Following a survey in October where members voted in favour of developing a cannabis store at the Emporium site, Xatśūll is currently exploring options and researching the available business models.
To that extent, Cheryl Chapman, Economic Development & Employment Coordinator, met with Kirk Dressler, Director of Legal and Corporate Services at Williams Lake First Nation, to discuss their approach and experience with Unity Cannabis and their new first in Canada cultivation and distribution facility that is currently under construction.
Some of the main considerations include whether the Band would be looking to enter into a partnership or to become a franchisee, as well as which company to work with in that case or whether the Band wants to operate independently.
Due to the Reserve technically falling under Federal jurisdiction, as opposed to Provincial, there are also questions over which approach to take legally.
Another major consideration would be whether the Band would simply be looking to open a store or would want to develop a cultivation facility as well.
Other areas of examination include security, store layout and display rules, product acquisition, packaging, staffing and peak hours, licence fees, security clearances, insurance, costs, safety procedures, long-term development, training, quality controls and more.
Chapman is planning to have her findings presented to Chief and Council by the end of January 2021.
