I’ve chosen to see this as a pay to play set up. I get to use the brand name and reputation to sell quality products, while being left alone to take care of my business and my customers as I see fit. The little bit I pay in franchise fees is worth it to me for the branding.

I like the quality of most of the American Shaman products, and I love the freedom to run my store in a way that serves my customer base. While the franchise or is not as involved as they could be, they do provide some support and training and excellent products, while giving owners the flexibility to carry other brands and run their businesses without too much micromanagement. Some areas have very strong affiliations between franchisees which is great for beginners because it’s a great place to learn the do’s and don’ts of this ever-changing industry.

I don’t like it when corporate promises something and then doesn’t deliver. They’ve done that with a few product launches. And more than anything it seems like the franchise or treats the franchisees more like licensees. They’re not consistent with their promises

If the corporate office would stop under cutting their franchisees by offering deep discounts online to all customers across-the-board, including customers that belong to franchisees, there would be a lot less tension in the system. It can definitely be a profitable business, and it’s great for people who want and need the support of a larger organization. The main reason I got involved is because I think it will be beneficial and potentially help me become a dispensary when Cannabis becomes federally legal.