Recreational Marijuana Shop to Open in Tenino

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The first recreational shop in South Thurston County will soon open its doors, providing marijuana and marijuana-infused products to those 21 and older.

Manager of The Herbal Center Jeff Frias and employee Brendan Manning kept busy on Monday stocking shelves with inventory they received on Saturday. After a year and a half of planning, The Herbal Center, located on Wichman Street in Tenino, will open its doors on Wednesday during a soft opening.

Currently, the business is working with a processor out of Everett, but the business plans to expand to a few local processors once the system is better understood.

The overall goal for Frias is to provide a good quality product, paired with great customer service. With over 10 years of experience in customer service, the Centralia man wants to ensure his consumers are treated with respect, allowing a quick and convenient “in and out” experience. 

On Monday, although the shop was closed, locals came to the store in hopes of it being opened. Centrally located near Tumwater, Yelm and Centralia, Frias said, the location is convenient for those who do not have access to other recreational marijuana stores.

He said he choose the location because of how great the city of Tenino has been in accepting his business. Although it took time to secure a place with a landlord who was willing to let the business start, Frias said the zoning in the city was another reason he wanted to set up shop in Tenino.

“Everyone has been giving us the open arms and are just willing to work with us,” Frias said.

Not only will the shop offer various strains of recreational marijuana, but it will sell edibles, cartridges for vape pens, pipes, grinders and lighters.



“It’s like a mini convenience store, but we just happen to be selling marijuana and marijuana-infused products,” Frias said. 

In a year, he plans to obtain a medical endorsement, allowing the business to expand into the medical side of marijuana. 

The location has been secured according to regulations and has barred windows, an alarm system and a surveillance system. As customers walk through the front doors of the shop, a menu will be displayed on a television, showing the current specials the shop offers and what products it carries. 

The grand opening on Friday will yield a variety of deals including $10 grams and $10 joints. 

Although the manager never saw himself owning a marijuana business, he is excited about the future of the industry. Frias worked temporarily for a dispensary which introduced him to the developing field and the potential benefits of cannabis. He also has 25 years of experience with microbreweries.

“Not often do you have a chance to be a pioneer in any industry,” he said. “I’ve met some wonderful people.”