Marijuana coming to Circle K gas stations in Florida

Next year some 10 RISE Express dispensaries will begin to sell medical cannabis at Circle K stores in Florida.

Cannabis is making its way into U.S. convenience stores as Circle K announced an industry-first deal to sell medical marijuana in Florida. Green Thumb Industries, a Chicago-based national cannabis consumer packaged goods company, will sell marijuana through RISE Express dispensaries located at Circle K gas stations.

The initial testing phase, expected for 2023, will see about 10 RISE Express dispensaries open adjacent to Circle K stores in Florida. Through the exclusive agreement, Green Thumb can lease space from Circle K in Florida, where the retailer currently operates about 600 locations.

The “RISE Express” stores will offer patients a selection of branded cannabis products including RYTHM premium flower, Dogwalkers pre-rolls, incredibles gummies and &Shine vapes.

“The opening of RISE Express stores at Circle K locations is a game-changer. Convenience is a strong channel in retail, and people want more access to cannabis. The new RISE Express model is a huge step forward in making it easier and more efficient for patients to purchase high-quality cannabis as part of their everyday routine when stopping by their local convenience store,” said Green Thumb Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ben Kovler.

According to the Florida Department of Health, over 700,000 Floridians are currently registered active cardholders in the state’s medical marijuana program.