Marley Natural, a renowned cannabis brand founded in collaboration with the Marley family, has recently expanded its presence in the U.S. Virgin Islands with the opening of a new store on St. Thomas. This addition follows the successful launch of its first location on St. Croix in October 2022.
The St. Thomas store, which opened in July 2024, marks the second Marley Natural location in the USVI and only the third globally, with the original store located in Kingston, Jamaica. The new store is situated across from Havensight, an area known for its high tourist traffic, and aims to cater to both locals and visitors by offering a diverse range of products and a unique reggae-themed experience.
Brian Blaschka, the owner of Marley Natural, expressed his enthusiasm about the expansion. “I am very proud,” he said, reflecting on his long-standing connection with the Marley family and his appreciation for the opportunity to work with them. Blaschka first met Damian and Julian Marley as a fan when they were teenagers and has since built a career intertwined with the Marley brand. “I live in St. Croix — I love the V.I. and Marley brand. It’s a perfect combination,” he added.
Marley Natural initially began as a cannabis brand, offering various products including accessories, clothing, and CBD items. The USVI stores feature a broad array of products, including bicycles, tea, coffee, and other Marley-branded merchandise. Despite the presence of CBD and cannabis products in their inventory, Marley Natural operates as a lifestyle store not as a dispensary.
Cannabis regulations in the U.S. Virgin Islands are evolving. Blaschka noted that while the USVI is still developing its regulatory framework, Marley Natural is working closely with the Licensing and Consumer Affairs Department to ensure compliance and foster a positive relationship with the Virgin Islands government. “We want to be good partners and stewards with the government,” he said. Blaschka also voiced support for full cannabis legalization, citing the potential medical benefits and economic opportunities such as taxation and funding for local schools.
The history of cannabis in the United States is marked by significant legal and social shifts. The plant was first criminalized in the 1930s, partly influenced by efforts to undermine its competition with alcohol. Despite its controversial past, cannabis legalization has gained momentum over recent decades, driven by both medical research and shifting public attitudes.
Marley Natural emphasizes community engagement and cultural integration. On St. Thomas, the store will feature a “puff in paint” event space designed for private parties, meetings, and social events, including opportunities for local artists to showcase their work. Blaschka mentioned the aim to involve local artists and vendors, reflecting a commitment to community involvement similar to that established on St. Croix.
Marley Natural also supports local initiatives, including a partnership with Ruff Start and the St. Croix Animal Welfare Center to provide CBD products for pets. This aligns with the brand’s broader goal of integrating into the local community.
Blaschka encourages feedback from the community and invites local artists and vendors to contribute to the store’s offerings. He also highlighted the store’s involvement in local media through their radio show, “Mystic Hour,” and their sponsorship of the “Monday Marley” show on Tropics radio.
As Marley Natural continues to expand and adapt, the brand remains focused on its core values of community involvement and cultural celebration while navigating the evolving landscape of cannabis regulation and public perception.
