Hamden, CT – A third cannabis retail store has been proposed for Whitney Avenue, potentially bringing the town’s total to three such businesses within a three-mile stretch along Route 10. The latest location is set to occupy a vacant lingerie store at 3490 Whitney Avenue in the Westwoods Corner shopping plaza, home to tenants like Talbot's and M&T Bank.
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Jananii, LLC, a Maryland-based company, submitted an application to the Hamden Planning and Zoning Commission to repurpose the 1,200-square-foot space previously occupied by Lady Olga’s Lingerie. If approved, this new cannabis shop would sit between two other cannabis retailers, which are slated to open in former car dealership and deli locations, although neither has commenced operations yet.
In its application, Jananii stated that the location was chosen for its compliance with zoning regulations, its proximity to other commercial properties, and easy access for customers and staff.
A traffic study included with the proposal found the new shop would have a negligible effect on local traffic, with an expected 29 additional vehicle trips during weekday rush hours and 35 during peak periods on weekends.
The Hamden Planning and Zoning Commission will continue the public hearing on the proposal on September 24, according to Town Planner Eugene Livshits.
Hartford County currently holds the highest concentration of cannabis dispensaries in Connecticut, while New Haven has approved five retail establishments, two of which are already operational. Neighboring towns like Orange and Derby have also authorized cannabis stores, adding to the growing competition.
Challenges Facing Connecticut’s Cannabis Industry
Despite the rapid expansion, industry insiders, such as Ben Zachs, CEO of Fine Fettle Dispensary, are questioning whether customer demand can keep pace with the number of new shops.
“Opening a cannabis retail store is a major investment,” Zachs explained. “With high operational costs and Connecticut’s modest sales numbers, the market is not booming. The real challenge is determining if the business model makes sense in such a competitive landscape.”
Zachs, who operates seven dispensaries in Connecticut, said his approach focuses on opening stores in underserved areas rather than areas saturated with competition. He noted that his company is looking to expand to West Hartford, where two shops already exist, and to North Haven.
“We believe the demand is very localized,” Zachs added. “It makes more sense to bring cannabis stores to new areas than to open more in regions where competition is high.”
With several cannabis stores launching last month, Zachs speculated that some operators in more competitive areas might face difficulties staying afloat. “Investors are realizing this isn’t a ‘pot of green gold.’ It’s a tough, capital-intensive business with a lot of competition.”
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