Wanda James And Scott Durrah, The First Black, Veteran Marijuana License Holders In The Nation, Are Set To Open A Dispensary In New Jersey

A Black-owned cannabis dispensary has opened in New Jersey.

A news release mentions Simply Pure is set to open its doors on July 27, 2024. The company was founded by Wanda James and her husband, Scott Durrah, pioneers in the space since 2004. Veriheal reported that the two launched Apothecary of Colorado and became the “first Black-owned and veteran-owned dispensary in the United States.” The dispensary, edible company, and growing facility inspired their next venture, Simply Pure in 2010.

According to the company website, the cannabis company disrupted the market by specializing in healthy alternative edibles. Its products were also driven by Durrah, who worked as an executive chef, as he created the high-quality edibles, Veriheal reported.

The company served locals in the Denver, CO, area through its storefront and delivery service. Now, the company is expanding to Ewing, NJ, with the launch of Simply Pure Trenton. The 6,000-square-foot dispensary will be led by Tahir Johnson, president of the Minority Cannabis Business Association, who will guide the shop toward becoming a go-to destination spot for medical patients and adult-use consumers.

The business will carry brands such as Cookies, Garden Greens, Miss Grass, Hamilton Farms, Select, and Wana. There will also be a section dedicated to Black-owned brands such as Mudd Brothers, Butacake, Precious, and Prolific Growhouse.

Simply Pure Trenton also becomes “one of the first Black-owned social equity businesses awarded an adult-use cannabis license in New Jersey,” the news release states.

“This is more than a grand opening; it’s a meaningful step forward as we cultivate equity in the New Jersey market and beyond,” Johnson said. “As someone who has endured the harsh effects of cannabis prohibition multiple times throughout my life, it brings me great joy to supply my community with accessible, legal, and high-quality products. Furthermore, I’m excited to create jobs for those in my community who want to join us on this journey to creating change.”

James commented:

“With his passion for his community, family and creating generational change, Tahir is the perfect person to lead Simply Pure Trenton as we expand outside of Colorado for the first time. This is the beginning of our mission as we strive to partner with more social equity licensees and help those impacted by the War on Drugs redefine the U.S. cannabis industry.”