In a significant move that underscores the rapid growth of the cannabis industry in Illinois, 4Front Ventures Corp. (CSE: FFNT) (OTCQX: FFNTF), a leading multi-state cannabis operator and retailer, has announced ambitious plans to expand its footprint in the state. The company, known for its vertically integrated operations, has reached two critical milestones that promise to reshape the cannabis market landscape in Illinois.
The first milestone is the activation of electrical power at 4Front’s flagship facility in Matteson, Illinois. This 250,000-square-foot facility is an example of the company’s growth and a pivotal development in Illinois’ cannabis industry. As one of the state’s largest cultivation and manufacturing centers, the Matteson Facility boasts approximately 250,000 square feet of cutting-edge production space. It incorporates innovative and energy-efficient technologies such as DLC-certified
LED lighting, advanced HVAC systems, and fully automated irrigation and fertigation systems.
Phase I of the facility offers around 43,000 sq. ft. of flowering canopy, which is about five times the size of 4Front’s current flowering canopy in Illinois. This capacity is expected to scale to over 67,000 sq. ft. to meet increasing demand for 4Front products. Moreover, the facility includes over 70,000 sq. ft. dedicated to manufacturing, featuring automated production lines for packaged flower and pre-roll manufacturing, an edibles kitchen, and a comprehensive extraction laboratory. This setup supports 4Front’s product needs and offers robust private-label and toll-processing programs.
The second milestone is the anticipated opening of 4Front’s third dispensary in Illinois, located in Norridge, by the end of the quarter. This expansion marks a significant step in strengthening the company’s retail presence in the state. The new Mission retail store in Norridge is strategically positioned in Cook County, in a highly visible retail area adjacent to popular big-box retailers and directly opposite a major regional mall, ensuring easy access and visibility.
Andrew Thut, Chief Executive Officer of 4Front, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating, “Our Matteson facility vastly expands our operational capabilities in Illinois, which will cement 4Front as a leading cultivator and manufacturer within the state.” He emphasized that the facility would allow 4Front to capture significant market share in one of the US’s most attractive cannabis markets. The company aims to deliver high-quality cannabis products that align with Illinois customers’ preferences, both now and in the future.
The expansion does not stop with the Norridge store. 4Front has ambitious plans to open additional stores in the vibrant Chicago area, including one in a sought-after shopping district and another in a high-traffic location with limited competition. The company’s ultimate goal is to operate a full footprint of 10 retail stores in Illinois by 2025, powered by its flagship facility in Matteson. This expansion will not only increase 4Front’s retail presence but also enable it to establish a significant wholesale channel.
4Front’s strategic expansion in Illinois reflects its commitment to delivering craft-quality cannabis at accessible price points through its Mission Dispensaries and partner dispensaries statewide. With these developments, 4Front is well-positioned to double its revenue in the next 12-18 months, cementing its status as a leader in the cannabis industry in Illinois and beyond.
