JACANA opens first-of-its-kind wellness store at Princess Resorts in Hanover
Published:Friday | March 7, 2025 | 12:05 AMJanet Silvera/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Jamaica’s premier wellness brand, JACANA, which is highly revered for its innovative range of cannabis by-products, has taken a bold step into retail with the recent opening of its first storefront at the new Princess Resorts in Hanover.
The new retail space, situated at the ‘Princess Senses The Mangrove’, marks a significant milestone for the brand, which is celebrated not only for its high-quality products but also for its holistic approach to wellness, a philosophy that is reshaping perceptions around cannabis and medicinal botanicals in Jamaica and beyond.
Speaking at the grand opening, JACANA’s chief executive officer, Alexandra Chong, who has been instrumental in managing the brand’s hotel and spa partnerships, highlighted the remarkable integration of their products into Jamaica’s thriving wellness scene.
“We have 90 different hotel spas around the island incorporating our treatments,” explained Chong. “From deep tissue and sports massages to relaxing spa rituals, our CBD oil is even used in a tea ritual here in Jamaica to relieve tension in the body and ready clients for healing.”
Chong expressed pride in representing a brand that is changing the narrative, noting that while many people still associate wellness solely with ganja, JACANA is holistic, offering a diverse range of medicinal and therapeutic products.
She also outlined the company’s ambitious growth, revealing that JACANA is not only expanding its presence in Jamaica but also internationally, with operations in the United States, the United Kingdom, and beyond.
“We’ve had to raise significant private capital to get to where we are today,” she said, emphasising that traditional banks have not been an option for this privately funded venture. The investment has fuelled the brand’s expansion, enabling it to enter new markets and partner with renowned hotels and resorts worldwide.
A key element of JACANA’s identity is its deep connection to Jamaica’s natural resources. At the store launch, Chong showcased some of the brand’s signature products, including a premium lemongrass extract, grown on their own farm in the mountains of St Ann, highlighting that every ingredient is 100 per cent grown and made in Jamaica.
INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS
She also introduced innovative products like an intimacy oil, designed to support women during menopause, and specialised CBD drops aimed at alleviating arthritis pain and inflammation.
“We even have a product developed from lemongrass, which not only serves as a natural insecticide but also incorporates vital cannabinoids that provide therapeutic benefits,” she said, while noting that JACANA prefers the terms “cannabis” over “marijuana”, rejecting the negative connotations associated with the latter term.
As JACANA continues to redefine wellness tourism by merging ancient practices with modern science, the opening of this retail store is set to provide a seamless experience for both local and international consumers.
With its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, JACANA is proving that Jamaica’s rich natural heritage is not only a source of national pride but also a driving force behind global wellness trends.
Senator Aubyn Hill, minister of industry, investment and commerce, who delivered a brief yet enthusiastic address at the event, lauded the vision and execution behind JACANA’s pioneering wellness venture.
“Jack (Brockway) and Alexandra have built a remarkable business that embodies joy, peace, and passion,” said Hill, highlighting the CBD enterprise’s innovative approach to turning once-taboo subjects into a thriving industry. He also commended the team’s marketing prowess and strategic investment, noting that their efforts have not only advanced the CBD business but also showcased the immense potential of Jamaica’s natural resources.
Hill also praise the collaborative spirit behind the project, congratulating both the JACANA team and Princess Resorts for their role in making this venture a reality.
“Your outstanding work and the fantastic investment made by your team are truly impressive,” said Hill, in inviting everyone to experience their cutting-edge products, like the grapefruit-infused skin treatment, which he described as wonderful both in scent and effect.
“I’m happy to support this business, whether it’s in the store or even on the farm,” he continued, while reinforcing his commitment to nurturing Jamaica’s emerging wellness industry.