Housed in a historic Industrial Revolution-era building, FloraMedex’s combination of warm nostalgic charm and well-trained patient-care specialists make it one of Illinois’s premier dispensaries.
Located in Elmwood Park, Illinois, FloraMedex has been dubbed, “Illinois’s premiere medical marijuana dispensary.” Once inside, the sobriquet rings true: The industrial loft-style, upscale urban architecture combined with an impressive group of medical professionals including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, hospice care, nursing home, and medical billing specialists, is a winning formula in a state still trying to find its footing when it comes to medical marijuana.
“The design aesthetics are unique in comparison to other shops in the industry,” said Anthony Carpino, agent-in-charge and principal owner. “State officials, cultivators, and patients have routinely expressed their opinion that our facility is one the most unique and appealing environments in the industry.”
Old buildings provide a sense of patriotism, feelings of warmth, and hominess, reminding us all of our history and heritage. So, I made the decision to utilize as much of the original materials as possible. During construction, signage from the original building occupant was uncovered. I instantly knew this should remain untouched and used as wall art in our lounge area. — Anthony Carpino, principal owner
Sales say as much. Revenue has increased by 8 percent per month since opening the dispensary opened in April 2016. However, growth in the industry will continue to be tied to patient enrollment within the state. Carpino, 41, said Illinois expects to double its patient count within the year, which should increase FloraMedex’s incremental growth month to month. Sounds like a ripe opportunity for expansion.
“We’re always open to new opportunities,” Carpino said.
“Our building was built during the Industrial Revolution,” said Carpino. “It was originally used as a millwork, then as a tool and dye shop, so the design focus was centered around a sense of history and Americana culture. Old buildings provide a sense of patriotism, feelings of warmth, and hominess, reminding us all of our history and heritage. So, I made the decision to utilize as much of the original materials as possible, including the 100-year-old wood materials. During construction, signage from the original building occupant, Acme Manufacturing Company, was uncovered. I instantly knew this should remain untouched and used as wall art in our lounge area. I also incorporated and repurposed the shelving and tool boxes from the building’s second and longest occupant, Johnson Tool & Dye. These elements all add to the historic look and feel.”
Vibe
“Overall, I feel it captures the essence of the time. Our design is not only sustainable and environmentally friendly, but also creates an aesthetically pleasing and uniquely warm ambiance,” said Carpino.
“Our patient-care specialists go through sixteen hours of training prior to serving any patients,” said Carpino. “Plus, they have eight hours of continuing education every quarter.”
Inventory management
“We use Bio-Track as our inventory management system and point-of-sale software. Inventory audits are performed twice daily in conformance with the Illinois state law,” said Carpino.
Motto
“As Dr. Andrew Weil said, ‘You can’t afford to get sick, and you can’t depend on the present healthcare system to keep you well. It’s up to you to protect and maintain your body’s innate capacity for health and healing by making the right choices in how you live.’”
Clientele
“Women between the ages of 40 and 60,” said Carpino. “The majority are afflicted by fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and varying forms of cancer.”
FloraMedEx
7955 West Grand Avenue
Elmwood Park, Illinois 60707
(708) 452-7688
