After our first town hall, the office vibe took a hit. To lift spirits, I bought baby succulents for the team—a small token to remind us of growth and resilience. But just as we settled in, word came down from leadership: the succulents had to go. Apparently, they weren’t “the aesthetic.”
Finding Humor in Workplace Aesthetics
The decision sparked plenty of jokes. We’d quip about aesthetics, poking fun at leadership’s quirks. But deeper issues lingered. Was it just plants? Or a sign of something bigger?
A new colleague from Business Intelligence, Tina, confided in me. She believed her department was “full of spies.” It was a wild thought, but in the cannabis industry—where competition and regulation loom—it didn’t seem far-fetched.
Security in the Cannabis Industry
Bodyguards became a common sight. Their presence, though meant to be unnoticed, raised questions. Was this paranoia or a reflection of the scrutiny faced by legal cannabis businesses? Navigating security, taxes, and public perception, the industry felt like a constant balancing act.
The Complex Web of Policy and Profit
Working in cannabis is a challenge. The industry grapples with federal restrictions, 280E tax burdens, and competition from the illicit market. Legal businesses must fight for survival, often resorting to lobbying and policy influence.
It’s not just about survival but also changing the narrative. Big companies like Red, despite good intentions, often fall prey to public stigma. The very fight to normalize cannabis becomes a double-edged sword, inviting criticism from within and outside the industry.
A Call for Policy Change and Unity
The reality is harsh: without federal support, legal cannabis businesses walk a tightrope. As we push for reforms like tax relief and banking access, the industry must also confront internal challenges. Winter is coming, they told us—and they weren’t wrong. The journey toward normalization continues, with each step forward met with new obstacles.
Tune in next week for more insights as we dive deeper into the journey from Red to Pink!
