[PRESS RELEASE] – NEW YORK, Oct. 19, 2026 – Ascend Wellness Holdings Inc., a multistate, vertically integrated cannabis operator and consumer packaged goods company, announced the opening of Ascend of Evesham, a new adult-use cannabis dispensary located at 601 Route 70 in Marlton, N.J.
Through an agreement permitted under New Jersey law that facilitates expanded investment opportunities for diversely owned businesses in the cannabis industry, Ascend of Evesham will operate independently, with Ascend providing operational support and resources along with local entrepreneur Michael Santana. Oct 20 marks the soft opening of the new storefront, with a grand opening planned for Oct. 23, 2026.
Ascend of Evesham is owned and operated by Michael Santana, a lifelong New Jersey resident, minority business owner and participant in Ascend's social equity partnership program. Santana brings extensive operational and leadership experience to this new endeavor, having built his career in the construction industry. He also volunteers at expungement clinics across New Jersey, helping individuals navigate the record-clearing process and access new opportunities.
"Opening Ascend of Evesham is the culmination of years of hard work, learning and believing in the potential of this industry," Santana said. "As someone who has built a business from the ground up, I understand the importance of creating opportunities, serving customers with integrity and investing in the community. My goal is to make Ascend of Evesham a trusted destination for cannabis consumers while creating a positive impact here in Marlton and throughout South Jersey."
"Michael's entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to his community and dedication to building opportunities for others make him an ideal partner," said Danielle Drummond, vice president of social equity at Ascend. "Through our social equity partnership program, we aim to help entrepreneurs access the tools, training and support needed to succeed in this industry. Michael has demonstrated the leadership, determination and operational excellence needed to build a thriving business, and we are proud to support him as he opens Ascend of Evesham."
Ascend of Evesham offers a curated selection of cannabis products from leading brands, including Ascend's award-winning portfolio Ozone, Simply Herb, High Wired, Honor Roll and Effin', in a welcoming retail environment focused on education, accessibility and customer service. The dispensary will operate daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. A grand opening celebration is planned for Oct. 23, 2026, and will feature promotions and in-store activations.
For more information on Ascend of Evesham, visit: https://letsascend.com/stores/marlton-new-jersey/info
Ascend's CO-LAB for Social Equity program focuses on restorative justice, economic empowerment and community reinvestment. CO-LAB has also supported mentorship, education and funding for aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. By fostering inclusivity and supporting community-driven initiatives, Ascend aims to help create pathways to success for minority-owned businesses.
For more information on CO-LAB and its initiatives, visit https://letsascend.com/co-lab-for-social-equity/.
