Each month, it showcases Connecticut’s small businesses and showcases the ingenuity and innovation that drives the state’s economy. For February, Affinity Dispensary Manager Ray Pantalena.
When was your company established?
2018
How many employees are working at your company?
38
Who are your customers?
Resident of Connecticut and 21+.
What makes your company unique?
We are one of only two remaining cannabis dispensaries in the state, owned and operated in Connecticut. Being locally owned and operated definitely makes a difference.
What are some fun facts about your business or its history?
Cannabis is a new industry in Connecticut. All employees say he is one of the best places to work.
Why did you choose Connecticut?
Connecticut offers an excellent workforce and robust transportation infrastructure.
What are the biggest advantages of doing business in Connecticut?
Connecticut is small enough for us to be agile and big enough for us to scale.
How are you trying to give back to your community?
I feel lucky to have had enough success to donate to a local Connecticut-based organization.
We work hard to employ and give back to the community from the surrounding areas where we are located.
Where do you see your company in 5 years? 10 years?
We are currently expanding our operations to include new cannabis microcultivators and new retail stores that will open and operate in 2023, and plan to open one new retail store each year.
What are the main things policymakers can do to make your company more competitive?
I hope Hartford’s policymakers continue to be thoughtful in overseeing this new industry to ensure growth and success for both the state and all its stakeholders.