In 2023, five dispensaries in Big Rapids closed and two more opened for a total of 15 in the 4.5-mile city.
Big Rapids currently does not have a cap on how many active dispensary licenses are available in the city.
Dispensaries, also known as provisioning centers, are defined as storefronts that sell cannabis products. What products they sell depends on the location, but they generally sell flower, vapes, concentrates and edibles or drinkables.
Justin Vance, 46, of Hersey frequents many of the dispensaries in Big Rapids.
Vance has been to many of the dispensaries that have closed in the area and says prices are a big reason why he thinks they’ve closed.
Timber Cannabis, located across the street from Ferris’ main entrance. Photo credit: Jordan Wilson, Multimedia Editor
“They weren’t competitive enough,” Vance said, “I think everything is so cutthroat and the margins are so thin that there’s no room for mistakes.”
When choosing a dispensary, Vance said there are many things he looks for. These include prices, available brands and the environment.
Vance mainly uses these products for medicinal purposes and has a medical marijuana card. Many of the dispensaries in Big Rapids and surrounding areas have stopped selling medicinal