By Ryan Van Lenning There has been a lot of medical marijuana news lately, both at the state and local levels. One of the more interesting developments in Oakland is the opening of a 1-stop-shop for cannabis grow systems in East Oakland, near the airport. Like most things American, the cannabis biz is super-sizing, and owner Dahr Mann wants his store iGrow to be the one of the leading mega-stores. It bills itself as "the Bay Area’s largest full service hydroponic superstore" and has already been dubbed the "Wal-mart of Weed" by some.
The 15,000 sq. foot warehouse will sell everything for cannabis production and harvesting except the seeds or plants themselves--lighting systems, heating & cooling systems, containers, soil, nutrients, and fans. In addition to grow products for sale, iGrow will provide services such as full-service installation and even online classes. If you've ever read those periodic reports about house or building fires (like the one in Oakland's Chinatown recently), you will know that faulty wiring or unsafe installation of lamps can get out of control. A qualified staff (called the "GrowSquad") will help with professional installation of grow systems and offer cultivation advice. Qualified customers can even get a recommendation for a medical cannabis card with an on-site doctor.
Even Larry Reid, Oakland Councilmember representing that area, was supportive of the new store in his district. "It's going to create new job opportunities for residents,"While I wasn't able to attend the grand opening of iGrow, I will be meeting with Mr. Mann soon to discuss the economic and job side of the business and to take a tour the store.
Posted by Ryan Van Lenning on 02/10/10
