‘Luxury’ cannabis store Gotham opens in NYC

A new store opening in New York City aims to reinvent cannabis retailing.

Billed as New York’s first “luxury cannabis and cultural concept store,” Gotham is set to open its doors on the Bowery in downtown Manhattan. The two-story retail and gallery space sells cannabis, fashion and lifestyle items and also features art exhibitions. It was designed by Cinema Vitae.

Gotham said its offerings will include New York State's finest cannabis products, including flower, edibles, vaporizers, pre-rolls and tinctures. Additionally, the store will debut Gotham Goods, the company’s namesake line of CBD products and accessories.  

In addition to evolving the cannabis retail environment, Gotham said it brings back the quintessential in-person shopping experience to create community and connection, much like cannabis does.

"We wanted to create a space that was a first of its kind, uniquely downtown and differentiated from the local head shop,” said Billy Richards, chief creative officer, Gotham. Richards is a hospitality veteran and former director of NYC's famed Boom Boom Room and Rose Bar. “Gotham is a true concept store where visitors can discover something new, browse high-end brands and enjoy incredible art through a distinctive NYC lens. And, of course, we also sell cannabis.”

Gotham will feature a curated selection of retail, exhibits and happenings that reflect New York's cultural zeitgeist. The 2,800-sq.-ft. venue features an exhibition space that will display seasonally rotating shows featuring New York artists.

For its inaugural show, Gotham is partnering with Bright Moments to present an NFT gallery. The store will also feature a permanent installation by NYC-based multimedia artist Molly Lowe. 

Gotham was founded by entrepreneur and investor Joanne Wilson, whose track record includes early investments in high-growth consumer brands such as  Food52, Parachute and Sweet Loren's.

“Gotham is a reflection of New York's rich history and influence,” said Wilson. “We're proud to be one of the pioneers reimagining what the legalized cannabis market can become in the state.”

Gotham is partnering with Strive, a nonprofit which provides a pathway to life-changing careers for those who face societal barriers to economic empowerment and upward mobility — including those impacted by the justice system.

“Gotham is committed to creating systemic change through the power of jobs, education and opportunity for those that were formerly incarcerated for cannabis,” the company stated. “As a beneficiary the non-profit [Strive] will receive a portion of proceeds to fund their programs.

Strive has helped more than 85,000 individuals prepare for career success through employment programs geared toward adults, young adults, and those with involvement in the justice system.