Spotlight on Giving Tree Dispensary
03/22/24
In the growing and evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, Giving Tree Dispensary stands out, not only as a provider of medical and recreational cannabis, but as an example of empowerment and innovation. Founded by local entrepreneur Lilach Mazor Power, this woman-owned and operated business has a unique and inspiring approach, and an evolving partnership with Republic Bank of Arizona (RBAZ).
Origins of Giving Tree Dispensary
Lilach is from Israel and moved to Phoenix in 2006, working first in various aspects of the restaurant business. With roots in Israel, where there is a greater understanding of cannabis through research and medical legalization, she was inspired to learn more about the potential benefits of cannabis. That knowledge, coupled with her entrepreneurial spirit, prepared Lilach to pursue a career in the rapidly developing industry.
Lilach was awarded one of the first Arizona dispensary licenses in 2011, and she opened Giving Tree Dispensary in 2013. Today, Giving Tree is located at 701 W Union Hills Drive in Phoenix with its cultivation operations in the Deer Valley Airpark. Giving Tree’s vision extends beyond offering recreational and medical cannabis, it aims to cultivate a community centered around holistic well-being. Lilach’s goal is to create a safe and inviting environment that transcends the boundaries of a common dispensary. Her background in hospitality and knack for making people smile, bring a fresh perspective to cannabis retail and operations.
Setting Itself Apart
In an industry now filled with many big chain dispensaries, Giving Tree distinguishes itself through personalized care and service, focusing on building customer connections, and understanding their needs. By cultivating and manufacturing its own products, Giving Tree offers a range of options to meet those individual customer preferences and requirements. Giving Tree’s commitment to customer satisfaction and community engagement sets it apart from the competition, and makes Lilach, her employees and customers healthier and happier. The multiple kudos from customers are positive proof that the approach is working.
Finding Inspiration in Change
For Lilach, inspiration comes from multiple sources. First, she is motivated by the benefits Giving Tree provides its customers. Another inspiration comes from being a woman-owned business. Lilach aspires to demonstrate to other women what is possible — that women can own their own business, and if resilient, can succeed even in a male-dominated industry. She is also inspired by the opportunity to support her employees’ growth, while fueling passions for creating meaningful change.
Lilach seeks to change the perspectives and stigma surrounding the cannabis industry. For instance, many customers are professionals finding alternatives to traditional medication or recreational substances. The goals of Giving Tree extend beyond profit, and include challenging stereotypes, promoting acceptance, and reshaping societal attitudes towards cannabis.
Partnering with Republic Bank of Arizona
In their pursuit of growth and stability, Giving Tree Dispensary found a trusted partner in Republic Bank of Arizona. Not happy with her former bank because it, like most banks, tried to box them in, Lilach sought referrals to other banks from other companies in the Arizona Dispensaries Association. Ultimately, she was referred to RBAZ. From her first meeting in 2020 with RBAZ’s Frank Smith (SVP, Operations) and Brian Ruisinger (President & CEO), Lilach recognized that what RBAZ was offering was unique, personal service in the context of a trust relationship, much like her own business.
“I appreciate the ease of making things work banking with RBAZ. With every deposit or withdrawal, I’m greeted by name, and they consistently ensure my requests are promptly completed.” – Lilach Mazor Power.
Drawn to the personalized approach and commitment to understanding its unique needs, Giving Tree welcomes the seamless banking experience, and the genuine relationship forged with RBAZ. It also appreciates that there is room for growth through the potential for cannabis-lending options offered by RBAZ. The bank’s support has been and will be instrumental in navigating the intricacies of the cannabis industry and achieving her business goals.
Through its dedication to customer-centric values, commitment to innovation, and trusted partnership with Republic Bank of Arizona, Giving Tree exemplifies the potential for unique and positive change within the cannabis industry and beyond.