Petaluma, CA – December 10, 2024 – The City of Petaluma is excited to announce the selection of three operators to participate in the inaugural phase of its Retail Cannabis Pilot Program: Solful, Down Under Industries, and Farmhouse Artisan Market. This milestone marks a significant step in the City’s efforts to create a regulated and community-focused cannabis retail market.
From a total of nine applications, five teams were invited to participate in interviews based on their alignment with the City’s program goals, operational readiness, and potential community impact. Per the City Council’s adopted guidelines for the pilot phase of cannabis retail licensing, up to three businesses could be selected at this time.
Following an extensive evaluation process, Solful, Down Under Industries, and Farmhouse Artisan Market were chosen as the initial participants based on their demonstrated strengths, innovative approaches, and alignment with Petaluma’s vision for cannabis retail.
The selected operators exemplify a balanced mix of experience, community investment, and strategic vision:
Retail Expertise:
- Solful and Down Under Industries bring proven track records in cannabis retail, showcasing their ability to meet regulatory standards and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
- Farmhouse Artisan Market, while newer to cannabis retail, presented a solid and achievable business model backed by their years of expertise operating Petaluma’s existing community-focused cannabis delivery business.
Community Investment:
- Down Under Industries demonstrates deep local roots and a commitment to contributing positively to Petaluma’s economy.
- Solful’s success in neighboring communities highlights its potential to enhance Petaluma’s cannabis retail landscape with a focus on wellness and sun-grown products.
- Farmhouse Artisan Market, an established Petaluma business, has a history of community engagement, providing quality jobs, and fostering local partnerships.
Managed Growth:
By selecting three operators, the pilot program is positioned for measured growth, allowing the City to monitor implementation closely and ensure alignment with community expectations.
The selected operators will now proceed to secure cannabis retail licenses and obtain the necessary permits to develop their retail locations. As this is a pilot program, the City will carefully evaluate its progress and impact, engaging the community and City Council in discussions about potential program expansion in late 2025.
While three teams were selected at this time, the City acknowledges the strength and potential of all applicants. Applications from other qualified teams will remain on file and may be revisited in future phases of the program.
The Retail Cannabis Pilot Program represents an important opportunity to enhance the local economy and meet the needs of Petaluma’s residents. We are excited to welcome Solful, Down Under Industries, and Farmhouse Artisan Market to the Petaluma retail cannabis market and look forward to seeing their success.
For more information contact:
Ingrid Alverde, Director of Economic Development & Open Government
[email protected]; 707-778-4549