Cannabis business transforms prominent Absecon corner

What was once a deteriorated, long-abandoned True Value building in Absecon has been reborn through the vision of Red Oak’s founders. They set their sights on bringing a premium cannabis experience home to the New Jersey and Atlantic County community.

Their vision was larger than simply opening a dispensary — it was to create a destination. The new Red Oak headquarters spans over 14,000 square feet, featuring a cGMP ISO-8 certified manufacturing clean room and a modern retail experience that stands out for its design, landscaping and welcoming energy. Every detail, from the building’s architecture to the natural exterior upgrades, was planned to reflect community pride and local revitalization — part of more than $7 million in neighborhood improvements.

Inside, visitors will find Red Oak Dispensary (Suite A), an elevated retail space focused on the customer experience. Behind the glass viewing window lies Red Oak Cannabis (Suite B), a state-of-the-art cannabis production facility where products are crafted with care and transparency. Suite C completes the experience with ROC n Roll Smoke Shop, offering accessories and lifestyle products that round out the brand’s ecosystem.

Red Oak’s founders have a simple but powerful goal: to build a clean, honest and community-rooted brand that represents the positive side of cannabis culture. Every customer who walks through the doors should have a unique and welcoming experience. The team’s vision is to connect people — through partnerships with local and national organizations, community events and shared advocacy for responsible cannabis use.

Beyond its social impact, Red Oak Cannabis contributes directly to the city and state through tax revenue generated from both retail and manufacturing sales, supporting Absecon’s local economy and public initiatives. The project will also create over 30 local jobs with plans to grow employment as operations expand.

Sustainability is woven into the company’s values, reflected in their “Go Green” initiatives within the building and through their ongoing partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, planting trees around the world for every Red Oak Cannabis product sold.

Red Oak invites the community to celebrate its Grand Opening Festival on Saturday, Nov.1, from 12–4 p.m. — featuring food trucks, local vendors, giveaways and live entertainment. Visit their Instagram @redoakdispensary for more information.

Red Oak represents more than redevelopment — it’s a rebirth for Absecon, blending innovation, transparency and community pride into one shared vision for growth.