher Collective founder and CEO Patrik Jonsson said.

He added, "Higher Collective extends beyond retail. We aim to be a transformative force set to challenge the existing cannabis industry landscape. We're not just opening stores, we're opening doors of opportunity for an underrepresented group of entrepreneurs."

The grand opening events are to feature ribbon-cutting ceremonies, live entertainment, "delectable treats" and giveaways.

Here is the slate:

Killingly Grand Opening:

• Date: Oct. 7
• Time: 2 to 5 p.m. (ribbon cutting at 8:45 a.m.)
• Location: 1078 North Main St., Dayville, CT 06241

Willington Grand Opening

• Date: Oct. 14th, 2023
• Time: 2 to 5 p.m. (ribbon-cutting at 2 p.m.)
• Location: 11 Phelps Way, Willington, CT 06279